Updates to Academic Framework Regulations 2025/26 and training

Following the recent review of the assessment and feedback policy, there are several updates ahead of the 2025/26 academic year. Staff training is also available on these updates below.

The main changes to the Assessment and Feedback Policy are:

Group work must have an individual element contributing to the assessment grade

Recent commentary from the OfS has raised concerns over assessment of group work that may result in students unfairly benefitting from the work of others.

In response, the university has modified its Assessment & Feedback Policy to ensure that students’ performance can be differentiated in marks given for group work.    

As a result, it is no longer acceptable for a same mark to be given to the whole group as standard.  In some instances, the validated assessment strategy may include a distinct component (for example reflective essay) that students complete individually.  This would meet the requirements.   

However, a marking scheme will need to be adapted to ensure that it can distinguish between students’ performance if the validated assessment for group work is a single assessment component.

Removing the requirement to pass the PGT Research Methods module before the PGT Dissertation can be submitted

Post graduate students will no longer need to pass a ‘Research Methods’ module before being able to have a dissertation assessment submission considered at a Board of Examiners.

Removing the requirement for all assessment components on a module to be attempted before credit is released

Where a module has achieved an aggregate pass mark (40% for undergraduate modules and 50% for postgraduate modules) non submission of any individual component(s) will no longer lead to module failure.

Introduction of a maximum duration of study: programme length plus 2 calendar years

To align LJMU regulations with sector practice associated with timely completion of programmes, students will be expected to finish their studies within an appropriate timescale.  For example, a student will be required to complete within a period of up to five years for a standard three-year undergraduate Bachelor's programme. 

Training and further information

Staff can sign up for training on the Academic Framework and Assessment and Feedback Policy; Key Updates 25-26. Online training dates are available in July, August and September.

The Assessment and Feedback webpages have also been updated to provide additional guidance.