Special Consideration is the process by which the University of Otago seeks to ensure just and equitable treatment of students who suffer unexpected and significant impairment (for example, serious illness) in relation to assessment.
Special Consideration applies to internal assessment, final examinations, and special examinations and is governed by the University's Examination and Assessment Regulations.
There is no provision for Special Examinations outside the Special Consideration process.
If you are wanting to apply for Special Consideration based on medical impairment, you can obtain a copy of the Health Declaration Form online
Applications must be submitted within 5 calendar days of the last examination for which Special Consideration is sought.
Late applications cannot be submitted through eVision once this deadline has passed, and no applications are accepted after results are released.
There is a separate process to request Special Consideration for Health Science professional programmes (not including Health Sciences First Year).
When Special Consideration may apply
Special Consideration in final or special examinations may be available if you are:
- prevented from sitting an examination due to significant and unexpected impairment
- significantly impaired in your examination performance
- significantly impaired in your preparation for an examination within 14 days of the exam
Examples include serious illness or injury, severe psychological impairment, bereavement, critical personal circumstances, or other exceptional events beyond your control. Impairment must be both unexpected and significant and have a significant effect on your examination.
When Special Consideration does not apply
Special Consideration is not available for:
- missed lectures
- exam anxiety or pressure
- multiple exams close together
- low-level impairment
- circumstances known in advance of the exam period
- mistaking the exam time or date
- known or ongoing conditions (including chronic illness or disability), unless medical evidence confirms an unexpected exacerbation at the time of assessment
Special Consideration in internal assessment
Special Consideration for internal assessment is approved by the relevant Head of Department and is usually granted only where impairment is significant.
If you are concerned about impairment during an internal assessment, act early. Check your Course Outline for guidance and contact your course co-ordinator if you are still unsure.
For more information or help, contact AskOtago.
Further information
Information on applying for Special Consideration in Final Examinations
Guidance for assessing Special Consideration requests and other useful information can be found on the Student Administrations – Exams SharePoint site:
Staff who require assistance with processing Special Consideration applications in eVision can contact Student Administration:
Email examinations@otago.ac.nz