What You Can Expect When Contacting QMSU Advice

Reaching out for help—especially when you’re dealing with appeals, complaints or misconduct issues—can feel overwhelming. The Queen Mary Students’ Union (QMSU) Advice Service is here to make that process clearer, calmer, and more supportive. Here’s exactly what you can expect when you contact us.  

 Starting Your Journey: Visiting the QMSU Website  

Your first step is simple:  

• Go to the QMSU website  

• Click Advice & Support  

• Select the Academic Advice section  

• Fill out our online advice form  

The form lets you tell us what you’re struggling with—whether it’s an Appeal, Academic Misconduct, a Complaint, or something else. The more detail you give, the easier it is for us to support you.  

What Happens After You Submit the Form  

Once your form is submitted, it’s reviewed by our Advice Manager. We then will:  

• Triage your case. This means identifying exactly what support you need and assigning your case to one of our two advisors  

• Decide whether to offer written advice or invite you to a follow up appointment  

Written advice is perfect for straightforward situations where we can answer your questions immediately. If your situation is more complex—or you would simply prefer to talk it through—your adviser will book a meeting with you.  

What Support can I get?  

1. Walkthrough of University and OIA Processes:  

Our advisers can help with a wide range of academic processes, especially:  

• Appeals  

• Academic Misconduct cases  

• Complaints  

You can expect from them:  

• Clear explanations of relevant QMUL policies and procedures  

• Help understanding letters or decisions you’ve received  

• Guidance on how to structure your case, what evidence to gather, and common pitfalls

• Space to talk through your situation with someone independent, impartial and non-judgemental  

2. Draft Reviewing and Practical Support  

Many students aren’t quite sure what to write—or worry about “getting it wrong”. QMSU advisers can:  

• Review drafts of appeals, complaint statements, or misconduct responses  

• Suggest improvements to clarity, structure, tone, or evidence  

• Help you understand the likely outcomes or next steps  

This support can make the process feel much more manageable, especially if English isn’t your first language or you’re dealing with a stressful situation.  

 3. Representation at University Meetings  

For cases involving hearings or formal interviews, such as Academic Misconduct interviews or panel hearings, your adviser can attend with you as your representative.  

They can:  

• Help you prepare  

• Make sure the process is followed fairly  

• Step in if anything is unclear  

• Provide support during what can feel like a daunting meeting  

What QMSU Advice Cannot Do  

To keep the service fair, impartial and trusted by the University, there are a few things we can’t do:  

• Advise you whether or not to appeal - this has to be your decision;  

• Give legal advice  

• Access your Student Record  

• Write your appeal or statement for you; or submit your appeal on your behalf

• Make the University give you the outcome you want

• Tell you what the outcome will be or the exact date you’ll receive a decision

• Make the appeal process go any quicker. It’s important to remember that a large number of students will be appealing at the same time, all wanting a decision urgently

But we can guide, support, explain, review, and stand with you throughout the process.  

Our Promise to QMUL Students  

The QMSU Advice Service is:  

• Free 

• Confidential  

• Independent from the University  

• Impartial 

• Non-judgemental  

Whether your situation is simple or complicated, we’re here to help you understand your options and feel confident in your next steps.  

If you would like help from our team head to QMSU Advice Service page. Advice & Support