13. Extenuating Circumstances

Extenuating circumstances are defined by Queen Mary University of London as:

"Circumstances that are outside a student’s control and which may have a negative impact on a student’s ability to undertake or complete any assessment so as to cast doubt the likely validity of the assessment as a measure of the student’s achievement."

If you find yourself in this situation, you suggest that you think about applying for an Extenuating Circumstances (EC) claim. 

Extenuating circumstances are usually personal or health problems. Health problems include your emotional wellbeing and mental health, as well as your physical health. Extenuating circumstances do not include computer problems, misreading your exam timetable, planned holidays or events, or local transport delays.

Further guidance on what is considered valid extenuating circumstances is available here: Extenuating Circumstances: a guide for students

Reminders and further guidance about ECs will be sent to students throughout the academic year around each examination period.


Updated-02/09/2024