You might've heard the term 'IMC' before, but what does it really mean? Let's help you debunk the term once and for all so you can understand how IMCs might be able to help you.
Q: What is an IMC?
The 'Individual Mitigating Circumstances' process helps students tell their Department that something unexpected & significant is either preventing them from taking an assessment or might affect their performance. There's a good webpage explaining the process on the University website: www.bath.ac.uk/guides/submitting-an-individual-mitigating-circumstances-imc-claim/#what-are-individual-mitigating-circumstances-imcs
Q: How do I know an IMC is right for my situation?
The University have published some examples of situations when IMCs are usually accepted on this webpage: www.bath.ac.uk/guides/reasons-and-evidence-for-requesting-a-coursework-extension-or-imc/
If you're unsure, you can ask an SU Advisor for free & confidential advice about whether an IMC is appropriate for your situation.
Q: Are all students eligible to apply for an IMC?
Yes, although IMCs can't be used for postgraduate dissertations when a coursework extension is usually more appropriate. The important thing to remember is IMCs are only accepted when something unexpected & significant occurs. If you'd like to know more about coursework extensions, please visit www.bath.ac.uk/guides/coursework-extensions/ or speak to an SU Advisor for confidential advice on your situation.
Q: How do I submit an IMC request?
IMCs are time sensitive, so you need to download & submit an IMC report to your Director of Studies as soon as possible from: www.bath.ac.uk/publications/individual-mitigating-circumstances-report-form/.
If the IMC is relevant for one assessment, you must submit the form no later than 3 days after the assessment deadline. If the IMC relates to multiple assessments, you must submit it no later than 3 days after the end of the assessment period.
An SU Advisor can give you free & confidential feedback on your draft & explain the process for submission.
Q: If an IMC is accepted, what happens?
There are several possible outcomes, so it's best to speak to your Director of Studies who will tell you what's most likely for you.
There are 6 examples on the University IMC webpage, including resitting an assessment as if for the first time or making an exception to the usual progression criteria, explained here: www.bath.ac.uk/guides/individual-mitigating-circumstances-imcs-and-your-outcomes/.
Q: My friend is struggling, is it right for me to suggest they submit an IMC?
If someone discloses something unexpected & significant has happened to them or someone close to them then an IMC might be appropriate.
For example, their health has unexpectedly declined, they faced unexpected housing disruption or someone close to them has passed away. You should encourage them to speak to their Director of Studies or an SU Advisor. If they've been struggling with an issue for a while, they can still speak to their Director of Studies or it might be helpful to talk to the University Wellbeing Advisors.
We hope you now feel more informed about what IMCs are and when and how to use them.
Please email us on: suadvice@bath.ac.uk if you have further questions or you need guidance.