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Grieving a Grade or Academic Decision

Submit Grieving A Grade Form

A student who alleges an error or injustice in the grading process may present a formal grievance in writing to the instructor. Grading reflects careful and deliberate assessment of a student’s performance by the instructor and cannot be administratively altered. Grade disputes are best resolved between the classroom instructor and the student with a careful review of grades and discussion of concerns. When that is not possible, this procedure is provided to allow students an organized method to resolve their concern. 

No complaint challenging a grade may be initiated later than 25 calendar days following the day grades are posted by the Records Office.The word “days” means the business days Monday through Friday.The number of days indicated at each level is considered a maximum. The time limits may only be extended in extenuating circumstances by mutual agreement between the grievant and the person against whom the grievance is directed.

If the faculty member who assigned the challenged grade is no longer employed at the institution or is not contacted within the 25-day timespan, the student may present the complaint to the department chairperson. Please note: during the summer, faculty members are unavailable after commencement and grievances might not be addressed until the faculty member returns from summer break. This still obligates the student to register their grievance within the 25-day window.

Grounds For a Grievance: 

Students dissatisfied with teaching style or methods do not have grounds for an appeal, but may file a complaint with the appropriate department chair. 

Process: 

Student must attempt to resolve the grievance informally with the instructor and, if necessary, the department chair.

Students may withdraw their informal/formal complaints in writing before a hearing.