Grade Appeal

The evaluation of academic work is the prerogative of the instructor and the rules for determining a final course grade should be established by the instructor and provided to the students in an electronic or printed course syllabus at the beginning of the semester. A student who believes grounds exist for the appeal of a final course grade must first consult with the instructor. If the appeal cannot be resolved, a student may proceed to the grade appeal process.

The procedures described in this policy are available only for appeal of a semester or term grade based on one or more of the following reasons:

  • There is a mathematical error in calculation of the grade or clerical error in recording of the grade that remains uncorrected.
  • The assignment of a grade to a student by application of more exacting requirements than were applied to other students in the course.
  • The assignment of a grade to a student on some basis other than performance in the course.
  • The assignment of a grade by a substantial departure from the faculty member’s previously announced standards.
  • There are extenuating circumstances such as illness, incapacity, or absences of the instructor that generate uncertainty regarding appropriateness of the grade assigned.

Grades given as a result of academic dishonesty cannot be appealed under the grade appeal procedure but should be made under the provisions of the Policy on Scholastic Dishonesty B7.13.7.

The procedures for submitting a grade appeal are available in the office of the Dean of Student Engagement and Retention.