Extensions explained
Here you can find a detailed explanation of what an extension is and if your situation qualifies you to apply for one.
The University is committed to supporting you during your studies. Therefore, if there is a circumstance beyond your control that you feel may have an adverse impact on your academic performance, you can apply for a coursework extension and/or for special circumstances.
Before applying, you should discuss your situation with your Personal Tutor (PT) and Student Support Team in your school. 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 and/or special circumstances.
An extension is a process where you receive additional time to complete your coursework. An extension for a coursework submission can be up to a maximum of seven calendar days following the deadline.
Schools may choose not to permit extensions on particular components of an assessment or may allow less than the full seven days. You can still apply for special circumstances for these components.
If you are unsure if the assessment you wish to apply for qualifies, please contact your course administrator.
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.
Some examples include ( but are not limited to):
- Recent short-term physical illness or injury;
- Recent short-term mental ill-health;
- A long-term or chronic physical health condition, which has recently worsened temporarily or permanently;
- A long-term or chronic mental health condition, which has recently worsened temporarily or permanently;
- The recent bereavement or serious illness of a person with whom the student has a close relationship;
- The recent breakdown in a long-term relationship, such as a marriage;
- Emergencies involving dependents;
- Job or internship interview at short notice that requires significant time, e.g. due to travel;
- Victim of a crime which is likely to have significant emotional impact;
- Military conflict, natural disaster, or extreme weather conditions;
- Experience of sexual harassment or assault;
- Experience of other forms of harassment;
- Exceptional and significant change in employment commitments, where this is beyond the student’s control;
- Exceptional (i.e. non-routine) caring responsibilities.
For further information please see section 28.6 of the Taught Assessment Regulations.
You can submit an application for an extension via the form below. If you want to apply for more than one extension, you will need to complete separate applications for each assignment.
You can submit several applications throughout the academic year if needed.
You should discuss your situation with your Personal Tutor (PT) and Student Support Team in your School. They will be able to advise you on your individual circumstance, and to ensure that you are being supported effectively in the future.
Contact your local Student Support Team
We also have services within the University that will be able to help you:
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You might find that you need a space to talk through what's happened. Free short-term counselling is available to all students.
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| Student Disability Service |
The Student Disability Service offers support for students with disabilities, learning difficulties or health condition (mental or physical) that may impact their studies.
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For help completing your application, and for impartial, effective support for anything to do with student life.
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| The Chaplaincy | A welcoming space for people of all faiths and none. They offer a free listening service for students who want to touch base on any concerns or anxieties, or are looking for a timely or purposeful conversation. Conversations can be held in a variety of places, and could be over coffee or a walk. They can also link you to specialist sources of help (including faith contacts if you wish.) |
| SilverCloud |
Free, self-directed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy courses that help manage anxiety, stress, depression and positive body image.
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| Togetherall |
A free, online support network, guided by trained professionals, that you can access 24/7.
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| Feeling Good App |
A safe and effective programme that is widely used within the NHS in Edinburgh, for increasing wellbeing and recovery from stress, worry and low mood.
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If the situation is urgent, or the university is closed:
| Helplines |
Our useful contacts page has a list of contact numbers for a variety of helplines available 24/7.
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Medical Help |
If they are open, contact your GP. Otherwise, telephone NHS 24 on 111. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, dial 999 for the emergency services.
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If you live in halls of residence, please contact the 24-hour helpline if you are experiencing an emergency.
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No evidence is required for extension requests. All you need to provide is a statement telling us about what happened and when did it occur.
If you are also thinking of applying for special circumstances, you will need to provide evidence.
You will be able to submit an extension request two weeks before your assignment deadline.
Applications submitted after your assignment deadlines will not be considered.
If you missed the deadline for applying for an extension because of exceptional circumstances, you can apply for special circumstances through the online system from mid-October 2020.
- After submitting a complete application for an extension, we will notify you of the decision within two working days.
- If your extension request is approved: We will let you know and for how many days you have an extension.
- If your extension request is not approved: You must submit your assessment to the original deadline. Any assessment submitted following this date will incur a late penalty.
If you have any questions please visit our frequently asked questions section. If you still require help, please get in touch by email.
Apply for an extension