Grade Grievance Policy

Physician Assistant students may appeal a final grade or evaluation based on concerns about discrimination or the process used to assign the grade. The process is as follows:

1. The first appeal should be in writing and submitted within two weeks of the grade release directly to the Course/Section Director, as applicable. The appeal should include any documentation that explains why the grade should be changed.  In the event that the complaint involves the course director, the written concern should be submitted to the PSPC committee chair. If the concern involves the PSPC committee chair, the student will be assigned to another PA Faculty Course Director.
2. A secondary appeal may be submitted as a written explanation of the grievance within two (2) weeks of the determination of the first appeal to the Associate Program Director, who will assemble the Grade Grievance Committee. The Grade Grievance Committee will consist of the Chair of the PSPC or designee, and 2 faculty familiar with the PA program who are not involved in the same course/ as the grievance.  The faculty members of the Grade Grievance Committee are appointed by the Associate Program Director.
3. The Grade Grievance Committee will submit a recommendation to the Associate Program Director and the PSPC who will review the report and provide the response to the student.
4. The decision of the Associate Program Director is final.

If the student is not satisfied with the outcome:

1. The second line of appeal is to the Director of the School of PA Studies. The second appeal should be submitted in writing within two weeks of the first appeal decision. The Director may:

• Affirm the decision of the Course/Section Director
• Uphold the appeal
• Return the issue to the Course/Section Director for further consideration.

Grade grievances aligns with UF policy (UF Regulation 4.012).

The UF Office of the Ombuds is another resource for students with a university related problem and/or concern.