University life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, circumstances beyond your control can impact your ability to complete assessments or perform at your best. The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) recognises these challenges and offers a structured special consideration process to ensure fairness and support for affected students.
What is Special Consideration?
Special consideration is a formal process that allows students to request assessment adjustments if they are significantly impacted by exceptional, unforeseen events outside their control. This support can apply to a wide range of assessments, including exams, essays, presentations, and participation requirements.
Who is Eligible?
You may be eligible for special consideration if you experience:
- Short-term illness (e.g., sudden flu or injury)
- Hardship or trauma (bereavement, family violence, accident)
- Religious observance that clashes with assessment dates
- Emergency service obligations
- Other extenuating circumstances that are unexpected and outside your control
For ongoing or long-term conditions, UniMelb also offers ongoing support and study adjustments, so you don’t have to reapply every study period.
What is Not Eligible?
Certain situations are not considered valid grounds for special consideration, such as:
- Computer or internet failures
- Public transport delays
- Personal events (weddings, birthdays)
- Minor ailments where you can still complete the assessment
- Travel plans or delays related to personal travel
- General or routine employment commitments
If your circumstance is not listed, you can still seek advice from student support services to clarify your eligibility
How to Apply
- Submit an Application:
Lodge your application as soon as possible—ideally within four working days of the assessment due date or when you become aware of the issue. - Provide Documentation:
Attach supporting evidence (medical certificates, statutory declarations, etc.). If there’s a delay in obtaining documents, submit a statement explaining the delay, and the university will hold your application for up to four business days. - Be Accurate:
You cannot change certain details (subject code, study period, impact date range) after submitting. If you need to amend these, submit a new application and reference your previous application ID. - Await Outcome:
The university aims to process applications within about six business days. You’ll receive a formal outcome—do not rely on informal advice from lecturers or coordinators.
What Happens Next?
- If Granted:
You may be offered a special assessment (e.g., supplementary exam, extended deadline). Your result will show an ‘SPE’ grade until you complete the assessment, after which your final mark is updated—usually within 10 working days. - If You Decline:
You can choose to decline a special assessment before it starts (for exams) or before the due date (for assignments). Your original grade will then stand. - If You Do Nothing:
Failing to complete or decline the special assessment results in a zero for that assessment1.
Final Tips
- Act Quickly: Apply as soon as your circumstances arise.
- Be Thorough: Provide all necessary documentation and details.
- Seek Advice: If unsure, contact student support or advocacy services for guidance4.