So you’ve completed your exam and you have reason to believe that you did horrible. Well, it’s not to late to get re-connected… to the test, the professor, to the class, to the opportunity and maybe even a shred of your dignity. It’s a call for ‘all hands on deck’ and you may need all of the life-saving devices available. Here are some tips that can help you in this particular situation.

Let’s assume that you received a grade that you feel is either undeserving or you feel like you could’ve done better on the last exam. Simply meet with your professor and in a calm, humbling matter request a retake of the exam. Keep in mind that it will be to your professors discretion. However, if you explain your reasons in a polite matter your professor might decide to provide you with a retake.  Also, be willing to provide a compelling reason for requesting retake. Having gone to a party the night before is not a compelling reason, I assure you.

There are two things to keep in mind when requesting a retake. The first thing to keep in mind when requesting a retake is timing. If you request a retake long after your professor has graded all of the papers, your chances are slim to none. If you think you will need a retake, its best to request one immediately after the exam. In other words, once a professor finishes grading all of the exams they may find it unethical to give you another crack at the exam. Also, professors are human too, which means they want to get on with their life too. They don’t want to spend their personal time grading exam that should’ve been done some time ago.

The second thing to keep in mind when requesting a retake is your current standing. If you have no chance of passing the class, it’s best not to ask for a retake. However, if you are just shy of the grade that you desire, it’s a good idea to request a retake. In this case, your professor will probably be less reluctant to issue a retake because you are so close.

So what if your professors said no to a retake? If you have reason to believe that you have a case for still getting the grade that you need, you can appeal your grade. Keep in mind that every institution has their own policy around this topic. This is not a card that you should play often. I repeat this is not a card that you should play often because you will need an incredible amount of evidence that will assist you in the process of getting a different grade. In other words, even if you have all of your previously graded test, attendance and participation still needs to be accounted for. There are many students that do well on homework assignments and test, however, because of their lack of attendance and/or participation, they fail to get the grade that they desire. When seeking an appeal be ready to fully justify your reasoning for another grade. Otherwise, your request may result in wasted time, effort and no grade change. I think appeals should only be necessary if your graduation is on the line.

Get Connected. Stay Connected. Graduate.
Tawan

About the Author: Tawan Perry (36 Posts)

Tawan Perry is the creator of the comprehensive Connect-5 College Completion Program. As a college speaker and as both a former student leader and college administrator, Tawan uses the Connect-5 College Completion program to help guide students step by step from college prep to cap and gown.