How to Ask Your Professor for a Better Grade

Every time a semester ends, professors receive numerous emails from students who are looking for a grade change. Most often, such last minute emails bring nothing but frustration. Many professors even set auto-responses and don’t read these emails until the semester ends. If you want to ask your professor for a better grade, prepare and plan your request carefully. To get the best results, check out these tips from our highly motivated writing professionals at writers-house.com.

1. Do your best not to face this situation

The majority of requests are sent by students with borderline grades. They want to improve their GPA by just a couple of points. Keep in mind that it is not an acceptable reason to ask your professor to change your grade.

For instance, if your grade is 89,55%, don’t ask for 90%. Instead, work hard before the semester ends and ask about extra credit possibilities.

2. Contact your professor before they submit their grades to the university

Any instructor is more likely to change a grade before they submit it to the university. If you think that you should have more participation credit, talk about it before grades are due. If you make your request after submission, it will be more difficult for your professor to do what you want. There are many universities where grade changes are impossible without a detailed written explanation from the instructor. Don’t forget that instructors submit grades to the university before students can see them, so contact your professor as soon as you can.

3. Decide whether you actually have a case

Read the syllabus and make sure that your request meets the instructor’s expectations. You need solid reasons for a grade change request. For example, you may ask for a better grade if:

• There is a miscalculation;
• The instructor has failed to count your points;
• There is a problem with the online learning management system;
• You think that your role in the group project has been downplayed;
• You are sure that you should receive more participation points.

4. Collect evidence

Support your claims with evidence. Collect documents on times you have participated, your old papers, etc.

5. Discuss your case professionally

Don’t be angry or too pushy. Formulate your request in a professional way. Provide the evidence that supports your claims, and offer to discuss your case in more detail if the instructor finds it helpful.

6. Appeal to the department if there’s no other way

If you’re sure that you have a serious case, and your professor refuses to change your grade, you can appeal to the department. Call the department offices and learn more about your university’s policy on grade appeals.

When you complain about your professor’s decision, other professors may be very critical about it, especially if you’re in a small department. However, you will have more chances to keep their respect if you state your request professionally and confidently.