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SAIT has a procedure in place for students who wish to appeal their grades. The first step is to speak directly with the instructor. SAITSA VP Academic, Heather MacBeath, is also on hand to help students through the process if needed.

Unhappy with your grades?

Maybe you don’t have to live with it

As another semester begins, most students will be checking their MySait accounts to see how much the previous four months paid off.

While most will have a pretty good idea of what their final grades are, a few will be disappointed and even possibly surprised.

The first step to appealing a grade is to make an informal appeal, said SAITSA VP Academic, Heather MacBeath.

“Generally make sure you talk to your instructor first, and then your AC (Academic Chair), don’t just rush into making a formal appeal,” MacBeath said. “You might be able to resolve it with just the instructor which would be a lot simpler.”

Most instructors keep records of their students’ marks and assignments. If a procedural error was made on their part, they’ll change the grade.

“Instructors are required to show you how they distribute the weight of your mark at the beginning of the semester and at the end if asked as well,” said Christina Raisbeck, from the MacPhail School of Energy.

If after voicing concerns to your instructor you find the results unsatisfactory, ask the administrative assistant for your program to book an appointment with your Academic Chair. This is the first step in making a formal appeal.

When speaking to your AC make sure to have all necessary documents and assignments available upon request. Let him or her know if you think the mark is a procedural error or a discriminatory mark.

If you find the results of this consultation unsatisfactory, you can then fill out a grades appeal form. These forms can be found at SAIT student services, in the Heritage Hall building in room MC211.

“Student can appeal a final mark grade in any subject within 30 calendar days of the final class or examination date. For apprenticeships students, they have 10 days, since their programs are shorter,” said MacBeath.

Include your a solution at the end of the form, MacBeath said. “This shows that you’re actively looking for a solution to the problem.”

It costs $35 for each grade appealed, but the fee is refunded if decided in favour of the student. The form includes your student ID, program, subject info and a signed agreement

A re-evaluation of your final mark will be based on the nature of your work. “If the mark is based on a practicum, or lab then the dean of your program will decide the outcome,” said MacBeath.

After a consultation with the dean, instructor and student, a decision is made within 10 business days and a notification is mailed out. The dean’s decision is final and binding.

“Keep in mind, that if you appeal a grade, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will get a higher grade, it could also result in no change of mark, or worse, a lowering of the original mark,” Raisbeck said.

MacBeath offers this advice. “Know what to do, know the procedures, and know that there are people here to help you,” she said. “My door is always open to students that have any concerns.”

Contact MacBeath at .

Remember to keep an eye on your marks throughout the semester, so that if a mark is entered incorrectly, it can be changed as soon as possible.

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