How to Submit an Appeal

Participants who do not agree with an administrative decision (exception, accommodation, eligibility, or disciplinary action) rendered by HBS Online can submit a formal appeal. Requests to retake a quiz or exam due to dissatisfaction with scores will not be considered. We expect participants who are concerned about their ability to effectively complete quizzes or exams to reach out before attempting to complete them.

Please note: If you need to request an exception to our policies, you must first submit an Exception Request Form and await a response from our support team prior to submitting an appeal. You can learn more about the Exception Process on our Requesting an Exception to our Policies page.

We expect appeals to be submitted in a timely fashion, ideally within 5 business days from the communication of the initial decision. Appeals submitted after this time frame without a valid reason may not be reviewed.

Appeal Request Form

Steps for Submitting Your Appeal

Step One
Download and fill out the Appeal Request Form. You must submit your appeal within five business days from communication of the initial decision to submit an appeal.

Step Two
Log in to your HBS Online Support Portal. Under "My Cases," re-open the case where you received your exception decision. Submit your completed appeals request form to the case within five business days from communication of the initial decision. NOTE: Your case can only be re-opened within one week of receiving the initial decision.

Step Three
Once we have received your appeal request form, our Appeals Committee will review your request. You can expect to receive a decision within 10 business days. If you can do so, we encourage you to keep working on your course while we review your request.

Appeal decisions are considered final and we will only accept one appeal per exception or accommodation decision. You cannot submit a second appeal for your request. Please ensure that you provide all relevant information so that we may best assess your appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Appeals

How can I request an accommodation?
I don't think I can participate in this cohort. What are my options?
How long will it take to review my appeal?
Can I appeal a decision more than once?
Can I speak with someone at HBS Online about my request?
Who reviews my appeal?

Still can't find what you're looking for? Please refer to the HBS Online FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions), or visit the HBS Online Support Portal for any questions, comments, or concerns about your Harvard Business School Online experience.

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