Appeals procedure for entry into LLB Part II-IV

The overriding principle governing this procedure is that the appeal process can only consider matters of process related to the prescribed application procedure. It cannot consider matters of professional judgement.

Appeals will be considered from the following categories:

  • Late applications for LLB Part II-IV
  • Unsuccessful applications to LLB Part II-IV

Late applications for LLB Part II-IV
If an extenuating circumstance prevented you from applying for LLB Part II by 1 December of the year prior to which you are applying, you may submit an appeal for a late application to be accepted.

Unsuccessful applications to LLB Part II-IV
An unsuccessful applicant to LLB Part II may appeal to the Law School for a reconsideration of their application. For advice on the appeal procedures, please contact Law student support.   

The Appeals Process 

The appeals process will have three stages. 

1.     Stage 1 Appeal
Applicants wishing to appeal their unsuccessful application or submit an appeal for consideration of a late application must appeal in writing stating the grounds for their appeal. The appeal must be addressed to the Associate Dean (Academic) or nominee. The appeal must be emailed to lawstudentsupport@auckland.ac.nz.

The email should contain the following documentation in support of the Stage 1 Appeal:

  • Letter addressed to the Associate Dean (Academic) or nominee stating the grounds for the appeal
  •  An unofficial transcript of the student
  • Other relevant documents that will support the appeal 

The Stage 1 Appeal must be submitted by 8 January year of admission before 12 noon

The Associate Dean (Academic) or nominee will then review the application and will respond to the applicant in writing with the outcome. The process may include an interview where appropriate. The written response will include details of the next stage of appeal should they wish to pursue the matter further.

2.     Stage 2 Appeal
Applicants wishing to pursue a further appeal regarding their unsuccessful application or late application must submit their appeal in writing. The Stage 2 Appeal must be addressed to the Deputy Dean of the Auckland Law School. The Stage 2 Appeal must be emailed to lawstudentsupport@auckland.ac.nz.

The email requesting the Stage 2 Appeal must include the following documentation in support of the appeal:

  • The letter from the Associate Dean (Academic) or nominee that indicated decision of the Stage 1 Appeal
  • The appeal letter to the Deputy Dean stating the grounds for the Stage 2 Appeal

The Stage 2 Appeal must be submitted by 25 January year of admission before 12 noon. 

The Deputy Dean will convene a meeting of the Faculty Appeals Committee which may be in person or via electronic means. The applicant will receive a written response detailing the outcome to their appeal.  

3.     Stage 3 Appeal (Final) 
Per the Resolution of Student Academic Complaints and Disputes Statute, Clause 4 ‘Right of Review’ which states: 

Complainants may request a review of the Dean’s decision to the DVC (A) or duly authorised delegate, on the grounds that:

  • There was a failure of the University’s process, and/or
  • The basis of the decision was manifestly at odds with the evidence. 

The decision of the DVC(A) on such requests is final.