Written Submission template: Appeal of a HDR Academic Progress Outcome

If you have received a HDR academic progress outcome and would like support with the written submission for your appeal, we’re here to help.

Here is a written submission template for appealing a HDR academic progress outcome to the University Appeals Committee. Please feel free to use this template to write your written submission. Please ensure you have read our Appeal of a HDR Academic Progress outcome webpage prior to drafting your written submission.

Written Submission Template

University Appeals Committee
Deakin University
[insert date]

Dear Deakin University Appeals Committee members,

Re: Appeal of a decision of the Graduate Research Academic Progress Committee regarding academic progress in [insert your course code and course name]

I, [name], want to appeal a decision of the Graduate Research Academic Progress Committee to [insert decision as indicated on the outcome letter].

Include a brief introduction here

• Provide some information about yourself.
• I am appealing on the grounds of [briefly state which of the possible grounds you are basing your appeal on, then use whichever subheadings below are relevant and include an explanation for each ground you are appealing on].

Misapplication of process occurred that resulted in material disadvantage to the candidate

• Detail which university process/es or procedure/s were not followed properly.
• Describe how you think the misapplication of process resulted in material disadvantage occurring.
• Refer to relevant Deakin University policies, procedures and/or regulations to support your statements.

New evidence that was not known or available at the time of the original decision is now available and could have affected the outcome of the decision

• Explain the new information/supporting documentation you now have that you were not previously able to provide and how this evidence could have affected the outcome/decision.
• Indicate the reason why you were unable to provide this information earlier. For example, your medical practitioner was on leave, or your documents were in a place you were unable to access, or another reason.
• Explain how the new evidence could have influenced the Graduate Research Academic Progress Committee’s decision if it had been available at the time.
• Examples of new evidence may include a doctor’s letter, counsellor’s support letter, Language and Learning Adviser letter, etc.

Conclusion

• Summarise your main points and include how the decision has affected you or will affect you.

Yours sincerely,

Student Name

Student ID,
Mailing Address,
Telephone,
Email,
Attachments

Provide copies of any documents you think are relevant to your case.

DUSA Advocates can review your draft appeal submission and provide you with confidential feedback before you finalise it and submit it to the University Appeals Committee. (Please allow 1-2 business days prior to submission date for feedback to be provided.) Please contact us to arrange a free appointment.