Grade Appeal
FIT is dedicated to upholding fairness in the evaluation of students' academic performance. We trust our faculty to maintain objectivity throughout the assessment of student coursework, as they establish grading policies and hold exclusive authority in determining final grades. Nevertheless, recognizing the importance of fairness, FIT provides students with a formal avenue to appeal their final grades if they believe they were unfairly assessed.
Before proceeding with an appeal, students are strongly encouraged to address any concerns informally with their instructors. This initial discussion often resolves misunderstandings about grade determination. If informal resolution proves unsuccessful and a procedural error in the final grade is suspected, students may initiate a formal appeal process. This involves submitting a detailed rationale supported by evidence to their instructor within the first month of the following semester.
To substantiate their appeal, students must present compelling evidence demonstrating either an instructor's grading error or a discrepancy in syllabus grading policies. This evidence includes, but is not limited to graded assignments, communications with instructors, and documentation of any extenuating circumstances. It is important to note that submitting a grade appeal does not guarantee a change in grade; each appeal undergoes thorough review before a final decision is made. Appeals motivated solely by a desire for a higher grade will not be considered.
It is imperative that students adhere to the outlined procedure and time limits for initiating and resolving appeals, as failure to do so within the specified timeframe will result in the appeal being terminated without further action. Detailed steps and time limits for the appeal process can be found in the section below.
FIT remains committed to ensuring transparency and fairness in all academic matters, including the appeals process, to uphold the integrity of our educational standards.
Steps to Appeal
Send an email to your instructor in the first month of the following semester. You should expect a written reply within two weeks.
Address the email directly to your instructor and also copy the department chair and school dean.
Your instructor will review your situation and how you're doing academically.
If your instructor is unavailable, or if you do not hear back from your instructor within two weeks of sending your email, contact the department chair instead.
If you are disagree with your instructor's decision on the appeal, contact the department chair.
Write a formal appeal within two weeks of getting your instructor's decision. The
department chair will review your case and reply within two weeks.
Include your original appeal and the instructor's response.
If you disagree with the department chair's decision, you can appeal to the school dean.
Submit a written appeal within two weeks of getting the department chair's decision. You should hear back within two weeks.
The dean will make sure the right procedures were followed, but will not evaluate your appeal's merits.
If you disagree with the dean's decision, you can appeal to the VPAA.
Submit a written appeal within two weeks of getting the dean's decision.
The VPAA will check if the procedures were followed correctly and reply within two weeks.
» To appeal your grade, please complete the Academic Affairs Student Concern form.