We know how important your studies are to you and we want to help you to succeed whilst making sure you get the most out of student life. Students' Union UCL is here to support you throughout your time at UCL.
We've put together some handy advice to help you understand UCL's policies and procedures for when things don't go to plan or if you need to go through a formal process:
What do I do if I've been accused of taking unauthorised material into an exam or of plagiarising an essay?
Whether accidental or otherwise, being accused of misconduct or plagiarism can be extremely worrying. The Advice Service can advise you on the relevant regulations, support you to respond to the allegation and attend meetings or hearings with you if needed.
What do I do if something goes wrong or changes, and this has an affect on my studies?
Life is full of unexpected surprises and unfortunately, not all are good. If something happens that could significantly affect your performance, UCL will take it into consideration if it is something that you can evidence and if you inform them at the right time. We can advise you on what might qualify as extenuating circumstances and how you should go about informing your department.
Usually if you're experiencing a more minor issue that isn't covered by the Extenuating Circumstances procedure, and need some flexibility with your studies, you can instead use UCLs Delayed Assessment Scheme. This is new for the 2024/25 academic year.
How do I interrupt my studies and what are the implications?
There are a variety of reasons that a student may need to take a break from their studies. Often, it is because of health and wellbeing issues, but may also be for parental or caring responsibilities, as well as many other reasons. We can help you decide whether or not to interrupt and guide you through the process if you do.
How do I make a complaint?
If you are unhappy with an element of your experience at UCL, you can submit a complaint. As a part of the Union, which is an independent organisation, the Advice Service can help you throughout the complaints procedure.
Find out more about the Office of the Independent Adjudicator - who can review your complaint if you've completed UCLs processes but are not satisfied with the outcome.
How do I appeal my grades?
You can't challenge your results because you are disappointed with your performance, and you believe your work deserves a better mark. However, you can submit an Academic Appeal to request a review of a Board of Examiners decision (they make decisions on assessment outcome, student progress and award) if you have evidence that:
- You had circumstances which significantly affected your academic performance, and you could not tell UCL about these at the appropriate time
- There was a material irregularity (an administrative or procedural error) that significantly impacted your performance, and it had not been determined before a Board of Examiners
- One or more of the examiners were biased or prejudiced against you in one or more specific assessments
Find out more about how you can make an Academic Appeal and how to write an Academic Appeals Form.
What is UCL's Disciplinary Procedure?
UCL has a code of conduct, which all of its students are expected to adhere to. If you have been found to/alleged to be in breach of the code, UCL may begin a disciplinary process. The Advice Service can support you through disciplinary action or help you challenge it where appropriate.
I'm worried about something else
That's ok. Whether it's concerns about your course, troubles with group work or something completely different, we're here to help. Arrange to see one of our advisers, who will be able to offer support whatever your concerns.
If you're a student whose first language isn't English, we can also help you through our Language + Writing Support Programme, which can help with checking and refining your written work.
Find out more here.