Speaking to a Counsellor can help you deal with any psychological or emotional issues which may be impeding your studies. A Counsellor will also be able to verify whether you have been disadvantaged by these issues and assist you in applying for special consideration.

The following is taken from Swinburne’s Assessment and Results Policy, Section 5.2 Special Consideration.

"To be eligible for Special Consideration students must show that their studies have been adversely affected by illness, misadventure or other extraordinary cause or circumstance reasonably beyond their control. All applications will be considered only where one of these grounds has been shown…

"All applications for special consideration must be submitted on the University’s Special Consideration form. If the application for special consideration is made on medical grounds, the form must be completed, stamped and signed by a medical authority.

"If the application for special consideration is made on other grounds, supporting documentation such as a Police report or letter from a counsellor must be attached to the form…"

Time limits also apply in lodging applications for special consideration.

The best solution is to make sure you get the support you need for any difficulties that are affecting your studies as soon as they arise, so that your academic results will not be affected. Your Teacher/Lecturer may also be able to help you out with regard assignment extensions or exemptions, so it is worth speaking with them about your difficulties as well.