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Problems

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If things don’t go so well, or you have problems on the day, don’t panic! There is advice and support available, no matter what the problem. Some of the more common questions we’re asked are dealt with below, but don’t forget that a Just Ask adviser (bristolsu-justask@bristol.ac.uk) can chat through your options with you if you are worried.

+ I had a tough time during the exam period

Click here to see our advice on what to do if your exam performance was affected by personal matters.

  • If you think your performance in the exam(s) was affected by personal matters (for example, illness or bereavement), it is really important that you submit extenuating circumstances to your School as soon as possible, so that they can be considered by the University before the relevant exam board meets.
  • At the latest, you should submit extenuating circumstances within two working days of the last assessment you complete in the assessment period which is affected.
  • Extenuating circumstances have to be submitted in writing: just having a chat with your personal tutor isn't enough. Check with your School whether there is a special form for you to fill out.
  • For more information on submitting extenuating circumstances, take a look at our guide. For guidance on how to submit, speak to a Just Ask adviser.
  • Don’t forget – you will need to make sure that the extenuating circumstances you submit need to cover every exam you consider was affected by your problems.

+ I was ill on the day of my exam and couldn’t go!

Click here for advice on what to do if you were sick on the day of the exam and couldn't attend.

  • You must tell your School as soon as possible if you're unable to attend an exam - for whatever reason. Ask them to tell you what information or form you need to submit. 
  • If there is a medical reason for you missing the exam, try to see a doctor on the day of the exam and get a doctor's sick note as soon as possible. 
  • This also applies if you have to leave during an exam because of illness. If you do have to leave, make sure you tell the invigilators and ensure they record this as an incident. 
  • If you have missed an exam you must complete and return an Extenuating Circumstances form (see above)

+ I’m really worried I’ve failed...

Click here for advice on what to do if you're concerned that you failed your exam.

  • Don’t panic! It’s really difficult to judge how you got on until you have your results. Try not to dwell on how you think you did.
  • When you get your results, take on board any feedback and think about how you can improve going forward.
  • If you have failed, you should be told if you have the option of re-sitting any failed units. If you’re concerned about the information you’re given by the University - or don’t understand what it means, you can speak to a Just Ask adviser.

+ I’ve been accused of cheating in the exam – help!

Click here for advice on what to do if you have been accused of cheating during an exam.

  • If you are accused of cheating in an exam, we strongly recommend that you speak to a Just Ask adviser. Please keep copies of any correspondence you receive from the University, and show this to the adviser. This helps us to help you!
  • Take a look at the University’s Examination Regulations – this will help you to understand what happens next.

+ I’m not happy with my results

Click here to see what to do if you aren't happy with your exam results.

Speak to your tutor to get some feedback and help you to understand why you got the grade you did.
  • You can appeal against decisions made by the board of examiners regarding your exam (for example, your grade). You have 15 working days from the date you’re notified of your grade to appeal against it.
  • The University will only consider appeals which are brought under the reasons for appeal specified in their Examination Regulations: you can’t just appeal because you think you should have got a better grade!
  • If you want to appeal, we strongly recommend that you speak to a Just Ask adviser as soon as possible.