Student self-certification of absence from learning
The University has introduced a Procedure for Student Self-Certification of Absence from Learning which sets out arrangements for students to notify the University if they are ill or unable to study for a period up to and including seven days.
The procedure was initially introduced in March 2020 relating to absence due to illness, but has now been extended for the 2021/22 academic year and also includes cases where students miss learning opportunities due to situations such as loss of IT connection or care responsibilities. The procedure applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate taught students undertaking programmes of study at the University of Manchester. It covers teaching and learning activities, but does not extend to exams or assessment.
Student self-certification forms will not be accepted to cover absence from exams or other forms of assessment; in these cases, students should apply for mitigation under the Policy on Mitigating Circumstances and Coursework Extensions. However, submitted student self-certification forms could be used as a form of evidence towards a claim for mitigation under the Policy on Mitigating Circumstances; in such cases, however, the student’s claim for mitigation would be stronger if they also provided appropriate, independent, third-party supporting or collaborative documentation.
The Procedure and the associated Self-Certification of Absence Form can be found below:
- Procedure for Student Self-Certification of Absence from Learning (updated November 2021)
- Student Self-Certification of Absence Form
List of School contacts for students to submit their forms to: