Clashes and alternative arrangements
Examination clashes
Every effort is made to minimise examination clashes (two exams scheduled at the same time). However, there will be instances where exam clashes are unavoidable.
If you are affected by an exam clash, arrangements will be made for you to sit both exams on the same day:
- You will sit one of your clashing exams in the morning and one in the afternoon; or one in the afternoon and one in the evening. Your exams will not be rescheduled to another day.
- To prevent contact with other students sitting the exam at the scheduled time, after your earlier exam you will be escorted to a supervised room until your next exam starts.
- If you are affected by an exam clash you will receive written notification advising you of the planned arrangements.
Alternative arrangements
Students enrolled in Campus (C) courses and students enrolled in Distance (D) courses who live within 90 minutes' travel time of the University of Canterbury, are expected to be available to sit their exams on-campus for the entire duration of the examination period.
Alternative arrangements are allowed only very rarely and only in exceptional circumstances which are beyond the candidate’s control.
Your application must be received at least one month before the start of the examination period (unless the emergency situation arises at short notice).
Holiday plans are not considered valid grounds for alternative examination arrangements.
Reasons that will be considered when a student applies for alternative examination arrangements include:
| Reason | Criteria | Documentary evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Religious | Conflicting religious day or event | Letter from priest, rabbi or church elder |
| Sickness | Student or close family member | Letter from medical professional |
| Bereavement | Family member or close friend | Death notice or other appropriate evidence |
| Study | Overseas study. Must be a tertiary institute | Letter from other institute |
| Sporting or cultural event | Representing New Zealand, or the University of Canterbury (at a high level) | Letter from coach or event organiser |
| Wedding | Immediate family member or part of a bridal party | Wedding invitation and proof of relationship or involvement. Proof of travel where applicable. |
| Business | Business travel at a professional level | Letter from employer. Proof of travel where applicable. |
How to apply
If you will be unable to sit one or more of your exams at the scheduled time and place you should apply to sit them off-campus. In very rare occasions, you may be permitted to sit your exam at an alternative time. You should not make any arrangements until your application is approved.
To apply you must:
- Write a letter outlining your situation
- Include verifying documentation with your letter
- If you are applying to sit the exam off-campus, you must also submit an off-campus request form
Your application must be received at least one month before the start of the examination period (unless the situation arises at short notice).
Include all the requested information above together in one email or envelope.
Applications should be sent/addressed to:
examinations@canterbury.ac.nz
Examinations Senior Coordinator
Level 0, Matariki/Registry
University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
Fees
The application fee to sit an alternative exam arrangement is $131 (per venue). The fee is payable after your application has been approved. Payment instructions are included in the Exam-Payment-Options form.
Please note if your exam will be sat paper-based: Once an application to sit an exam off-campus has been approved, it is your responsibility to locate a suitable venue and supervisor. This must be approved by the Examination Senior Coordinator. Any additional fees incurred are your responsibility.
Need more information?
Please contact Examinations Senior Coordinator