UniMelb special consideration: how to apply and by when
Rule checked against The University of Melbourne's own pages on .
For special consideration, apply through the login application portal no later than four business days after your assignment's due date or missed class. For a short extension, apply by the assignment's deadline and request a due date within one to three calendar days of it. First, check the due date or missed class date and open the portal to choose the application type that fits your situation.
- Time limit to apply
- You must apply no later than four business days after your assignment's due date or missed class.[3]
- Where to apply
- Apply through the login application portal, which gives access to the extension and special consideration application form.[1]
- Evidence you need
- For special consideration and extensions, supporting documents must be uploaded within four business days of your application. Short extensions do not need supporting documents.[2]
- What you may get
- Special consideration can offer deferred assessments, replacement classes or days, a special assessment or exam, exceptions or re-weighting for hurdles or small assessments, extensions, an additional task, or an alternative arrangement.[3]
- If you apply late
- Late applications are accepted only if you apply before subject results are released, were unable to apply on time (for example because of hospitalisation, severe trauma or a close bereavement), and provide documents confirming the impact. Applications aren't accepted after subject results are released.[3]
- Short extensions
- Short extensions need no supporting documents. Apply by the assignment's deadline and request a due date within one to three calendar days of it.[1]
- If you're refused
- The page lists eligibility reviews and outcome reviews. It aims to provide outcomes of review requests within 5 business days, and says there are currently delays.[3]
Check which deadline applies
Special consideration is a one-off change to an assessment task when circumstances affect your ability to prepare for or complete it. The university assesses each application case by case. Apply through the login application portal, which gives access to the extension and special consideration application form.
For special consideration, you must apply no later than four business days after your assignment's due date or missed class. For a short extension, apply by the assignment's deadline and request a due date within one to three calendar days of it. Short extensions do not need supporting documents. For special consideration and extensions, supporting documents must be uploaded within four business days of your application.
What to do first
- Read your letter and check the assessment due date or missed class date.
- Open the login application portal and choose the application type that matches your situation: short extension, extension or special consideration.
- Complete the form for the assessment. If you are asking for a short extension, request a due date within one to three calendar days of the assessment deadline.
- Upload true supporting documents if your application type needs them. For special consideration and extensions, upload them within four business days of your application.
- Keep a copy of what you submit and the date you applied.
If you are unsure which type fits, read the descriptions on the university's page before you submit.
What makes the process cleaner
Read the university's page on eligibility and supporting documentation so you know what your application type requires. Use true evidence only. Do not alter a document. Keep copies of documents and forms you submit. The official pages we read do not state a standard time for an initial special consideration outcome.
What happens after you apply
The university assesses each application case by case. The university's page lists the outcomes special consideration can offer. Read that list and your own letter so you know what applies to your assessment.
If you miss the deadline or want a review
If you miss the deadline, late applications are accepted only if you apply before subject results are released, you were unable to apply on time (for example because of hospitalisation, severe trauma or a close personal or family bereavement), and you provide documents confirming the impact. Applications are not accepted after subject results are released. If you missed the deadline and have failed a subject, the page says you may be eligible to apply for fee remission; it is a separate process.
The page lists eligibility reviews and outcome reviews. It aims to provide outcomes of review requests within five business days, and says there are currently delays. You can talk to UMSU Advocacy Service, listed under Free help.
Free help at UniMelb
Common questions
How long do I have to apply for special consideration?
For special consideration, apply no later than four business days after your assignment's due date or missed class. For a short extension, apply by the assignment's deadline and request a due date within one to three calendar days of it.
When do I upload supporting documents?
For special consideration and extensions, upload supporting documents within four business days of your application. Short extensions do not need supporting documents.
Can I apply late?
Late applications are accepted only if you apply before subject results are released, you were unable to apply on time (for example because of hospitalisation, severe trauma or a close personal or family bereavement), and you provide documents confirming the impact. Applications are not accepted after subject results are released.
What can special consideration give me?
The university assesses each application case by case. The university's page lists the outcomes special consideration can offer; check that list and your own letter for what may apply to your assessment.
Sources
- How to apply for an assessment adjustment | Current students | The University of Melbourne, The University of Melbourne. Checked 3 November 2026.
- Eligibility and supporting documentation | Current students | The University of Melbourne, The University of Melbourne. Checked 3 November 2026.
- Special consideration | Current students | The University of Melbourne, The University of Melbourne. Checked 3 November 2026.