1. Evidencing Mitigating Circumstances Wing Chow Academic Quality Manager

2. Definition at BU
Short-term, sudden and/or unforeseen events or circumstances which can be proved to have significantly and adversely impacted a student’s ability to study or to complete one or more assessment(s)
beyond the control of the student
are not already registered with BU’s Additional Learning Support (ALS) service
An illness (including mental health)
Pregnancy / pregnancy-related illness
Illness of a close family member
Bereavement
Unforeseen travel disruption
Acute personal difficulties / Domestic disruption
Jury Service

3. Evidencing the unexpected
Nature of the circumstances
Impact on the student
‘Lateness’

4. Things that might help
Self certification for short term absences and illness
Opportunities for students to share information
Formal process for considering mitigating circumstances
Policies for student wellbeing; fitness to study
Student support services
Academic appeals

5. Further thoughts Purpose of policy for mitigating circumstances
Student experience
What happens when the policy doesn’t fit?
When is it too late?