It is expected that you will attend your examinations at the time that they are scheduled. However, it is possible that circumstances outside of your control will mean that you require a variation to the time or venue of your examination.
The University of Otago can only allow a change to the time or venue very rarely, and only in exceptional circumstances that are clearly beyond your control and that are known about in advance. Approval for a variation from the University's Examination and Assessment Regulations is required.
What counts as exceptional circumstances
Applications for a variation are considered only where the circumstances meet established criteria, including:
- Bereavement within your immediate family
- Wedding of an immediate family member, or where you are part of the bridal party
- Serious illness or incapacity (of you or an immediate family member)
- Posting in the New Zealand Armed Forces, New Zealand Police, or Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Competing or participating as a national representative
- Competing or officiating at an international competition recognised by a fully constituted international governing body
- Trialling as a genuine contender for national representation (verified by a recognised national governing body)
- Attending or representing the University of Otago at a significant event approved in writing by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
- Religious commitments that prohibit sitting an examination on the scheduled date
Travel plans made before the examination timetable is released are not considered valid grounds for a variation. If you are planning to travel out of Dunedin at the end of semester, book your travel for after the examination period or wait until your timetable is confirmed.
In the case of a clash, where two examinations are scheduled at the same time, you will be contacted to rectify this. If you have not received any communication, contact AskOtago.
Submit your request for variation of exams application by:
- Summer School papers – 1 February
- Semester 1 papers – 1 May
- Semester 2 and full-year papers – 1 September
Variations cannot be considered at short notice for final examinations
Variations for special examinations
If you are applying for a variation for a centrally run special examination, submit your request as soon as you become aware that a variation is required or at least seven calendar days before the start of the examination.
Requests to sit an examination outside of Dunedin may not be able to be accommodated at short notice.
If your paper is not listed as centrally run, the special examination is managed by the department. Contact the department directly to discuss the examination date and whether a variation may be possible.
Further information