Complaints & Appeals
A clear pathway for students to raise concerns, seek clarification and request appropriate review of academic or university matters.
Students should have an appropriate way to communicate concerns and seek review when they believe an issue requires further consideration.
Raising a Concern
THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF HIGHER EDUCATION recognizes that questions, concerns and disagreements may arise during a student’s academic experience. Students are encouraged to communicate concerns promptly so that the appropriate university office can understand the issue and provide guidance.
Where a formal complaint or appeal process applies, students should follow the applicable university policy and provide the information required for the matter to be reviewed appropriately.
How to Raise a Concern
Understand the Issue
Identify the decision, action or concern that you would like the university to review.
Seek Clarification
Where appropriate, contact the relevant university office or support resource to clarify the matter.
Submit Information
Provide a clear description of the concern together with relevant information or supporting documentation.
Await Review
Allow the appropriate university office time to review the matter and provide further guidance or a response.
When an Appeal May Be Appropriate
Academic Decisions
Some academic decisions may be subject to an established review or appeal process under applicable university policies.
Administrative Matters
Students may seek clarification or review of certain administrative matters when an appropriate process is available.
Policy-Based Review
Where a university policy provides a formal appeal mechanism, students should follow the requirements and procedures stated in that policy.
A Constructive Approach to Resolution
Open communication and a fair review process help resolve concerns responsibly and support a stronger academic community.
THE A.U. encourages students to communicate respectfully and provide accurate information when raising concerns. The university seeks to handle student matters through appropriate channels and in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.
Prepare Your Concern Clearly
Describe the Matter
Explain clearly what happened and identify the issue you would like addressed.
Include Relevant Details
Provide relevant dates, communications, course or administrative information and other appropriate details.
State Your Request
Explain what clarification, review or resolution you are seeking.
Keep Records
Keep copies of relevant communications and documents connected with your concern or appeal.
Need Help Understanding Where to Start?
Student Support
Student support can help direct you toward the appropriate resource when you are unsure where to begin with an academic or administrative concern.
Contact THE A.U.
If you need clarification about where to submit a concern or appeal, contact the university for guidance.
Know Your Rights & Responsibilities
Academic Policies
Review the academic standards and expectations that guide student academic progress.
Academic Integrity
Understand the principles of honesty, responsibility and integrity expected in academic work.
Student Handbook
Review broader student responsibilities, university resources and important guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about THE A.U. and the student experience.
Our Commitment to Responsible Communication
Listen
Student concerns should be communicated through appropriate channels so they can be understood and considered.
Review
Matters should be directed to the appropriate university office or process for review.
Respond
Where appropriate, students should receive information about the outcome or next steps associated with their concern.
A University Built on Responsible Academic Practice
THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF HIGHER EDUCATION connects flexible higher education with a university identity rooted in Washington, D.C., while supporting clear communication and responsible academic practices.
Washington, D.C.
Have a Question or Concern?
Start by contacting THE A.U. or reviewing the student resources and policies available to you.
