Academic Rights: Extensions

Extensions are there for you as students when something unexpected happens. This will probably be a stressful time for you so ensuring you know the process before this happens, and know who to contact for help, is really important. Your personal tutor or course leaders may be able to offer you advice and our Advice Centre at the SU is always here to help you.

Should I apply for an extension?

• If you can’t meet an assessment deadline during your studies due to a short-term unforeseeable reason, you are eligible to apply for an extension.
• You are allowed two 2-working day extensions and two 5-working day extensions per academic year.

You won't be able to apply for an extension if:

• If it is more than five working days before the deadline
• Your assessment is exempt from extension (e.g. exams)
• You have already had all your permitted extensions for the academic year.

What about extenuating circumstances?

Extenuating circumstances are for when:

• You are able to meet a deadline but feel that your work has been substantially affected by circumstances out of your control
• If you are not able to make a deadline whether extended or not due to your circumstances
• You have reached the maximum number of extensions permitted per academic year but still have assessments affected by further personal circumstances
• Exams and coursework which is exempt from extensions are affected by your circumstances

Read more about applying for Extenuating Circumstances.

How do I request an extension?

Before you begin, remember:

• You cannot withdraw, amend or extend an extension application, and you have a limited number per academic year - so make sure you are certain you want to apply for one, and for how long.

The application process for extensions has been simplified, as you no longer have to submit evidence for your extension, and they are automatically approved by the extension system. Before you begin, make sure to read the FAQs on the Student Intranet.

When you are ready to apply:

• Go to Campus Connect, and find the "My Studies" tab
• The extensions application system is located there - you should find an online form to complete
• Ensure that you select the correct module you wish to apply for an extension for, and the appropriate length of time - 2 or 5 working days. If the module is not showing, and it is within five working days of the deadline, contact your school as there may have been an error.
• Briefly explain why you need an extension - all the information you provide is confidential.
• You should receive an outcome automatically within a few minutes, if you do not receive anything within a few hours contact the Extensions team.

Who should I talk to if I need help?

• Your personal tutor should be kept updated about anything affecting your studies. This way, they can make sure you have access to all the support you need.
• You can always directly access the University’s help and support services.
• We're here at the Advice Centre to help you navigate university processes and provide independent advice. Please contact us to speak to an advisor.