Grade Appeals

Students have the right to appeal a final grade if they believe that the grade calculation is inaccurate or that there is an inconsistency between the grade calculation and the grading criteria as defined by the instructor’s syllabus. Students have the burden of proof to demonstrate that the grade is inaccurate within the context of the course.

Grade appeals must be filed within 30 days of the last day of the class for which the grade was received. The grade appeal process is as follows:

1. The student submits a written appeal to the instructor clearly stating the reasons for believing that the grade was assigned in error.
2. The instructor changes the grade or replies in writing, explaining why the existing grade is appropriate.
3. If the student is not satisfied with the instructor’s response, then the student may submit a copy of the written appeal and the instructor’s response to the appropriate department chair or program director. If the instructor is the chair or program director, then the Dean or the Vice President for Academic Affairs serves in place of the chair. The department chair or program director receives all written materials relevant to the case and may request additional information. The department chair or program director then makes a written recommendation.
4. Either party may appeal the decision of the department chair or program director to the Dean or the Vice President for Academic Affairs, who will make a final recommendation in writing to the course instructor.
5. The course instructor has the final say as to whether the grade will be changed.