Extensions and Late Submissions
Guidance on how to submit a coursework extension request and the penalties for late submission.
Requesting a Coursework Extension
If there is a circumstance beyond your control that you feel may have an adverse impact on your coursework, you can apply for an extension.
You can request an extension of up to 3 days for most items of written coursework.
| Before applying | Before applying, you should discuss your situation with your Student Adviser. They will be able to advise you on your individual situation, help you access additional support if necessary, and guide you through the process of submitting your application for an extension. |
| Reasons for coursework extensions | Reasons for coursework extensions are unexpected short-term circumstances that are exceptional and beyond your control, and which may have an adverse impact on your ability to complete the assessment on time. |
| Request an extension before the deadline | You should request an extension before the deadline for that piece of work. You can apply for an extension up to 2 weeks before the submission date of your assessment. You cannot apply for an extension to an assessment after the submission date has passed. |
| Missed the deadline | If you missed the deadline for applying for an extension because of exceptional circumstances, you can apply for special circumstances. |
You can find out more about extensions and how to apply on the University's extensions page.
Extensions of More Than 3 days
Where you have a good reason for requiring a coursework extension of more than three calendar days, you should submit the coursework as soon as able to do so and apply via the Special Circumstances process to request disregarding the penalty for late submission.
Late Penalties
The University has a standardised penalty for late submission of coursework.
- The School will apply a uniform penalty of a reduction of 5% of the maximum obtainable mark per calendar day. Note that this includes weekends.
- For example, a mark of 65% on the common marking scale would be reduced to 60% up to 24 hours later.
We will accept late work for up to 7 calendar days after the deadline, after which work will not be marked and you will receive a mark of zero.
If you need any advice about extensions or late penalties please contact the BTO Student Support Team.
BTO Student Support Team
- School of Biological Sciences
Contact details
- Work: 0131 650 8649
- Email: btostudentsupport@ed.ac.uk
- Web: Student Support Team website
Address
- Street
James Clerk Maxwell Building, Room 2105
The King's Buildings- City
- Edinburgh
- Post Code
- EH9 3FD
Availability
Monday - Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm