Fee reversals: what you need to know
Extenuating circumstances may allow for a reversal of tuition fees for incomplete units - here's how to go about it
The MGA has an advocacy service staffed by 4 advocates and a senior advocate who help students with all kinds of concerns. Lately, many coursework and research students have been asking our advocates about the meaning of “special, exceptional or compelling circumstances”.
Yang: a case study
Last semester, Yang encountered a very difficult personal matter and as a result was unable to complete several units. Since Yang had not withdrawn from these subjects before the census date, he was in a bind. In order to have the fees reversed by the University, he would have to demonstrate that there were 'special circumstances'. As per Monash's policy, he would have to show that his special circumstances:
- were beyond his control; and
- did not make their full impact on him until the census date or after; and
- made it impracticable for him to complete the unit requirements of the unit during the teaching period.
Yang contacted the MGA's advocacy team for advice. What did all this mean in practical terms? His advocate informed him that his online application must include the following:
- a demonstration that his circumstances met all of the mandatory criteria
- his reasons for not being able to complete the units or provide evidence at the time
- medical certificates and travel documents substantiating circumstances outside of his control occurring after the census date
- a written statement of the events in chronological order to provide a comprehensive understanding for the University to review.
This way, Yang was able to put forward the best case that he could make for himself. Although he was a coursework student, graduate research students can also encounter these challenges at times.
Monash's policy on 'special circumstances' and remission of debt can be found here.
You can apply for a fee reversal here.
If you find yourself facing a similar dilemma to Yang, get in touch with our advocacy service at mga-advocacy@monash.edu. Our advocacy service is free, confidential and completely independent from the University.