You may apply for an exemption in relation to a number of regulations, for example the rule limiting you to three examination attempts, the maximum duration of study, or a change of programme or electives. Please note, however, that Absalon will normally only grant an exemption where there are “exceptional circumstances”.

The term “exceptional circumstances” cannot be defined precisely, and Absalon will always make a concrete assessment of the specific circumstances in relation to the exemption being applied for.

As a general rule, an “exceptional circumstance” will typically be an external factor, not of a “routine” nature, which the student had no influence over and could neither prevent nor reasonably plan around. The circumstance must be relevant to the exemption sought and must have had, or still have, an impact on the student’s ability to comply with the normal regulations.

It will normally be a condition for the granting of an exemption that you can provide documentation of the exceptional circumstance.

If you require guidance regarding your options for applying for an exemption, you are welcome to contact the student guidance service or the study administration.

When applying for an exemption, you must write to the study administration for your programme. Contact details for the study administration can be found here.

Examples of exceptional circumstances include:

• You are, or have been, ill and can provide medical documentation. The illness must have occurred at a time and of a severity corresponding to the exemption you are applying for.

• Documented illness in your immediate family.

• Death in your immediate family.

• Childbirth.

• A sudden worsening of a chronic illness.

• Other personal circumstances, usually beyond your control.

• Civic duties, such as serving as a lay judge or juror, may also fall under this category.

What does not constitute an exceptional circumstance?
Study abroad, any form of employment, holidays, etc. are not regarded as exceptional circumstances.

Neither is it considered an exceptional circumstance that a subject is difficult, or that you are otherwise underperforming in your studies.

Are chronic illnesses considered exceptional circumstances?
Chronic illness is not in itself regarded as an exceptional circumstance. This is because you are expected to plan around the challenges posed by your chronic illness.

However, if your chronic illness suddenly worsens — for example, if you suffer an “attack” in connection with an examination — this may be regarded as an exceptional circumstance.

If you are dyslexic, dyscalculic, have a diagnosed mental health condition, or a physical disability that prevents you from completing an exam in the standard form, you may apply for special examination arrangements.

In connection with a chronic illness, you may also apply for special educational support (SPS) for your studies.