What are self-certified extenuating circumstances (ECs) and how can I apply?

Self-certified extenuating circumstances (ECs) are used when you do not have evidence but you still have a valid/recognised circumstance that would justify a short extension or deferral of coursework or deferral of an exam.

You can submit up to three self-certified applications per academic year (one per academic Semester and Late Summer Assessment Period), and they can be used for all types of assessments.

If successful, you will receive an extension of five University working days (or a deferral to the next available assessment period if you have selected this option) for coursework, and / or a deferral of exam/s to the next available assessment period. No extensions are given for exams, these are always deferred. Because the period of self-certified EC is limited to five working days, all of the assessments being applied for must fall within five working days (one calendar week) of each other.

Self-certified applications can be applied for up to 10 working days (2 calendar weeks) before the assessment deadline. You can include multiple assessments/modules within a single self-certified application but their dates/deadlines must all be within 10 university working days (2 calendar weeks) of the EC application date.

You will need to include a statement outlining the reasons for the EC and how it is impacting your ability to undertake the assessment/s to the best of your ability.

If you need a longer extension or need to submit multiple applications, this can be done using an evidence based EC.

To start an EC application, go to Surrey Self-Service. You can find out more on how to submit your application our Extenuating Circumstances pages.

You can view all of our Extenuating Circumstances FAQs on MySurrey Help.