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Academic Consideration for Absences

Western’s Academic Consideration policy provides students with consistent, fair, and academically appropriate consideration when they are unable to complete some component of a course due to extenuating circumstances. These considerations are only provided upon the presentation of appropriate documentation.

Minor illnesses or stresses from personal and family situations are part of everyone's reality. A true measure of success is not just determined by how one performs in ideal conditions but by the ability to thrive even in challenging circumstances. Genuine capability is defined by resilience, adaptability, and performance in the face of adversity. Therefore, educational assessments may occur in suboptimal conditions.

At Western University, with this understanding, we offer the following support systems:

Academic Consideration Policy

Our Academic Consideration policy ensures that students facing significant challenges can request academic accommodations such as deadline extensions or reweighting of missed assessments. These considerations are granted only upon the submission of appropriate documentation. To uphold academic and pedagogical integrity, instructors retain discretion over the specific accommodations provided.

Significant Challenges? Reach out for Support

If you believe your current situation demands medical or professional intervention, think about not proceeding with the assessment. Western offers a myriad of resources to assist students in navigating significant challenges. In the most extreme cases, we support students who opt for a leave of absence or course withdrawal, allowing them to manage their challenges and return to their studies when they are ready.

Manageable Challenges? Consider Moving Forward

If you assess your situation and feel your challenges are manageable without external intervention, you should think about pressing on with your assessments. Maintaining high academic standards is essential at Western University. A fundamental aspect of these standards is our belief that students should not be permitted to have repeat attempts on the same assessment. This ensures fairness, consistency and integrity in evaluating every student's performance. However, if you decide to continue with an assessment despite the challenges you face, you should be prepared to accept the resultant grades These same challenges will not be considered as valid grounds for subsequent grade appeals.