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Guides and articles on university, education and student legal issues.

Academic Appeals

Can I Complain to the OIA After an Academic Appeal?

Check eligibility, the final letter and the issues an independent review can examine.

Check eligibility

The Office of the Independent Adjudicator reviews eligible complaints about higher education providers in England and Wales. Usually you must first complete the provider's internal process and receive a Completion of Procedures letter. Check that your provider is a member and that the issue is within the OIA's scheme.

Explain the issue for review

Set out the decision, the internal steps, the outcome you sought and why you think the provider's handling was unreasonable or unfair. Attach the key decision letters and evidence. The OIA generally does not replace an academic examiner's judgment simply because you disagree with a mark.

Check the date

The OIA normally must receive an eligible complaint within 12 months of the COP letter. This is distinct from any other legal deadline. The OIA's own website provides the current submission process.