15. Extenuating Circumstances

15.4. Self-certification

What Is Self-Certification?

Self-certification allows students to submit an Extenuating Circumstances (EC) claim without documentary evidence, based on personal circumstances that have affected their ability to complete assessments.

Key Rules and Limitations

  • You may submit up to two self-certified EC claims per academic year, and only one during any examination period.
  • Each self-certification can cover a maximum of seven calendar days.
  • You cannot submit consecutive self-certification claims (i.e. two back-to-back seven-day periods).
  • You cannot normally use self-certification more than once for the same assessment.
  • A single self-certification claim may cover multiple assignments, provided all deadlines fall within the same seven-day period.

Important Notes

  • Self-certification does not guarantee approval. Each claim is reviewed by the School to ensure it meets the criteria outlined in Queen Mary’s Extenuating CircumstancesPolicy.
  • Any claims beyond the permitted self-certifications must be submitted as a standard EC claim, with supporting evidence (see Section 14.1).

Further Guidance

For more information on self-certification and EC claims, please refer to:
Extenuating Circumstances: A Guide for Students