What are Compelling and Compassionate Circumstances?

Compassionate or compelling circumstances are serious, unexpected events beyond your control that have a significant impact on your ability to study. These situations may justify support such as Special Consideration, Leave of Absence, Reasonable Adjustment, or Remittal of Fees. Examples include illness, injury, bereavement, or major personal crises. Providing clear evidence from a qualified professional helps Ikon assess your situation fairly and in accordance with the Assessment, Support for Students, and Student Services Policies.

Definition

Compassionate or compelling circumstances are events that:

• Are beyond your control, and
• Have a serious impact on your ability to start, continue, or complete your studies.

These circumstances may temporarily or significantly affect your attendance, performance, or ability to participate in study activities.

Examples of compassionate or compelling circumstances

The following are accepted examples (not a complete list):

• Serious illness or injury, supported by a medical certificate stating you were unfit to study.
• Bereavement of a close family member or loved one.
• Major personal or family crisis resulting in distress or disruption.
• Significant relationship breakdown or domestic issues.
• Victim of crime or trauma, verified by a police report or professional statement.
• Natural disaster, emergency, or major event affecting you or your family.
• Unexpected changes to employment that impact study (for vocational programs, with employer verification).
• Visa or government-related travel issues preventing attendance or participation.
• Severe disruption to living arrangements or relocation.
• Caring responsibilities for an immediate family member experiencing hardship.

What is not considered compassionate or compelling

The following situations usually do not qualify:

• Minor illness or short-term cold/flu.
• Workload stress or poor time management.
• Misreading a due date or timetable.
• Travel, holidays, or other personal commitments.
• Incomplete or unverifiable applications.

Evidence required

To support your application, provide documentation from a qualified and independent professional that confirms your circumstances, relevant dates, and how your study was affected.

Acceptable evidence includes:

• Medical certificates or letters
• Counsellor or psychologist reports
• Legal or police documentation
• Employer or authority letters

Refer to:

• Acceptable Types of Supporting Evidence
• Acceptable Medical Certificate or Letter of Support

If your documents are not in English, they must be translated by a NAATI-accredited translator.

When these circumstances apply

Compassionate or compelling circumstances may support applications for:

• Special Consideration
• Leave of Absence
• Reasonable Adjustment
• Remittal of Fees

Applications are assessed in line with Ikon’s Assessment Policy and Support for Students Policy to ensure fair and consistent outcomes.

Related articles and policies

• Assessment Policy
• Fees and Refunds Policy
• Reasonable Adjustment Policy
• Support for Students Policy
• Student Services Policy
• Acceptable Types of Supporting Evidence
• Acceptable Medical Certificate or Letter of Support

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