Deferral of Assessment (from 2024/25)

Instructions for students wishing to defer an 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 (SV-AP) (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.

Please only select deferral on your application form 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 an 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 submit an Extenuating Circumstances application for the affected assessment. 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 provide an explanation about how your circumstances have prevented you from undertaking the assessment in the current academic year. You will not need to provide evidence. Full details about how to apply for Extenuating Circumstances is available on the Extenuating Circumstances pages.

When can I defer an assessment to?

Assessments will usually be deferred to the next available opportunity. This may be the Summer Vacation Assessment Period (SV-AP), 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 an 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 will be notified of applications for deferal that have been accepted. Your School will need to confirm that the deferral can be approved.

When will I hear if my application has been successful?

You will be notified via your university email account once your school have confirmed that the deferral can be approved.

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 experienced Extenuating Circumstances please refer to the information available on the Extenuating Circumstances pages.