Academic

What are the possible academic implications?

Don’t let academic concerns prevent you from taking the time to get help and get better.

 Each year, many Oxford students take time off from their course; however, as long as you follow the correct procedures, you will not be disadvantaged academically. If you feel that you need to take time off in order to recuperate or get medical treatment, do not be too worried about the impact it might have on your degree.

The nature of an Oxford degree means that missing a few weeks of an Oxford term may necessitate taking a year out from your studies. Taking time off is a college matter and each college has their own way of dealing with students who wish to take time out. It is advisable to discuss your concerns with someone in college, so that they can advise you on how your college handles students taking time off. Try to identify someone who you find approachable and trustworthy – this might be a Tutor for Women, Dean, or personal/moral tutor – and talk through possible options with them. Do remember that if you do decide to take a year off, you may be denied access to University and college facilities during that year (as your Bod Card will be suspended), so it may also be useful to think about what you intend to do during your time away from Oxford. You will need to talk through the matter with your subject tutors and your college Senior Tutor, who will have the final say in granting permission for time away from Oxford.

If you are approaching exams and/or dissertation deadlines and you feel that your academic performance has been compromised by your condition, you will need to get a medical certificate from your doctor. Try to use a college doctor rather than a doctor from home, if possible, as they are aware of how medical certificates need to be written. Candidates cannot communicate directly with the examiners. Instead you will need to pass this certificate to your Senior Tutor within College, who will then decide whether to forward it to the Proctors (the University officials responsible for examinations). It is advantageous to submit medical certificates to your Senior Tutor in advance of your exams, as this will ensure that there is time for them to be processed and if appropriate, forwarded to examiners.

 Further information available from: OUSU Student Advice Service – academic@ousu.org or (2)88464