At the University of Western Australia (UWA), the Special Consideration process is designed to support students who experience unexpected and significant circumstances that adversely affect their academic performance. This system ensures that students facing challenges beyond their control—such as illness, injury, or personal hardship—can have their situation fairly assessed and accommodated.
What Is Special Consideration at UWA?
Special Consideration allows UWA’s schools and student offices to take into account serious factors that may have impacted your ability to prepare for or complete assessments. The university recognizes that students often balance complex life situations alongside their studies, and this policy aims to provide flexibility and fairness.
Who Is Eligible?
You may be eligible for Special Consideration if your studies have been disrupted by significant and unforeseen events such as:
- The death or serious illness of an immediate family member, household member, or close friend
- Serious injury or illness affecting yourself
- Being a victim of crime
- Breakdown of a relationship
- Sudden loss of income or employment
- Major disruption to your living arrangements
- Other substantial personal difficulties beyond your control
It’s important to note that certain situations do not qualify for Special Consideration, including pre-planned holidays, social events, routine work commitments, misunderstandings about deadlines or exam timetables, and technical issues like computer failures.
What Support Can You Receive?
If your application is approved, UWA may offer various forms of assistance depending on your circumstances, such as:
- Extensions on assignment deadlines
- Permission to withdraw from a unit without academic penalty
- Deferred examinations
- Alternative assessment arrangements or exemptions
These accommodations aim to minimize the impact of your difficulties on your academic progress while maintaining the integrity of university standards.
How to Apply and Important Considerations
Applications for Special Consideration should be submitted as soon as possible, ideally before the assessment due date or exam. However, UWA allows applications within three days after the due date if necessary. You will need to provide appropriate documentation, such as medical certificates or official statements, to support your claim.
UWA emphasizes honesty and integrity in this process. Recent reviews have highlighted concerns about misuse, including falsified medical certificates, prompting the university to tighten policies to ensure fairness for all students.
Special Consideration at UWA is a valuable resource for students encountering genuine hardships during their studies. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and types of support available, students can better navigate challenges and maintain their academic journey with confidence.