Special Consideration
Special Consideration
Students are urged to discuss any study problems they encounter with their lecturers, tutors, Student Adviser or mentor. Those experiencing study difficulties as a result of illness, accidents, or personal or financial problems should seek advice from the Academic Programs Manager as soon as possible, in case some action under the Special Consideration provision is necessary. Depending on the nature and seriousness of the problem, the Academic Programs Manager may suggest that students utilise University services such as the Student Counselling Service, the Disability Liaison Unit, the Language and Learning Skills Unit or the Financial Aid and Employment Office. Students may approach any of these Offices directly if they so wish. More detailed information about these services can be found via the Student Portal.
Applications for Special Consideration are made online via the Student Portal which also provides extensive information about this process, including details of the specific timelines that apply to the submission of Special Consideration applications and the accompanying paperwork.
Important notes:
This system is not to be used for application for assignment extensions or special/deferred examination requests. Assignment Extension requests should be submitted on the appropriate form according to set guidelines. Requests for special/deferred examinations should be directed to the Academic Programs Manager with supporting documentation provided.
Special Consideration applications are considered by the Faculty at the end of the examination period, with decisions applied retrospectively.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your application, you may make an appointment to see the Academic Programs Manager. Special consideration is highly confidential and access to the information you provide is restricted.
Please do not approach an individual lecturer or examiner: there are strict rules against communicating with examiners about their duties.
Special Consideration in Practical Examinations
Special consideration is based on your performance at the regularly scheduled examination: it does not include the deferral of a practical examination.
Unless you are physically prevented, by injury, from being able to attend the practical examination, you must proceed, and the matter of special consideration will be considered by the Board of Examiners afterwards.
Students from Non-English Speaking Backgrounds
When time permits, all academic staff are happy to explain to students concepts unfamiliar through lack of English. However, the Academic Board of the University has determined that Special Consideration cannot be granted to students on the grounds of disadvantage in their academic studies because of insufficient competence in English arising from their non-English speaking backgrounds. As a result, the Faculty of Music is not able to grant extra reading time in examinations or provide additional tutorial assistance in assignments to such students.