Show Cause process and Exclusion

The University monitors your academic progress as per the UniSQ Student Academic Progress Procedure. You will receive a Notice of Intention to Exclude and will be required to Show Cause if you have been identified as a Stage 3: At Risk of Exclusion student.

The ‘Show Cause’ process is a formal process that allows you to present your case by the date outlined in your communication as to why you should not be excluded from study. If you do not submit a Show Cause response, you will be automatically excluded from study for 12 months.

Your Show Cause submission is your opportunity to outline any circumstances beyond your control that prevented you from performing to your full academic potential. You will need to explain in detail the circumstances that negatively impacted your ability to study effectively, and provide supporting evidence.

The aim of the Show Cause response is to:

1. Outline the circumstances that have negatively affected your studies.
2. Describe how these circumstances impacted you and the steps taken to resolve the circumstances.
3. Describe the action you took to improve your studies when you were identified as a Stage 2: Assisted Student.
4. Describe the actions you will take and the services you will access that may help you improve your studies.
5. Provide any evidence to support your claim. Examples of circumstances and supporting documentation may be found in the Assessment of Special Circumstances Procedure.

The Show Cause Guidelines include a general guide on the type of supporting documentation and the strategies you may implement to improve your studies.

Progression Officers - If you would like to discuss the Show Cause notice or outcome, please remember that the Progression Officers are here to help. You can book an appointment at a time that suits you.

Student Guild - The UniSQ Student Guild provides free independent and confidential support for students and can assist you with compiling your Show Cause response, and/or the Appeals process.

Support for Learning - Our Wellness team are a group of experienced professionals who provide free confidential counselling services to help you with a range of matters and increase your sense of wellbeing.

You must submit your response via the Show Cause form link in your Notice of Intention to Exclude communication by the deadline. You may continue studying while your Show Cause submission is being processed.

If circumstances make it impossible to submit your Show Cause response by the deadline, please contact the Progression team as soon as possible prior to the due date outlining the reason you require an extension. An extension will be considered but is not guaranteed.

The University commences assessment of your Show Cause as soon as practicable after receipt, and will finalise the outcome within 10 University business days. 

The outcome of your Show Cause is determined through a holistic assessment of your submission and your academic records, including but not limited to:

• Circumstances outlined in your Show Cause statement 
• Identified and implemented strategies for academic improvement 
• Supporting documentation
• Have you actively sought support from the University? 
• Academic history

Once your Show Cause response has been assessed, you will receive the outcome via email to your student Umail account. It is important to read the communication carefully and take any necessary action outlined in your outcome letter.

Exclusion means your enrolment will be cancelled and you will not be able to enrol for the exclusion period. You will need to apply for readmission after the exclusion period is complete. 

If you disagree with the outcome, you have the right to Academic Appeal within 20 University Business Days as outlined in the Student Grievance Resolution Procedure. If you require assistance with the Appeals process, please contact the UniSQ Student Guild.