Deferral of Assessment

Instructions for students wishing to defer assessment of a postgraduate module due to Extenuating Circumstances

Postgraduate Taught students may apply for permission to defer any part of the assessment for a module or modules on grounds of illness or other acceptable causes (Extenuating Circumstances) if they are unable to submit the assessment by the submission deadline (for part-time students, work commitments may be considered as an appropriate reason for deferral). If approved, such a candidate will not be regarded as having made an attempt at the module assessment on that occasion and will be expected to complete the assessment in either the summer vacation assessment period (if the assessment is available) or in the next academic year.

It is very important that you discuss any possible deferrals with your personal and/or module tutor prior to applying. They will be able to advise if this is the best course of action for you in your circumstances. They will also be able to agree with you the most suitable time to defer the assessment to.

Deferral of assessment applications are made via the Extenuating Circumstances application process. Full details are available here. Where you are requesting a deferral, you are permitted to apply in advance of the original assessment date/submission date.

When making your application only tick the box to apply to defer once you have discussed this with your department and have agreed when you will be able to submit your work or take the assessment - you will need to indicate on the form when you have agreed to submit/undertake the assessment.

The following FAQs may help you when considering making an application to defer assessment.

QUERIES ABOUT DEFERRAL

In the first instance you should discuss your options for deferral with your Personal Tutor.

Queries about completing your application can be sent to

ECs@royalholloway.ac.uk

How do I apply for a Deferral of Assessment?

You need to complete the PGT Extenuating Circumstances Form. You will need to remember to indicate, when asked, that you are applying for a deferral and to indicate when you wish to defer your assessment to. You will need to be able to show that particular circumstances have prevented you from undertaking the assessment in the current academic year. Suitable evidence will need to be provided. Full details about how to apply for Extenuating Circumstances and the evidence required is available on the Extenuating Circumstances pages.

When can I defer assessment to?

Assessment will usually be deferred to the next available opportunity to take the assessment. This may be the Summer Vacation Assessment Period (SVAP), where available, or the next academic year. You should discuss with your course tutor when you will be able to take the assessments. You will be asked to provide the agreed deferal period on the application form.

How long can I defer for?

You can defer assessment for up to one academic year.

How will my application be processed?

Your application will be assessed by the Extenuating Circumstances (EC) Committee and your School/Department Assessment Boards will be notifiied of applications for deferal that have been accepted.

When will i hear if my application has been successful?

You will be notified by letter to your university email account on the dates given on the Deadlines and Forms page

I'm an Undergraduate Student - can I apply for a Deferral of Assessment?

Deferral of assessment is not available to Undergraduate students, only students on Postgraduate Taught courses. If you are an Undergraduate student who has experience Extenuating Circumstances please refer to the information available on the Extenuating Circumstances pages.