You can register for an exam up to three times. The limit on exam attempts also applies to courses with the same academic content (e.g. where a course has been assigned a new course code).
If you apply for admission to the same study programme again, the limit on exam attempts will still apply, as exam attempts are linked to you as a student and not to a specific study programme.
Fourth examination attempt
Section 6-3 (5) of the Regulations on Examinations, Study Rights and Degrees at Østfold University of Applied Sciences states:
“In special cases and on the basis of a written, well-grounded, and documented application, exemptions may be granted for a third attempt at practical training or a fourth examination attempt if the student has not achieved a pass grade in the course after three examination attempts.”
What constitutes a “special case”?
Whether a case qualifies as a special case is determined through an overall assessment of the factors listed below. The term does not cover situations already addressed by other provisions of the Regulations on Examinations, Study Rights and Degrees at Østfold University of Applied Sciences.
This means that if you are ill, under significant pressure, or in a life situation that prevents you from sitting the exam, you must either withdraw from the exam before the deadline or submit a medical certificate or other documentation supporting valid absence in order to avoid using an exam attempt.
What is considered when assessing an application?
Several factors are taken into account, including:
- How far you have progressed in your studies.
- How your three previous examination attempts were used (for example, failure, non-attendance, or other circumstances).
- Whether the study programme is being phased out.
- Lack of academic guidance or support from Østfold University of Applied Sciences.
- Any previously unidentified needs for alternative examination arrangements.
- Whether the course is compulsory or elective.
- Whether the course can be taken at another institution.
- Whether you have been admitted to a study programme or are only taking individual courses.
This list is not exhaustive, and applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis using professional judgement. Please note that exemptions allowing a fourth exam attempt are granted only in exceptional circumstances.
The provision regarding a fourth exam attempt is intended as a narrow exception. It serves as a safeguard in situations where the general rule limiting students to three attempts would otherwise lead to unreasonable consequences.
How to apply
If you wish to apply for a fourth exam attempt, you must use the form for submitting sensitive information.
Apply for a fourth exam attempt
NB! Your application must include a justification and any supporting documentation, where available.
Would you like to know more?
Read more in the Regulations on Examinations, Study Rights and Degrees, Chapter 6