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Simple extensions
If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to arrange an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.
Changes to simple extensions
We have made changes to simple extensions and how you apply. Simple extensions will now provide you with an extension of five calendar days from your original assessment due date.
Find out more about how to apply depending on your assessment type below.
When to apply for special consideration instead
If you can't complete an exam or you need an extension for a longer period, you may be eligible to apply for special consideration. There are specific eligibility and document requirements for special consideration applications depending on your circumstances so make sure you read the information carefully. Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.
A simple extension is an informal arrangement that you can receive for any non-exam task, as outlined in Part 14, clause 81 and 81A of the Coursework Policy (pdf, 584KB). It should only be for short periods of time.
How to apply
Non-assignment tasks
You may be able to receive an extension of up to 5 calendar days for an assessment, such as an in-class assessment, quiz or small test, as outlined in the Coursework Policy (pdf, 584KB). This is an informal arrangement between you and your unit of study coordinator and does not require a formal application.
- You’ll need to talk to your unit of study coordinator about your reason for a simple extension. If they agree to give you a simple extension, you should have this confirmed by email. Make sure the email includes the title ‘simple extension’ and shows the unit of study code and your student ID.
- If your unit of study coordinator decides it is appropriate, you will be given an extension of up to 5 calendar days without penalty. You cannot appeal a simple extension decision as the outcome is not considered an academic decision for the purposes of the University of Sydney (Student Academic Appeals) Rule (pdf, 96KB).
Assignments
If you have suffered illness, injury or misadventure and have been unable to complete an assignment task, you can apply for an extension of 5 calendar days from the due date with no penalty.
Assignments can include: essay, report, case study, proposal, literature review, portfolio, or design. You cannot receive an extension for group work through this process.
You need to apply through the special consideration portal and provide a student declaration form.
You need to apply for a simple extension prior to the due date and time for the assessment item. You can only apply 5 days prior to the assignment due date (inclusive). This means the earliest you can apply is 5 days before it is due. For example: If the due date is 28 March, the window to apply for a Simple Extension is 12.01 am 24 March to 11.59 pm 28 March. It is not possible to apply for a short-release assignment, e.g. an assignment that is released to you to complete within 10 working days.
Issues applying
You won't see the option to apply for a simple extension if the due date for the assignment is more than 5 days away.
If the assignment or due date is not visible in the portal, contact your unit of study coordinator to provide a simple extension off system. If your unit is missing in the portal you should submit an enquiry online.
- Apply through the special consideration and arrangements form.
- Start completing the form and select the relevant assessment item. Where the assessment type is an assignment, you will have the option to select 'yes' if you would like to request a simple extension.
- As part of your application, you will need to attach a student declaration outlining the reason you are unable to complete the assessment item by the due date.
Your request for a simple extension will be assessed and you will receive an outcome by email. If approved for a simple extension, you will be given an extension of 5 calendar days without penalty. Usual late penalties will apply if you do not submit your assessment by the new due date.
You can only receive one simple extension for an assessment. If you experience exceptional circumstances and are unable to complete your assessment by the new due date, you may be able to apply for special consideration. To be eligible, you will need to have the required supporting documents.
You cannot appeal a simple extension decision as the outcome is not considered an academic decision for the purposes of the University of Sydney (Student Academic Appeals) Rule (pdf, 96KB).
Last updated: 29 October 2024
