Can professors change a final grade? This question is one that students often ask, and the answer can be complex. In this article, we will explore the circumstances under which a professor may consider changing a final grade. Plus, the steps students can take if they wish to appeal a grade.
Final grades are essential to any academic course, as they reflect a student’s overall performance throughout the term or semester. However, what happens when students disagree with their final grade? And believe it does not accurately reflect their work or efforts?
While there are processes in place to appeal final grades, it is ultimately up to the professor’s discretion whether or not to change a final grade. Let’s learn more about what to do, how to ask, and if a student can have a grade change.
Circumstances When Professors Change A Final Grade
There are various reasons why a professor may consider changing a final grade. One such reason is if they made a calculation error when determining the final grade.
In this case, if a student brings it to their attention, the professor may review their calculation and make any necessary adjustments to the final grade.
Another scenario where a professor may consider changing a final grade is if a student believes their scores were incorrectly calculated. The student can discuss their concern with the professor, who may review their scores and make any necessary revisions.
If a student has completed extra credit work not initially factored into their final grade, the professor may consider revising it. This would take into account the additional work done by the student and may lead to a higher final grade.
When a student has received an incomplete or missing grade due to circumstances beyond their control, such as a medical emergency, the professor may consider revising their final grade. Once the student completes the missing work, the professor may review their performance and adjust the final grade accordingly.
Finally, extenuating circumstances, such as a family emergency, can also impact a student’s academic performance. In such cases, a professor may consider revising a final grade to reflect the student’s situation and provide a fair evaluation of their performance.
These circumstances are not an exhaustive list, and deciding to change a final grade ultimately lies at the professor’s discretion. However, students have the right to appeal a final grade if they believe it was unfairly assigned, and there are established procedures for this process.
Reasons To A Student Appeals Final Grades
One reason a student might want to appeal a final grade is disagreement with the grade received. This could happen if a student feels their grade is unfair or does not accurately reflect their performance. The final grade may not align with the student’s expectations or with their work.
Another reason for a grade appeal could be if a student believes there was an error in the grading of an assignment, exam, or project. For example, there could be a mistake in calculating scores or overlooking the work. If a student believes the grading was not conducted correctly, they may choose to appeal.
Issues with the grading criteria can also be a reason for a student to appeal a final grade. If students believe the grading criteria used to assess their work were unclear, inconsistent, or unfair, they may appeal to the final grade. In such cases, the student may believe they did not receive a fair evaluation of their work.
Discrimination or bias is another reason a student may choose to appeal a grade. This could include discrimination based on race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.
Suppose a student experiences personal or medical circumstances that affect their academic performance. This may include illness, injury, family emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances. In that case, they may choose to appeal their grade.
Note that appealing a final grade is not a way for a student to challenge a professor’s academic judgment. Nor a way to ask for a higher grade simply because they disagree with the grade they received.
Students must have valid grounds for their appeal, which must be supported by evidence or documentation. Additionally, students should be aware of their institution’s established procedures for grade appeals and follow them accordingly.
How Common Are Final Grade Changes?
It is difficult to provide a definitive answer to how common it is for professors to change final grades. This can vary depending on the institution and individual circumstances.
However, it is rare for professors to change final grades as they are expected to have made their evaluations carefully and objectively. That being said, there are certain circumstances where a professor may consider changing a final grade, as we have discussed earlier.
Overall, while it is uncommon for professors to change final grades, they have the discretion to do so in certain circumstances. Students who believe that their final grade was unfairly assigned can appeal the grade. Nonetheless, they must go through the established procedures at their institution.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while it is uncommon for professors to change a final grade, they have the discretion to do so. If a student believes that their final grade was assigned unfairly or inaccurately, they can appeal the grade according to the established procedures at their institution.
However, note that appealing a final grade is not a way for students to challenge a professor’s academic judgment or to ask for a higher grade simply because they disagree with the grade they received.
The grounds for a grade appeal must be valid and supported by evidence or documentation. Overall, professors changing a final grade is not a decision taken lightly. Both professors and students need to understand the processes and procedures involved in grading and grade appeals.
