Quick answer: Macquarie University decides whether evidence is accepted and what outcome is granted. A medical certificate does not guarantee approval.
This guide covers coursework assessment extensions, special consideration and deferred assessments. It does not replace the institution’s current policy or application instructions.
A standard sick certificate may be insufficient where an institution form, real-time consultation, functional-impact assessment or supporting proof is required.
What evidence may be accepted?
For short-term illness, Macquarie may consider a medical certificate, Professional Authority Form or eligible Statement of Fact. Longer circumstances generally require independent evidence.
Certificate and form requirements
Required form
The Professional Authority Form is optional. A detailed medical certificate can be considered when it contains consultation dates, event dates, impact and appropriate practitioner verification.
Consultation modality
Current sources do not state a face-to-face or telehealth restriction. The practitioner form requires consultation dates but does not establish that an asynchronous service is acceptable.
Previous dates
No explicit prohibition on retrospective evidence was identified. Evidence should record consultation dates, event duration and the affected period.
Duration
A Statement of Fact may support some events lasting five days or fewer. Longer events need independent supporting documentation.
Impact wording
Evidence should identify the circumstances, severity and effect on the student's capacity for effective study in relation to the assessment. The PAF allows the practitioner to indicate limited ability or unfitness.
Submission deadline
Apply before or within five working days after the assessment, examination or test. The student normally must not already have undertaken or submitted the assessment.
What this guide does not cover
A Statement of Fact is an alternative only in defined circumstances. Longer or ongoing events need independent documentation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Macquarie University accept a medical certificate?
Macquarie University makes the decision. Evidence must meet the current policy and may need specific practitioner, form, consultation, date and academic-impact details.
Does Macquarie University accept telehealth medical certificates?
Current sources do not state a face-to-face or telehealth restriction. The practitioner form requires consultation dates but does not establish that an asynchronous service is acceptable.
Can evidence for Macquarie University be backdated?
No explicit prohibition on retrospective evidence was identified. Evidence should record consultation dates, event duration and the affected period.
Official sources and review information
- Macquarie University Special Consideration Procedure
- Macquarie application guidance
- Macquarie Supporting Evidence Schedule
- Macquarie Professional Authority Form
Policy effective or updated: Procedure effective 4 December 2023; amendment recorded 13 June 2025
Last checked: 31 July 2026
Updoc is not affiliated with or endorsed by this institution. Policy interpretation and acceptance remain with the institution.
