Student appeals

Southern Cross University is governed by Policies and Rules that support compliance with legislation.

Students have rights and responsibilities under these policies, including their right to appeal decisions that they believe to be incorrect or unfair.

There are different types of appeals, with varying processes and timelines. The University’s Student Advocacy Service provides free, independent support and advice to students who are considering appealing a University decision. Student appeals are different from feedback and complaints which can be from anybody, including members of the public. See the feedback and complaints page for more information about this, and how it’s dealt with by the University.

Appeal against a Final Grade

If you do not agree with the determination of the Associate Dean, Education about your final grade, you have the right to appeal the decision. Rule 3, Section 16 sets out the process and the grounds for appeal. You can appeal by submitting a Student Academic Appeal Form to [email protected] within 5 days of notification of the result. The Academic Board Appeals Committee will consider your appeal.

Appeal against Exclusion

If you have been excluded from the University, you have the right to appeal this decision. Rule 2, Section 10 sets out the requirements and process for appealing against exclusion. You can appeal this decision by submitting a Student Academic Appeal Form to [email protected] within 5 days of notification of exclusion. The Academic Board Appeals Committee will consider your appeal.

Appeal against Academic Misconduct

The Student Academic and Non-Academic Misconduct Rules set out the requirements and processes for appealing a determination of academic misconduct.

• Coursework Students may submit an appeal to the Executive Dean or College Dean via the appeal link in the notice.
• Higher Degree by Research Student may submit an appeal to the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Academic Capability) via the appeal link in the notice.

All Appeals must be submitted within 20 days of notification of a determination of academic misconduct.

Appeal against Non-academic Misconduct

If you do not agree with a determination of non-academic misconduct under the Rules - Student Academic and Non-Academic Misconduct Rules, you may appeal to the Student Misconduct Appeals Committee by emailing [email protected], citing your grounds for appeal. Appeals must be submitted within 20 days of notification of a determination.

External Appeal

Students who are not satisfied with the result or conduct of the University’s appeals process have the right to access an external appeal process via NSW Ombudsman.