Is your lecturer making demands you think are unfair?

Otago policy states that if you have two similar pieces of assessment for a paper (eg two lab reports or essays), the second one shouldn't be due until at least a week after you get the first one back, marked with feedback. This is so that you have time to learn from any mistakes you make the first time around.

You're also supposed to get any assignment back, marked with feedback, within 3 teaching weeks of handing it in at the latest.

If you're concerned about they way your course is taught or assessed, talk to an OUSA Advocate - they can help you sort it out.

Has your flat environment turned from harmonious to toxic?

OUSA Student Support has a Flat Mediation service for students. Themediator facilitates a meeting between all the flatmates to try and finda solution that everyone can agree on.

When you move into a flat, do a flat inspection WITH your landlord and make sure all existing damage is noted down, or you could be liable when you move out.

You are expected to leave your flat in the condition you found it and "reasonably clean and tidy". Your bond can't be kept for reasonable wear and tear or things that are the landlord's responsibility.

Structural and maintenance issues (like a damp patch on a wall) are the landlord's responsibility to fix, unless they have been caused by negligence by the tenant.

If you disagree with your landlord's decision, an OUSA advocate can help you sort it out.

Are you scraping the bottom of the barrel with your finances? Wondering how you'll get buy until your next Studylink payment?

OUSA can help! We have trained, student-friendly budget advisors available. We can also tell you about financial help if you get desperate and can't afford essential expenses like food. We even have an on-site foodbank to help get you through.