Student Services
Academic Appeals (Graduate)
An academic appeal may be made in accordance with university policy when a student believes that an academic decision (e.g., a course grade, admission to a program or major, etc.) involving that student is unfair or erroneous. Instructions can be found in Academic Appeals in the Graduate Student Handbook. For undergraduate students, see Academic Appeals in the Undergraduate Student Handbook.
If a graduate student has already made the earlier steps in the process (e.g., appeal to the faculty member and department chair; or appeal to the Registrar’s Office) and is not satisfied that the situation has been dealt with appropriately, appeal to the Senior Associate Provost is the last step. In other words, the Senior Associate Provost will make the final decision for the University.
Guidelines for Writing an Appeal to the Senior Associate Provost
How to Write Your Appeal
- Address the appeal to Dr. Anderson.
- In the opening paragraph, provide your contact information, include your full name and ID#. Also list any pertinent details connected to the appeal such as course number and name, semester, professor of record, etc.
- Explain that you are writing to appeal a particular decision, be specific.
- Summarize the events that took place.
- Describe the circumstances that led up to your request (e.g., family or life hardships, health, disability, etc.). Explain how these circumstances had a direct impact on your academic performance and/or why you think the decision made by faculty or by the department was incorrect; why it should be changed.
- Describe any action you took to address your situation (sought medical treatment, support on or off campus, academic advising, etc.). If you are appealing a Registrar decision, a faculty member’s decision, or a department decision, describe what appeal steps you have already tried.
- Include documentation if available (e.g., doctor’s note, documentation from Health Center, Campus Safety; copies of appeals already attempted with Registrar, faculty, or academic department).
- State your desired outcome and how this outcome will help with your continued success at Biola.
- Avoid common errors (typographical, grammatical, spelling) and avoid the use of slang.
- Be factual, detailed and succinct.
How to Submit Your Appeal
A letter of appeal should be written in a professional letter format and submitted by email to Patti Colombo in the Senior Associate Provost office at seniorassociateprovostoffice@biola.edu.
Dr. Anderson will give you the opportunity to discuss your petition with her in person. Please contact Patti Colombo to schedule an appointment at seniorassociateprovostoffice@biola.edu. Please note, Dr. Anderson should have your written appeal before you come in for your meeting. If you are out of the area, or coming to campus for a meeting is difficult, we can schedule a Zoom meeting or phone call.
Dean's List
The Dean’s List is a significant accomplishment that is awarded to students who have earned a semester grade point average (GPA) of 3.60 or higher, while enrolled in 12 or more credit units and who have maintained a cumulative GPA of at least 3.20. This honor is a valuable addition to a resume or portfolio.
A “Dean's List” notification will appear on a student’s transcript every semester that they earn this standing. Students will receive an email notification following the semester that they are awarded, and they may also request a physical copy of their letter.
Questions may be directed to Patti Colombo at seniorassociateprovostoffice@biola.edu.