Internal Assessment Appeals Procedure

1. Purpose

This procedure provides candidates with a clear, fair, and transparent process to appeal against internal assessment decisions made during the delivery of QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND programmes at Siam University.

The procedure ensures that all appeals are handled consistently, impartially, and in accordance with institutional quality assurance requirements.

2. Scope

This procedure applies to all candidates enrolled in QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND programmes delivered by the International College, Siam University, including:

  • Advanced Certificate in Business
  • Advanced Diploma in Business

The procedure applies only to internal assessment decisions, including coursework, assignments, projects, and practical assessments.

It does not apply to complaints related to general services, which are addressed under the College's Complaints Procedure.

For Advanced Diploma programmes, this procedure represents the full and final stage of appeal. No external appeal route is available.

3. Grounds for Appeal

A candidate may submit an appeal if they believe that:

  • Assessment procedures were not conducted in accordance with approved requirements
  • Assessment criteria were applied incorrectly
  • Submitted evidence was not properly considered
  • There was an administrative or clerical error in recording results
  • Feedback provided does not justify the assessment decision

Appeals will not be accepted solely on the basis of disagreement with the academic judgment of the assessor.

4. Principles

The appeals process is based on the following principles:

  • Candidates have the right to appeal internal assessment decisions
  • Appeals must be based on evidence and assessment process, not personal disagreement
  • All appeals will be handled fairly, consistently, and impartially
  • Individuals involved in the original assessment decision will not make the final appeal decision
  • Clear and accurate records will be maintained at all stages

For Advanced Diploma programmes, the appeals process concludes at the final internal stage. Learners do not have the right to escalate assessment appeals to the awarding body or external regulators.

5. Stages of the Appeals Procedure

Stage 1 – Informal Appeal to the Assessor

Process

  • The candidate must contact the Assessor within 5 working days of receiving the assessment result
  • The Assessor will review the assessment evidence and provide clarification of the decision
  • Where appropriate, the Assessor may recheck the marking

Outcome

  • If resolved, the decision is confirmed and recorded
  • If unresolved, the candidate may proceed to Stage 2

Stage 2 – Formal Review by the Internal Verifier (IV)

Process

  • The candidate submits a formal written appeal using the Appeal Form within 5 working days of the Stage 1 outcome
  • The appeal is submitted to the Programme Leader or QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND Coordinator
  • The Internal Verifier reviews:
    • Assessment evidence
    • Assessment criteria and marking decisions
    • Assessor feedback
    • Relevant assessment records
  • The IV may consult the Assessor and candidate where necessary

Outcome

  • A written decision is issued within 10 working days
  • If the appeal is upheld, appropriate corrective action will be implemented (e.g., remarking or reassessment)
  • If not upheld, justification will be clearly provided

Stage 3 – Independent Appeals Panel (Final Stage)

Panel Composition

  • Academic Quality Manager or QUALIFICATIONS SCOTLAND Coordinator (Chair)
  • A senior academic not involved in the original assessment
  • Programme Quality Leader or an independent academic representative (if required)

Process

  • The panel reviews all relevant documentation, including:
    • Assessment evidence
    • Assessor and Internal Verifier reports
    • Candidate's appeal statement
  • The panel may invite the candidate and/or Assessor for clarification if required

Outcome

  • A final decision is issued within 10 working days
  • The decision of the Appeals Panel is final
  • No further right of appeal exists beyond this stage

6. Communication of the Procedure

This procedure will be communicated to candidates through:

  • Student induction sessions
  • Programme handbooks
  • The University website and learning management system
  • Student support services

7. Record Keeping

The College will maintain comprehensive records of all appeals, including:

  • Completed appeal forms
  • Evidence reviewed
  • Decisions made at each stage
  • Correspondence with candidates

All records will be securely retained in accordance with institutional data management and retention policies.

8. Monitoring and Review

This procedure will be reviewed annually by the Academic Quality Assurance Committee to ensure continued effectiveness, fairness, and alignment with institutional requirements.