Repeat Exam & Capping

 In August 2015, the University’s Academic Standing Committee agreed to introduce capping for repeat exams and assessments. Capping means that when students repeat their exams or assessments, the maximum mark they can be awarded is the pass mark for the module (i.e. 40%). 

There are two exceptions:

• Capping will not apply in the First Year of full-time Undergraduate programmes
• In the case of modules of the MB, BCh, BAO and BSc (Occupational Therapy, Podiatry, and Speech and Language), the maximum mark that may be awarded will be 50%, which is the pass mark for modules on those programmes

For detailed information on how capping applies to your specific programme, read the University Marks and Standards on the Policies & Procedures page.

What does this mean for me?

As a student you should be aware that if you fail an exam or assessment and go on to repeat it, the highest mark you can achieve in that exam or assessment on most programmes is 40%. It is important for undergraduate students to be aware that, with the exception of Medicine, the results of your Pre-Final Year exams and assessments account for 30% of your overall degree. For Medical students entering Fourth Year in 2015/16, your degree will be based on 50% of your mark in Fourth Year and 50% of your mark in Final Year. Therefore, whatever your programme, if you have to repeat in Pre-Final or Final Year it may have a significant impact on your overall degree.

As a staff member you should ensure that students on your programme are aware of capping. It could have a significant impact on their results.

For more details on the implementation of capping, please view the Capping Factsheet