Appealing your Grade

The evaluation of a course is exclusively within the province of the teacher. Consequently, grade changes may be made only by that teacher or, under extenuating circumstances, by the Director of Studies upon the recommendation of the Examination Board. The Exam Board will be the final arbiter of a request for a grade change. If a student has concern about his/her grade, the student must follow the procedure that follows:
 
Step 1

The student is encouraged first to consult with the teacher concerning the disputed grade.

Step 2

If the complaint is not resolved through consultation with the teacher or if the student feels that the complaint may be resolved more appropriately without consulting the teacher, the student may contact the Director of Studies. The student should indicate the grade received in the course, the reason for the grade complaint, specific information on performance scores and attendance, and any syllabus or written material on course grading criteria that the instructor provided to the student. The Director of Studies shall keep all written statements, transcripts and minutes associated with the complaint as part of the files of the college.

Step 3

The Director of Studies shall investigate the student's written complaint. The investigation shall include a written response from the teacher listing the grade reported for the student, the evaluation criteria for the course, and the performance scores and attendance data achieved by the student in that course.

Step 4

The Director of Studies should inform the student regarding the nature of the written responses of the instructor and administrator(s) as well as the Director of Studies findings and conclusion. If the written response does not resolve the complaint to the satisfaction of the student, the student may petition the Exam Board for review.

Step 5

The decision of the Exam Board shall be final. Appeals or formal hearings shall not be provided.