If you run into trouble beyond your control that affects your studies, it is your right to apply for special consideration. From time to time in our lives we all suffer from hardships that make doing exams or other assessment difficult. Monash University has recognised this and has a 'Special Consideration Policy'.

The policy says,
'A candidate whose work during a teaching period or whose performance in an examination or other assessment has been affected by illness or other serious cause may apply in writing for special consideration by the examiners or board of examiners…'

Basically, this means that if you have been seriously ill or have experienced major trauma throughout the semester or year, you can apply for Special Consideration. If you are having a problem during semester you should at least let your course advisor, lecturers, a counselor, the Chaplain or the Union know. Don't leave it until after you fail to get in touch with someone about a problem or problems you are having! No one can help if they don't know you are in trouble!

What are serious causes?
'Serious causes' is another way of saying really bad stuff like a death in the family, being a victim of crime or severe depression or anxiety.

The Special Consideration Policy says that 'serious causes' include:

1. Serious illness or psychological condition e.g. hospital admission, serious injury, severe asthma, severe anxiety or depression
2. Loss or bereavement e.g. death of a close family member or family relationship breakdown.
3. Hardship/trauma e.g. victim of crime, sudden loss of income or employment or severe disruption to domestic arrangements.

Each application is considered individually and can determine your overall grade in a subject. The decision lies with a combination of people, your tutor, your lecturer and Head of School might all be involved. The result might be an adjustment to your marks on a particular piece of work, your overall mark or simply the allowance to re-submit an assignment or re-sit an exam.

No two cases are the same, and the outcome depends on the strength of your application. There are no standard outcomes.
It is up to you to demonstrate why Special Consideration should be granted, so whatever possible written evidence should be included with your application. This might include a medical certificate, a counselor's report, an insurance claim, a police report, a letter from your religious or spiritual leader, a death notice or certificate or anything else, which will support your claim.
Never assume that your case is not worth it. If something beyond your control has prevented you from studying or performing effectively, apply for Special Consideration.

How do I apply?
Well its simple - all you have to do is:

1. Fill in an application form available from Monash University website and supply supporting documentation OR
2. Get help from MUGSU

You only have until 48 hours after your last scheduled exam to apply. If you need to apply for Special Consideration don't hesitate do it now!

Get the Special Consideration form at:
www.monash.edu.au/exams/special-consideration.html Contact the MUGSU Advocate and Student Support Coordinator if you need help.