Chapter 7: Thesis and examination matters

7.10 Examiner's recommendations on the thesis

There are five possible recommendations an examiner can make on a doctoral or MPhil thesis:

1. The candidate be awarded the degree without further examination
2. The candidate be awarded the degree without further examination subject to insertion in the thesis of amendments noted in the enclosed list
   - to my satisfaction (I wish to review the amendments made), or
   - to that of the head of the academic unit
3. The candidate be awarded the degree subject to satisfying me regarding the attached questions (I wish to review the candidate’s response)
4. The candidate not yet be awarded the degree but be permitted to resubmit the thesis in a revised form.
5. The candidate not be awarded the degree.

The examiner is also expected, whether the report is favourable or unfavourable, to provide some detailed comments on the strengths and/or weaknesses of the thesis.

7.10.1 Grades for MPhil theses

Examiners of MPhil theses are also asked to provide a numerical mark as part of the assessment.

The following grading system is used:

• H1 : 80+%
• H2A : 70-79%
• H2B : 60-69%

Where a mark in the range above is recommended, the examiner must also recommend that the thesis be passed or that it be passed subject to the completion of amendments.

Fail : less than 60%

No mark is to be given where the thesis is recommended for revision and resubmission, or for outright fail with no option for revision and resubmission.