Understanding University Disciplinary Procedures and Appeals

Understanding University procedures and appeals

Universities typically follow similar pathways when designing processes and procedures for students involved in disciplinary or misconduct cases or those wishing to appeal. These processes can be broken down into the following steps:

• Informal Stage
• Formal Stage One
• Formal Stage Two
• Completion of Procedure

Advice for Each Step of the University Procedural Journey

It is important for students to understand the significance of each step in this often painstaking and anxiety-inducing process. Here’s what each step entails:

Informal Stage: This stage serves as an opportunity before any official administrative processes begin. It is a space for both the student and university staff to explore whether there is a way to resolve the situation without resorting to formal procedures. This is a chance to engage openly, honestly, and transparently about the events in question and to find a viable solution.

Formal Stage One: Most institutions have a formal process in place for this stage. Here, students can present their version of events, either in writing or through a physical meeting. Honesty is paramount during this process, and it’s equally important to be reflective. If there is a professional code of conduct you are required to follow, present any critical learning points you feel you may have not met, and how you can improve. For those pursuing academic appeals or student complaints, this is your opportunity to provide detailed accounts of key events. Be sure to include any supporting evidence that backs up your version of events.

Review Stage: The review stage occurs once the formal process is complete. At this point, the university will provide an official outcome based on the first formal stage. Most universities will give substantial details explaining their decision. If you disagree with this decision, you can enter the review stage to present your final case to the university. At this stage, it’s vital to reflect on whether you have clearly articulated the details of your case. Seeking support can help ensure you communicate effectively. Sometimes, what you perceive as presenting the facts may not be perceived that way by others. Review the university's outcome to determine if they may have misinterpreted your explanation. When appealing, present your case more clearly, pointing out where the university may have erred in their decision. If possible, provide additional evidence to support your claims.

What If These Processes Leave You Feeling Dissatisfied?

If you remain unsatisfied after receiving the outcome of your appeal at the review stage, don’t lose hope. This is not the end of the process. Your university will provide an explanation of why your case has not been upheld and will issue you a Completion of Procedures letter, which signifies the end of your case with the university. Unfortunately, you cannot appeal to them again. However, you can take your case to the Office for the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) for the higher education sector.

The OIA is an independent body that oversees the higher education student complaints scheme in England and Wales. They employ impartial investigators who can review your complaint from a neutral perspective, offering an excellent understanding of what is fair in terms of decisions across the sector.

To submit a complaint to the OIA, visit their website, create an account, and share your perspective on your case. They may take some time to review your complaint, but if you feel wronged by your institution, they are an excellent organisation to engage with.

How The Higher Education Advocate Can Help

The Higher Education Advocate can support you throughout your entire journey. We specialise in understanding how universities make decisions and are here to assist you from the informal stage all the way to the OIA.