Escalating academic concerns (guide)
Service offered by U of A Students' Union (UASU)
This guide supports students who are experiencing challenges in a course and are unsure where to seek help. Academic concerns may include grading issues, changes to exam formats, unclear policies, instructor or TA conduct, delayed feedback, accommodation problems, or fairness concerns. The guide helps students prepare by gathering key details such as course information, relevant dates, assignments, and steps already taken. It outlines appropriate contacts depending on the situation, including Department Chairs, Associate Deans, Academic Advisors, the Office of the Student Ombuds, Faculty Associations, and the Office of Safe Disclosure & Human Rights. A sample email template is provided to help students communicate concerns clearly and professionally. This resource helps students understand their options and navigate University processes confidently. It offers guidance and direction but does not investigate complaints or make decisions.
Service Offerings
- Step-by-step guidance on preparing to raise an academic concern
- List of appropriate contacts (Department Chair, Associate Dean, Academic Advisor, Ombuds, etc.)
- Information about specialized support offices
- Sample email template for contacting administrators
- Direction to formal and informal resolution pathways
Location
Online
Hours of Operation
Available 24/7
What to Expect
Students can expect clear, practical guidance on where to raise academic concerns, respectful information about options, and direction to appropriate offices. This guide supports informed decision-making but does not investigate or resolve complaints.Cost
No charge for serviceContact
Academic Advisors: Undergraduate Academic Advising by FacultyAudience: Undergraduate students, Graduate students
Home Campus: All
Delivery format: Webpage
Access: Access anytime
Service Provider: U of A Students' Union (UASU)
Language: English