Requesting Exception to University Policy
Students are responsible for complying with all University regulations and deadlines. Pertinent information regarding registration policies, procedures, deadlines, and changes can be found online in the Student Handbook and Academic Calendars.
The University is also obligated to ensure the integrity of the transcript as an historical document. Therefore, the transcript must reflect the actual history of a student's experience at the University. Students are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of their class schedule each term via the Campus Information Services.
An exception to University policy is warranted only in cases involving unusual or extenuating circumstances that would normally not be faced by other students. Modification of the record for sake of appearance does not constitute a justification for exception to policy.
Notice:
- Students are responsible for all tuition and fees associated with any approved changes to their academic record. (i.e., class(es) added, change in credit hours, etc.).
- A $50 late processing fee is charged per class for all retroactive add requests that are approved. A final grade must be submitted by the college for each class that is approved to be retroactively added.
- Approval of a retroactive withdrawal does not waive tuition. Inquiries regarding tuition should be directed to the Bursar's Office, 175 Student Services Building, 801.581.7344.
Types of Petitions
There are different types of Exception to University Policy requests that may be considered below:
Procedures for Filing Petitions:
- Complete the Petition for Consideration of Exception to Policy form and prepare a written statement describing your request for an exception to policy. Please note that some colleges require you to initiate the process through an electronic form or portal.
- Gather and include any supporting documentation for your request. Corroborating materials should include dates that align with the academic term of your petition. Appropriate documentation may include letters from physicians or faculty, Center for Disability and Access, Dean of Students, Counseling Center, obituaries, etc. Letters must be written on official letterhead and include date and signature to be valid.
- Petition requests must be submitted within three years of the affected term(s) or prior to graduation from the University, whichever comes first.
- FINANCIAL AID RECIPIENTS are required to meet with a financial aid counselor to review possible impacts if the petition is approved.
- INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS on an F1 or J1 visa who are requesting a withdrawal that will take them below full-time status must obtain additional support from the International Student & Scholar Services Office.
- Obtain a letter of support from your college dean’s office designee if you are an undergraduate student, or from your committee chairperson if you are a graduate student. You may need to schedule an appointment and meet with the dean or designee before a letter can be written on your behalf. Your college dean’s office will submit the completed petition to the Office of the Registrar on your behalf.
- Allow a minimum of two weeks for the petition to be reviewed. You will be notified of the committee’s decision by email to your UMail account. Decisions cannot be released over the phone.
Other Appeal Processes
The exception to policy process is not the appropriate way to address issues with: a grade assigned to a course, your cumulative grade point average, academic suspension, or removing tuition charges. Here are some other appeal processes that address the issues above.
Contact Us
Office: 801-581-5808
Fax: 801-585-7860
Email: registrar@utah.edu
Mailing Address
University of Utah
Office of the Registrar
201 South 1460 East, Room 250N
Salt Lake City, Utah 84112-9056
Campus Address
250N Student Services Building [MAP]