Coursework extensions
Key information and process guidance for coursework extensions for undergraduate and postgraduate taught modules, except Postgraduate project and dissertation modules.
Who this guidance is for
This guidance is for undergraduate and postgraduate taught modules, except Postgraduate project and dissertation modules, which have a separate process.
When can I request an extension?
You may request an extension if circumstances beyond your control have an acute, short-term and temporary impact on your ability to complete your work to a comparable quality within the original deadline, and a short extension would reasonably address the impact.
Examples may include:
- A short period of illness or injury.
- Exacerbation of a disability (including mental health, neurodiversity and long-term health condition) which temporarily affects your studies.
- An unexpected personal or family emergency.
- A temporary disruption that significantly affects your ability to study.
The examples above are illustrative rather than exhaustive. Each request will be considered on its individual circumstances.
Extensions are not normally appropriate where:
- The impact is ongoing or likely to continue beyond a short period.
- Additional time would not sufficiently address the circumstances.
- The circumstances relate to foreseeable issues that could reasonably have been planned for.
- The issue results from poor time management or failure to back up work appropriately.
Key information about extensions
Extensions:
- Must be requested before the original submission deadline.
- Apply to individual assessments only.
- Are not normally available for group assessments or time specific assessments.
- Can only be granted once for a particular assessment component.
- Typically allow an extra 7 calendar days. This is the maximum extension period to support the timely operation of marking, moderation and feedback processes. Schools may exceptionally set a shorter period for academic or operational reasons. You may submit work before the revised deadline if you wish.
Further information
Regulation VII - Conduct of Examinations and other Assessments
How to request an extension
1. Submit an extension request
Complete the University's Extension Request Form below as soon as you become aware that you are likely to need additional time.
Important: If you submit your request within 2 working days of the original deadline and have not received a decision before the deadline, where possible submit any work you have completed. This will avoid a mark of zero if your extension request is declined.
If your request is approved, the extension arrangements and revised deadline will be applied and communicated to you.
What information will you be asked for in the request form?
The form is designed to gather the information needed to consider your request fairly and consistently.
Sections 1 and 2
You will be asked to provide:
- Your student registration number
- Your study level (Undergraduate or Postgraduate)
- The module code and title
- The specific assessment component for which you are seeking an extension.
Section 3
You will be asked to select the reason for your extension request from a list of categories. If none of the categories accurately reflects your circumstances, please select the 'Other' option.
- If your extension request relates to disability, a long-term health condition or a traumatic incident that you have already shared information about with Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity (SWAI), you are not required to re-explain your circumstances in the form but you can provide additional information if you want to.
- If the extension request is for another reason, you will be asked to provide a summary of the circumstances.
You should provide enough information for your circumstances to be understood, but there is no need to include unnecessary personal details. Evidence will not normally be required, however, the University reserves the right to request further information if concerns arise about the impact of your circumstances on your studies or wellbeing.
2. Receive the outcome
You will receive an email to your student account informing you of the outcome of your extension request. If accepted, you will be informed of your new submission deadline.
What if my extension request is not approved?
If your extension request is not approved, you will be notified by email and provided with information about the decision.
If you receive a rejection before the deadline, you should submit any work you have completed by the original deadline.
If circumstances beyond your control continue to affect your ability to complete or submit your work, you should seek advice from your School Admin Team as soon as possible. Depending on your circumstances, a mitigating circumstances claim may be more appropriate.
Do not wait until after the deadline to seek support. If you are concerned about your ability to submit, contact your School Admin Team as early as possible.
3. Submit by the new deadline
Submit your work using the original submission instructions unless you are advised otherwise.
Electronic submissions
For electronic submissions, go to the Learn submission page for this assessment component. Either your existing submission link will have been extended or you will have been provided with a new link to submit your work.
What if I can’t meet the extended deadline?
Do not delay - contact your School Admin Team immediately.
An extension cannot normally be extended further. If circumstances continue to affect your studies, you may be advised to submit a mitigating circumstances claim.