External examiners
External examiners are an essential part of the University's quality assurance processes. The role of the external examiner is to provide assurance to the University that its assessment system is fair and operated equitably, and to ensure comparability of the University's standards with those in peer institutions.
Handbook
The external examiner handbook provides information on University policies and procedures related to external examining, external examiner appointments and duties, and how the University considers external examiner reports.
External Examiner Handbook (PDF)
Appointments
At least one external examiner must be appointed to each taught programme offered by the University. External examiners are normally appointed for four academic years. Nominations should be submitted to the Quality Assurance Team on the external examiner nomination form and be accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae for the nominee. Nominations must be approved by the Chair of the relevant Faculty Taught Student Education Committee.
External Examiner Nomination Form (Word)
Sometimes the duties of an external examiner may need to be amended or the appointment period of an external examiner may need to be extended. If required, schools should submit requests to amend the duties or extend the appointment period of an external examiner to the Quality Assurance Team using the relevant form. The requests must be approved by the Chair of the relevant Faculty Taught Student Education Committee. Please note that approval to extend the appointment of an external examiner for a fifth academic year will only be given in exceptional circumstances.
External Examiner Amendment of Duties Form (Word)
External Examiner Extension of Appointment Period Form (Word)
Reports
Each year external examiners are required to submit an annual report within six weeks of the relevant Progression and Awards Board. A template is provided to ensure consistency of the reports. The Quality Assurance Team will circulate received reports to the relevant schools. Please contact the Quality Assurance Team if you wish to view external examiner reports.
External Examiner Report Form (Word)
Fees and Expenses
Schools are responsible for the payment of fees and expenses to external examiners. External examiners are paid an annual fee upon receipt of the annual report. Fee rates are detailed in the Schedule of Payments. External examiners can also claim reasonable travel and subsistence expenses. Valid expenses will be reimbursed by the relevant school which will provide the necessary claim forms.
Schedule of Payments for External Examiners
Guidance on External Examining
Guidance on external examining is available for colleagues on the Quality Assurance Resources SharePoint. The guidance provides support to colleagues on internal processes relating to external examining.
Guidance and Resources on Quality Assurance Resources SharePoint (Link to SharePoint)