Extenuating Circumstances (ECs)
Many students experience unexpected issues at some point in their course that can get in the way of meeting deadlines. When that happens, it’s reassuring to know that Falmouth University has a clear process to help you request short extensions or additional time so you’re not disadvantaged.
What Are Extenuating Circumstances (ECs)?
Extenuating Circumstances are short‑term, exceptional, and unavoidable issues that affect your ability to complete or submit assessed work. They must:
- Be outside your control
- Have a clear negative impact on your ability to study or submit work
- Be short‑term (lasting no more than 2 weeks)
- Be evidenced — unless you use a self‑certified extension
ECs don’t give you extra marks- they only give you extra time or remove late penalties.
When Should You Use ECs?
You can use ECs when you:
- Can’t complete an assessment by the deadline
- Need extra time because of an unexpected issue
- Need a late penalty removed if you submitted in the grace period
ECs cannot be used for:
- Improving already‑submitted work (if you submit, you’re saying you were well enough to submit)
- Long‑term or ongoing issues covered by an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) -you should use your ILP for Adjusted Deadlines instead
Types of ECs
A. Self-Certified EC (Short Extension)
Good for minor, short-term issues like a sudden illness.
- No third‑party evidence required
- Gives you 5 working days (1 week) extra
- You can use this twice per academic year
- You must still explain what happened and why it affected you
B. Standard EC (Longer Extension)
Used when the issue is more serious, or you need more time.
- Requires supporting evidence
- Gives you 10 working days (2 weeks) extra
- You can apply for multiple assessments in one request
- You cannot stack an EC extension on top of another EC for the same issue.
Evidence Requirements
ILPs (Individual Learning Plans) vs ECs
If you already have an ILP with adjusted deadlines, you should use those first.
- Activate ILP deadlines through the MyFalmouth ILP tile
- ECs can still be used if a new, unrelated issue arises
If your condition meets the definition of disability, you may qualify for an ILP instead of repeated ECs.
What If You Miss Your EC Deadline?
If you miss your new (extended) deadline:
- It will be recorded as a non‑submission
- You should speak to a Student Advisor or Personal Tutor urgently
- Referral, Retake, Intermitting studies, or a Health & Wellbeing Support for Study plan are all options that may be discussed depending on circumstances.
What Happens If You Submit Anyway?
- If you submit on time, your EC is void - you can’t use the extension later
- If you submit while waiting for a decision, that submission stands
- Once submitted, you usually cannot make an EC claim afterwards
How to Apply for ECs (Step-by-Step)
- Log into MyFalmouth
- Click on the Extenuating Circumstances tile
- Start your application and describe what happened
- Upload supporting evidence (if doing a standard EC)
- Submit before or shortly after the deadline
- You’ll receive an email confirming the outcome
You can apply up to 4 weeks before your deadline.
Useful Resources:
Tips from Your Students’ Union
- Don’t wait until the last minute - apply as early as possible
- Keep evidence and emails (screenshots are okay if clear and dated)
- If you’re unsure which option to choose, speak to us at SU Advice or the EC team
- If your situation is long-term or repeating, ask about an ILP
- Submitting means you’re saying you’re “fit to submit” - think carefully
Getting advice
Book an appointment with one of our advisers using the link below. Or email advice@thesu.org.uk
Book an appointment