Simple extensions

What's a simple extension?

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.

You can receive an extension of five calendar days from your original assessment due date.

Simple extension decisions cannot be appealed

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.

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.

Process for non-assignment tasks

You may be able to receive an extension of up to 5 calendar days for an assessment, such as a practical skill or out-of-class quiz, as outlined in clause 81 of the Coursework Policy. This is an informal arrangement between you and your unit of study coordinator and does not require a formal application.

Discuss with your unit of study coordinator

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.

Process for 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.

As outlined in clause 81A of the Coursework Policy, assignments can include:

written work
creative work
experimental design
data analysis
case studies
research analysis.

You cannot receive an extension for group work through this process.

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Know when to apply

You can only apply for a simple extension 5 days prior to the due date and time of the assignment (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 from 12.01 am 24 March to 11.59 pm 28 March.
Start your application

Apply through the special consideration and arrangements form. You need to select the relevant assessment item. If your assessment is eligible, you will have the option to select 'yes' if you would like to request a simple extension.
Go to special consideration and arrangements form
Attach student declaration

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.
Download student declaration (docx, <1MB)
Receive your outcome

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 <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/students/special-consideration.html">apply for special consideration.</a> To be eligible, you will need to have the required supporting documents.

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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 <a href="https://sydneyuni.service-now.com/sm?id=sc_cat_item&sys_id=eced9fc987a1d1d0fb4dab0a0cbb3511&sysparm_category=273ea4c7db077fc02d38cae43a961914">submit an online enquiry</a>.

Can't see the option to apply for a simple extension?

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