Policy 3.9.1

Chapter 3 - Educational

3.9.1 Academic Grade Appeal

Procedure: 

Part 1:  Time Limits

Academic grade appeals must be initiated by the student 30 calendar days after the final grade being appealed has been posted to the student transcript.  In unusual circumstances, as determined by the College, the timeframe for initiating a grade appeal may be extended. 

Part 2:  Procedure

Step 1:  Meet with faculty member (Informal Resolution)

When a student believes that he/she has received an incorrect academic grade, he/she should seek out the involved faculty member(s), state the nature of the grievance, and make a serious attempt to mutually resolve the issue. 

Step 2:  Appeal to the Program Dean (Formal Resolution)

If the student and the instructor are unable to reach agreement and the student still believes they received an incorrect grade, he/she may submit a formal grade appeal using the Academic Grade Appeal Form (fillable doc).  The student shall present a written, signed statement of the nature of the grievance and identify the student’s efforts to resolve with faculty.  Within 10 instructional days of the faculty meeting, the student must present the Academic Grade Appeal form to the Academic Advisor who will facilitate the process and provide the form to the Program Dean.  The Program Dean will meet with the student and confer with the instructor regarding the appeal and will issue a written decision within 10 instructional days of receiving the Academic Grade Appeal Form.

Step 3:  Appeal to the Academic Appeals Committee (Formal Resolution)

If the student disagrees with the Program Dean’s decision, they can request for a hearing before the Academic Appeals Committee.  The request for a hearing must be presented in writing to the Academic Advisor who will submit to the Provost within 10 instructional days following the Program Dean’s decision.  If the written request for a hearing is not received within this timeframe, the Dean’s decision shall be final and posted to the student’s transcript.

Upon receiving the timely request, the Provost will convene the Academic Appeals Committee, which shall be comprised of one (1) student appointed by the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO), one (1) representative of the Manager/Director’s group, appointed by the college president; and two (2) faculty members appointed by the MSCF President.  The Provost will convene the Academic Appeals Committee within 10 instructional days following receipt of the written request for a hearing.  The hearing shall be governed by the following rules:

  • The Provost shall be the presiding officer of the hearing.
  • The student shall have the right to have her/his defense conducted by an advisor of his/her choice, the right to hear and examine adverse witnesses, and the right to testify and present evidence and witnesses in her/his behalf.
  • Both parties shall have an opportunity of settlement before the committee deliberates.
  • The committee will deliberate, vote, and render a decision.
  • If the deliberation results in a tie, the Provost shall cast the deciding vote.
  • Within 10 instructional days of the hearing, the Provost shall inform the student, instructor, MSCF president, CSAO, Advisor and Registrar of the decision in writing.
  • The decision of the Academic Appeals Committee shall be final.

Part 3:  Responsibilities

  1. The Provost is responsible for the overall administration of the grade appeals process and will maintain case files for a period of no less than five (5) years.
  2. The Provost will appoint one (1) student to serve on the Academic Appeals Committee.
  3. The College President will be responsible for appointing one (10) Manager/Director to serve on the Academic Appeals Committee.
  4. MSCF President will be responsible for appointing two (2) faculty members to serve on the Academic Appeals.
  5. The Registrar will ensure that the student transcript accurately reflects the grade as determined through the academic grade appeals process.

Part 4:  Absence of a Faculty Member

In the event of an extended absence or permanent absence of a faculty member, review of the final grade will be coordinated by the Dean.  The grading standards stated in the course syllabus will be utilized in this review.  The department/discipline faculty members will determine the accuracy and consistency of the grade in consultation with the Dean.  The Dean will notify the student in writing of the final decision of the consultation.

Related Documents:

Policy 3.9 Academic Grade Appeal

Approved by: Dr. Terry Gaalswyk, President
Effective date: March 20, 2025
President Approval May 7, 2025