The University of Bath is currently investigating a series of examination errors that have caused significant distress among students. Reports suggest that a computer science exam contained up to 11 errors in its questions, while a physics exam scheduled for three hours was only booked for two.
The university has acknowledged administrative oversights but reassures that comprehensive procedures exist to address any structural issues that may have adversely affected students. “Supporting our students and upholding the integrity of our assessments remain our highest priorities. All assessment results are reviewed and finalised by Boards of Examiners,” the university stated.
On May 16, final-year computer science student James* sat an exam that reportedly contained numerous mistakes. In response, James and 33 classmates signed a formal complaint highlighting their dissatisfaction. “It’s just a mess,” James said. “Domestic students pay £9,250 annually for this degree; from a business perspective, people are understandably unhappy.”
READ MORE: Farming Veterans and Future Stars Honoured at 160th Bath and West Show Launch
READ MORE: World’s Oldest Pasty Makers to Launch New Bakery in Weston-super-Mare
The contested exam contributes 3.4% toward James’ final degree grade and accounts for half of the module’s assessment. While James has secured postgraduate employment unaffected by his marks, others face uncertainty. “If this exam affects whether you graduate with a first or a 2:1, it could impact your future considerably,” he said.
In his letter, James expressed appreciation for the academic staff’s efforts but raised serious concerns over quality control and fairness: “The frequency and nature of issues in this exam cast doubt on assessment standards. My complaint seeks to ensure the University of Bath maintains its reputation and treats students equitably.”
James emphasized that the grievance represents a collective concern endorsed by many peers, despite being submitted individually.
A university spokesperson confirmed: “We are aware of the complaint and are reviewing it according to our established procedures.” The potential outcomes are yet to be determined.
This is not the first exam-related incident at Bath. Last semester, a computer science module awarded only 4 out of 60 marks for a question later found to be erroneous. Additionally, economics students were required to retake an exam after a previous paper mistakenly included answers.
Compounding the computer science issues, a physics exam scheduled for three hours on May 27 was limited to two due to room booking conflicts. First-year physics student Hazel* described the confusion: “We expected three hours based on the exam paper and information pages. However, upon arrival, we learned from staff that the room had only been booked for two hours. The mistake was only discovered as papers were being distributed.”
The university explained that the error was identified moments before the exam began, but clashes in room bookings prevented extending the exam duration. The Physics Department issued an apology. Professor Ventsislav Valev, Head of Department, stated: “We are deeply sorry for the confusion and concern. Our priority is to ensure no student is disadvantaged. We are reviewing our procedures to prevent such incidents in the future.”
University representatives reiterated their commitment: “With processes in place to address any unfair impact, supporting students and maintaining assessment integrity remain our foremost concerns.”
(*Names have been changed.)