3. Extenuating Circumstances

This page summarises information from the Extenuating Circumstances Policy. Please refer to this for more detail. If there is any uncertainty the policy should be taken as the proper guide - it can be found on the Key Documents page.

What are extenuating circumstances?

If a sudden, unexpected, significantly disruptive event that is beyond your control interferes with your submission of an assessment, or impairs your performance, you may apply for Extenuating Circumstances. Successful application may result in a new deferred deadline being given (an 'extension'), a deferred examination, or else a note being made against your assessment mark.

For Extenuating Circumstances to be accepted you must be able to demonstrate that these circumstances are:

  • Outside your control
  • Unforeseen and unforeseeable
  • Serious
  • True
  • Happened either at the same time as the assessment due date or during the preparation period immediately before the assessment due date

And you must be able to provide evidence, normally an official document, signed as appropriate and stating the dates during which the circumstances applied. 

Note that for the first time in 2024-25 we are allowing EC applications with self-certification (i.e. without evidence) for deferrals of up to 3 days. However this is not automatic and a form must be completed. Also the normal rules for what counts and doesn't count as EC are the same. Follow the link below to access the form.

Examples of Extenuating Circumstances (EC)

  • Illness - serious enough to be covered by a doctor's note or other medical paperwork
  • Bereavement - close family or friends
  • Car accident or similar crisis

More examples are given in the table in the policy. Remember, you must be able to provide evidence of these events if your application is to be accepted. It must be in English and relevant to the period claimed.

What does NOT count?

  • Pressure of work
  • Failure to read exam timetable accurately
  • Cold
  • IT or printer issues

Key Information

  • EC will not alter marks.
  • However, EC may be considered by the Assessment Board in deciding on progression or awards.

How do I apply for Extenuating Circumstances?

You should apply using this online form. 

What happens if I am given Extenuating Circumstances?

A member of the Registry team will contact you by email to confirm your EC. 

If you are successful this will usually be that you are given a deferral of your assessment - either a new assessment date, or an opportunity to take an exam at another time. Alternatively, if you have submitted work that you wish EC to be considered for, this information will be considered by the Assessment Board.

For more information and details, please see the policy on the Key Documents page. Note that a new Policy will be issued for 2024-25.