The procedure for the resolution of student academic complaints comprises a four-step process. The first two steps comprise an informal attempt at resolution by a discussion between the disagreeing parties (Step 1) and an attempt to resolve the dispute through meeting with the program director, assistant program director, program administrator, or academic advisor of the student's academic program (Step 2). The student is encouraged to consult with the division ombudsperson throughout this process for advisement on approaching the complaint with the faculty member and clarification of the resolution process. If resolution is not achieved informally, Steps 3 and 4 comprise the formal resolution process. The formal resolution process entails the student submitting a letter of complaint and a form that verifies attempts were made at an informal resolution to the Associate Dean, the Associate Dean reviewing and perhaps requesting additional information about the complaint, meeting with the student to discuss the complaint and hearing process, and requesting information from and meeting with other relevant parties (Step 3); and a hearing by an impartial panel comprised of members of the GSEP Appeals Committee (Step 4). Attempts at informal resolution are required prior to entering the formal resolution process. It is expected that most conflicts will be resolved by the disagreeing parties (Step 1) or through the specific complaint resolution procedures established by the relevant academic program (Step 2). Only rare cases should require the involvement of the Appeals Committee acting as an impartial hearing panel (Step 4).

The four-step procedure outlined above applies to all GSEP academic programs and to all types of academic complaints originating from students. Academic complaints include issues impacting student grades and status in the program.

For the academic complaint protocol and any other grade-related policies, please consult the catalog.