Marking, Moderation and External Examiners

Assessment methods for each module are approved as part of the course approval process. This involves:

• Academic staff from the University
• External advisors from other universities

This process ensures that assessments:

• Are set at the correct academic level
• Match the module learning outcomes
• Are appropriate to the course content

In addition, the External Examiner for each module or programme approves all draft examination questions.

The University aims to return marked coursework and feedback within 20 working days of submission. This excludes public holidays, University closure days and exceptional circumstances.

Depending on the type of assessment, feedback may be provided sooner. Timely feedback is designed to help you improve your academic skills and prepare for future assessments.

You can find further help in the Working with feedback guidance.

All module marks are provisional until they have been confirmed by the University Assessment Board.

You will be notified through ICON once your marks are confirmed. Because marks may change as a result of moderation, it is important to check your confirmed results once they are released.

How Marking and Moderation Works

Taught Modules (excluding dissertations and theses)

For most modules, a representative sample of work across all grade ranges is reviewed by a second marker.

• The second marker uses the same marking criteria and grading scheme
• They can see the first marker’s feedback and mark
• If both marks fall in the same grade band (for example, both are within a B grade), the original mark stands

If the two markers award marks in different grade bands, a third marker is used. The final mark will be the one closest to the third marker’s judgement.

Dissertations and Theses

Dissertations and theses are blind double‑marked:

• The second marker does not see the first marker’s feedback or mark
• Both markers independently apply the marking criteria
• A final provisional mark is agreed to ensure consistency across the student group

If the two markers cannot agree, a third marker is involved.

In all cases, feedback is provided by the first marker, and this is when your provisional mark is released.

Non Text‑Based Assessments

For assessments without physical written evidence (such as performances, presentations or practical work), suitable arrangements are made to support moderation. This may include:

• Joint observation by markers
• Audio or video recordings of the assessment

These methods ensure that marking is fair and open to internal and external review.

When a module is taught at more than one campus, samples of work from each site are moderated.

This ensures that students are not advantaged or disadvantaged by differences in marking practices across locations.

External Examiners are a key part of maintaining academic standards across UK higher education. Every programme has at least one External Examiner.

External Examiners are:

• Independent academic or professional experts
• Appointed from other universities, industry or professional practice

Their role includes:

• Reviewing samples of assessed work
• Checking consistency and fairness of marking
• Ensuring standards align with UK higher education expectations

External Examiners do not change individual student marks. If they identify concerns, the University will review all relevant work to ensure fairness for every student.

Each year, External Examiners write a report commenting on assessment standards and processes.