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.
External Examiner Handbook and Relevant Resources
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 2023-24 (Opens in SharePoint)
External Examiner Handbook 2024-25 (PDF)
Standards and assessment practices are set within the framework of the University regulations, including the Ordinances, Academic Regulations, Code of Practice on Assessment and specifications for programmes and modules.
Ordinances (Link to Relevant Website Page)
Academic Regulations for Taught Programmes (Link to Relevant Website Page)
Code of Practice on Assessment (Link to Relevant Website Page)
Programme and Module Assessment (Link to Relevant Website Page)
Annual Reports
Each year external examiners are required to submit an annual report to the Quality Assurance Team within six weeks of the relevant Progression and Awards Board. A template is provided to ensure consistency of the reports.
External Examiner Report Form 2023-24 (Word)
Annual Fees and Expenses
External examiners are paid an annual fee upon receipt of the annual report. Fee rates are detailed in the Schedule of Payments annex in the External Examiner Handbook. External examiners can also claim reasonable travel and subsistence expenses. Valid expenses will be reimbursed by the relevant school or teaching unit, which will provide the necessary claim forms.
Guidance for External Examiners
An introduction to the role is available for incoming external examiners. The purpose of the introduction is to explain the remit and duties of the external examiner role at the University and to explain the University’s structure, regulations and assessment procedures.
Introduction to the External Examiner Role (Opens in Sway)
Appointment Requests and Guidance for Staff
Guidance and relevant documentation for staff is available on the Quality Assurance SharePoint. This includes forms for nominations, amendments of duties and extensions of appointment periods.
External Examining on Quality Assurance SharePoint (Opens in SharePoint)
External Examining Document Library (Opens in SharePoint)