What Can I Do If I Feel The Grading System Is Biased Or Unfair In My Academic Institution?

If you feel the grading system is biased or unfair at your academic institution, you have several options to address the issue:

• Review the Grading Policy: First, carefully review the institution’s grading policies, criteria, and rubrics to ensure that your concerns are based on actual discrepancies or misunderstandings. This will help clarify if the grading process is truly unfair or if there is simply confusion about how assessments are evaluated.
• Speak With the Instructor: Approach the professor or instructor who graded your work and politely express your concerns. Ask for clarification on how your grade was determined, and request feedback on areas where you may have lost points. Often, direct communication can resolve misunderstandings.
• File a Formal Appeal: If you're not satisfied with the explanation or feel that the grading is unjust, you can file a formal appeal with the department or academic institution. This may involve submitting a written complaint and outlining your concerns, referencing specific grading criteria or instances of bias.
• Check for Discrimination or Bias: If you suspect that the grading is biased due to personal characteristics (such as race, gender, or ethnicity), you may be experiencing discrimination. Most universities have procedures to handle complaints of discrimination, so investigate your rights under anti-discrimination policies.
• Utilize Student Advocacy Services: Many academic institutions have student unions, ombudsman offices, or advocacy groups that can help mediate complaints about grading. These services may guide you through the appeal process and provide support in addressing your concerns.
• Seek a Second Opinion: In some cases, universities offer a mechanism for having your work regraded by a different instructor or an academic board. This can provide an impartial review of the grade and may help resolve disputes over fairness.
• Legal Action (Last Resort): If your attempts to resolve the issue internally fail, and you believe the grading system violates your rights (such as discrimination or breach of contract), you may have the option to seek legal counsel. A lawyer specialized in education law can advise on the next steps, including the possibility of litigation.

Example

A student feels that their grade in a history course was unfair because they received a lower mark despite following the assignment guidelines carefully. After speaking with the professor, they still feel the grade was unjust. The student then files a formal appeal with the department, presenting evidence of their work meeting the grading criteria, and the grade is eventually revised following a review by a different instructor.