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Academic Policies & Procedures

Sometimes you need to request an exception to standard academic policies, file a formal petition or navigate a grievance process. This page covers the procedures for academic petitions, course permits and student grievances so you know where to go and what documentation you need.

Academic Petitions & Course Permits

What is an Academic Petition?

Academic petitions allow you to request exceptions to standard academic policies or degree requirements. These are typically used for situations such as:

  • Course substitutions
  • Prerequisite waivers
  • Retroactive withdrawals
  • Appeals for policy exceptions

What is a Course Permit?

Course permits allow you to enroll in courses outside of standard registration rules, such as:

  • Taking a restricted or full course
  • Enrolling in a course outside your major
  • Registering for graduate-level coursework (when eligible)

Approval Process

  • Petitions and permits require review and approval from your academic advisor, department chair or college administration, depending on the request.

Start early—some requests can take several weeks to review and process.

How to File a Petition or Permit Request

  • Meet with your academic advisor: Discuss your situation and confirm whether a petition or course permit is appropriate.
  • Understand requirements: Your advisor will help you review the process, required documentation, and what to expect.
  • Prepare your request: Most petitions require a written explanation describing your situation and how the request supports your academic progress.
  • Submit through the proper channel: Submit completed forms through your advisor or department—do not send directly to college administration unless instructed.
  • Plan ahead for review time: Allow 2–4 weeks for processing and approval.
Learn more about undergraduate academic petitions

Student Grievances

If you believe you've been treated unfairly in an academic matter — including grading disputes, course policies or academic integrity proceedings — you have the right to file a formal grievance. The grievance process provides a structured way to raise concerns, present your case and seek resolution through appropriate channels. Grievances must be filed within specific timeframes following university policy, so act quickly if you believe you have grounds for a complaint.

When to File a Grievance

File a grievance if you believe an academic decision was unfair, inconsistent with policy or based on discrimination or bias. This includes grading disputes, academic integrity findings or course-related policies.

Steps to File

Start by attempting to resolve the issue directly with the instructor or department. If resolution fails, consult with your academic advisor and review the university’s grievance procedures. File formal documentation within the required timeframe.

College Dismissal Appeals

Students in the W.S. Lee College of Engineering are expected to maintain good academic standing throughout their enrollment. Students who do not maintain good academic standing will no longer be eligible to enroll in courses offered by the W.S. Lee College of Engineering.

To appeal this decision, students should follow the appeal procedures established by the Office of Student Development and Success (for students advised by OSDS) or by their academic department.

OSDS APpeal Form
Civil Engineering Appeal Form
Electrical and Computer Engineering Appeal Form
Industrial and Systems Engineering Appeal Form
Mechanical Engineering Appeal Form

Albert School of Construction and School of Energy: Contact your academic advisor

Questions About Petitions or Grievances?

Your academic advisor can help you understand petition and grievance procedures, determine whether your situation warrants formal action and guide you through the process.

Contact Your Advisor