Special consideration and assessment extensions
Here's what you need to know if life gets in the way and you can't meet a deadline.
Every now and then, you might come across an event outside of your control which interferes with your ability to submit an assessment on time or sit an exam on the scheduled date. The University understands this and has processes in place which you can pursue if you need an extension or special consideration. If you need to apply for an extension or special consideration, it is important that you do so no later than 11.55pm on your assessment’s due date and seek the right option for your assessment and circumstances. Read on to work out which pathway is best for you.
Short extensions
You may be eligible for a short extension (two calendar days). If it is your first application for a short extension for that particular unit, you will not be required to give a reason or provide supporting documents.
However, short extensions are not available for group assessments, in-class tests/assessments (including presentations), practical assessments (including laboratories), mid-semester tests or scheduled final assessments.
Importantly, applications for short extensions must be submitted by 11:55pm on the due date of your assessment. Late applications for short extensions will not be accepted. However, late special consideration may still be possible under certain limited circumstances (outlined below).
Special consideration
If your circumstances are such that you may need more than two days or the assessment is not applicable to a short extension, you may want to apply for special consideration.
You may be considered eligible for special consideration for the following reasons:
- medical condition (including COVID-19)
- mental health condition
- loss or bereavement
- family (relationship breakdown)
- victim of crime or concerns about safety
- financial/employment issues
- military, jury or emergency services obligations
- obligations as athlete, artist or performer registered with Elite Student Performer Scheme or as representative of University in other key events and programs
- religious or cultural obligations
- technical disruption
- other exceptional circumstances beyond your control.
Definitions of each of these categories can be found on the University website here.
However, you will not be considered eligible for things like losing Moodle access, technical difficulties, mistaking the due date, etc. More on that here.
Special consideration applications also require students to attach supporting documents as evidence of their exceptional circumstances. Examples and definitions can be found here.
As with short extensions, applications for special consideration must be submitted by 11:55pm on the due date of your assessment. Late special consideration applications are still sometimes possible in extreme circumstances where a student has been unable to apply by the deadline (e.g. hospitalisation), but evidence of the extreme circumstances and incapacity must be included with the late application.
Do you have more questions?
Get in touch with an MGA advocate for free and confidential advice! We can help guide you through all your options for seeking extensions and special consideration. Email us at mga-advocacy@monash.edu - the sooner the better!