How It Works

Guide to Using the Newman Extension and Deferral Portal
(Under the Additional Consideration Policy)

The new portal makes it easier for you to request more time or support if you’re struggling to meet an assessment deadline. Below is a summary of the options available and how to use them.

1. Short-Term Extensions (up to 2 weeks)

Automatic 1-Week Extensions
  • You can self-approve up to two 1-week extensions per academic year.
  • These are automatically approved — no evidence or follow-up needed.
  • You must submit the request before the original assessment deadline by clicking the Auto-Approve toggle on the relevant assessment in the portal.
Extensions Requiring Approval

If any of the following apply:

  • You have already used your two automatic extensions, or
  • You need more than 1 week, or
  • You are applying up to 1 week after the deadline,you can apply for a short-term extension of up to 2 weeks.
  • Click the Apply button under the relevant assessment and complete the form.
  • You may be invited to meet with the Student Success Team to discuss how best to support your academic recovery and progress.
⚠️ Some modules only allow 1-week extensions, so check the new extension date carefully once it’s approved.

2. Deferrals (Longer Extensions)

If you need more than 2 weeks, or are applying more than 1 week after the deadline, you can request a Deferral.

  • A deferral moves your assessment to the next available assessment opportunity (often the next resit period).
  • Students requesting a deferral are usually invited to meet with the Student Success Team to discuss their academic recovery and progress.
  • Click Apply, select Deferral, and complete the form.
    • If you are applying one week after the deadline, you can only use the deferral option.
⚠️ Always confirm the exact date and method of a deferral submission with your Programme Team.

3. Other Requests

Use the “Other Requests” link on the portal if you need to:

  • Request a deferral for an examination, resit, or previously deferred assessment (these can only be deferred again — not extended),
  • Request something more complex (such as a change of assessment or a retake of a module or year), or
  • Get advice if you’re unsure which option applies or if you cannot see your assessment listed.

You’ll need to provide details such as your module code and assessment title. You may be invited to meet with Student Success to clarify your request and review your options.

Students with Reasonable Adjustments or Ongoing Conditions

We know that if you have a Reasonable Adjustments Agreement or an ongoing health condition, it can feel frustrating to have to submit a request for each assessment rather than having a blanket extension.

However, the new system ensures your support is accurate, fair, and responsive to your needs.

  1. Each assessment gets the right level of support.
    Every assessment is different. Some may already include flexibility; others have fixed professional deadlines. Applying for each one ensures the correct and fair level of support.
  2. Your support stays active and responsive.
    Circumstances can change. Using the portal helps your Programme and Student Success Teams spot when you might need extra help — not just extra time.
  3. It protects your fairness and academic record.
    The portal provides a transparent, consistent record of decisions, ensuring all students are treated equitably and your adjustments are properly documented.
  4. You stay in control.
    You choose what you need, when you need it — from a quick automatic extension to a longer deferral if your condition flares up.
We understand this might take a little more time, but it ensures every request is properly supported and keeps your studies on track. If your condition makes it difficult to apply on time, please get in touch with the Student Success Team at studentsuccess@newman.ac.uk — they can help you plan ahead or apply on your behalf where appropriate.

Late Applications

The portal can only be used for requests made within four weeks of your original assessment or resit deadline.

If more than four weeks have passed, you’ll need to use the Academic Appeals process instead.

Why?

After four weeks, assessment periods are considered complete, and marks may already be confirmed by assessment boards. At that stage, extensions and deferrals can’t be processed through the portal because this could affect fairness and published results.

What should you do?
  • Submit an Academic Appeal, explaining why you couldn’t apply earlier.
  • Full guidance is available on the Academic Appeals webpage, including how to submit and what independent evidence is required.
What if I have a “capped” mark?

If you have a capped mark (for example, after a resit) and believe this was due to circumstances outside your control, you should also use the Academic Appeals process. This allows your situation to be properly reviewed and, if appropriate, adjustments made to your record.

💡 Tip: If you’re unsure whether your situation falls under the four-week rule, contact the Student Helpdesk or your Programme Team for advice.

Quick Guide: How to Use the Portal

  1. Log in to the Extension & Deferral Portal via this link.
  2. Find your assessment in the list.
  3. Choose one of the following:
    • Auto-Approve (if you still have one of your two automatic 1-week extensions).
    • Apply → complete the short form (for longer extensions or deferrals).
  4. Check your Newman email for confirmation or follow-up from your Programme or Student Success Team.
  5. Review your new deadline or deferral date in the portal once approved.
💬 Need Help? Contact the Student Helpdesk or your Programme Team if you’re unsure which option to choose or need help submitting a request.