International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010

STUDENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

EVALUATION RULES
(AMENDMENT 2010)
PART I
DESCRIPTION

The Senate shall make the following Rules :

1.

IDENTIFICATION
These Rules shall be known as the STUDENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
RULES of the INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA and shall be read
together with Schedule I (Administrative Order on the Conduct of Examinations) and Schedule II
(Standing Order against Cheating in Examinations).

2.

APPLICATION
These Rules shall apply to all undergraduate students pursuing specific degree programmes in the
University and, wherever applicable, to those in the Centre for Foundation Studies.

3.

DATE OF IMPLEMENTATION
These Rules shall come into force upon approval by the Senate.

4.

INTERPRETATION :
In these Rules, unless otherwise stated:
ASSESSMENT refers to a process by which the University is able to certify that a student has
achieved the learning outcomes and academic standards for the programme. Assessment may take
a range of forms, both invigilated and non-invigilated; including quizzes, seminars, assignments,
projects, practicum, moots, class participation, mid-semester examinations and end-of semester
examinations;
CONDUCT OF EXAMINATIONS means the planning and arrangement for an examination
and also includes the execution, supervision and authentication of the examination and its results;
CONTACT HOUR refers to the actual instructional interactions between the academic staff
and the student measured in terms of hours;
COURSE means a defined area of study or a unit of a curriculum comprising several
interrelated topics which is normally offered in a semester with a specific credit hour load and
given a code;
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 1 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
COURSEWORK means quizzes, tests, research papers, projects and assignments of similar
nature excluding end-of-semester examinations that contribute to the final grade;
COURSE INSTRUCTOR refers to the person assigned by the University to teach a course or
section thereof;
CREDIT HOUR means the academic load of a course measured in units per semester.
CUMULATIVE GRADE POINT AVERAGE OR CGPA means the sum of the products of
the credit hours and the quality point equivalent of the grade for all courses taken divided by the
sum of all their credit hours in all semesters up to a point in time. Computation of CGPA includes
only courses within the programme requirements as approved by the Senate;
CURRICULUM includes the totality of all courses and other academic and non-academic
requirements for the award of a degree in the University arranged in progressive series on a
semestral basis;
DEAN refers to the administrative Head of a Kulliyyah;
END-OF-SEMESTER EXAMINATION means an examination given at the end of the
course;
ENROLLED STUDENT means a person who, having been admitted to any degree
programme, has paid the prescribed registration fees as required by the University;
EXAMINATION refers to any test, mid-semester and end-of-semester examinations given by
a course instructor in satisfaction of the requirements of the course;
EXAMINATION VENUE refers to areas gazetted for examinations.
EXTERNAL ASSESSOR refers to a person, not being a member of the academic staff of the
Kulliyyah, who may be appointed by the Senate upon the recommendation of a Kulliyyah for the
purpose of assessing the academic standard of the academic programme conducted by the
Kulliyyah.
EXTERNAL EXAMINER refers to a person, not being a member of the academic staff of the
Kulliyyah, who may be appointed by the Senate upon the recommendation of the respective
Kulliyyah to assist in the evaluation and examination of students in a programme;
GRADE means the final grade of a course based on the total scores awarded;
GRADE-POINT-AVERAGE OR GPA is the average grade of a student for a given semester
computed by taking the sum of the products of the credit hour and quality point equivalent of the
grade for all courses divided by the total credit hours registered in that semester.
GRADUATION SEMESTER means the last semester before a student is allowed to graduate;

HE/HIS includes she/her;

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 2 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
HEAD includes the chairperson of an academic department within a Kulliyyah of the
University;
KULLIYYAH includes Faculty, Centre, Institute, or similar agencies which may offer
programme of studies / courses and may be subdivided into Departments, Divisions or Sub-Units;
KULLIYYAH BOARD means Kulliyyah Academic Board whose membership comprises the
Kulliyyah academic staff who are on full time service with the University including the Dean, the
Deputy Deans, Heads of Departments, Coordinators of Units and a maximum of five other
academic staff from each Department to be determined by the respective Departments to make
decisions on academic matters within the Kulliyyah, in line with the policy as determined by the
Senate. The Board may, if necessary, invite other staff to the meeting;
MINISTRY refers to the Ministry in-charge of higher education, Malaysia;
NON-REGULAR STUDENT means a student who is given credit transfer ;
PROGRAMME OF STUDIES means a prescribed curriculum leading to a degree;
QUALITY POINT EQUIVALENT is a numerical equivalent assigned to each course grade
for the purpose of calculating grade point average;
REPEAT means to register for the same course when it is next offered;
RESIT means the supplementary end-of-semester examination taken by graduating students;
SEMESTER means a duration specified by the Senate allocated for lectures, examinations and
other instructional activities;
SENATE refers to the Senate of the University;
STRUCTURED PROGRAMME refers to a programme in which courses are offered once in
an academic year;
TERMINATED STUDENT refers to a student who is dismissed from the University due to
non-registration of courses;
UNIVERSITY refers to the INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA.

PART II
COURSE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

5.

COURSE OFFERING
Any course may be offered in any semester in any number of sections with any number of
instructors as considered appropriate by the Kulliyyah.
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 3 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
6.

7.

8.

CLASS SIZE
6.1

The Senate shall determine the minimum and maximum class sizes.

6.2

The decision of the Senate is included in the Registration Regulations. The Deputy
Rector in-charge of academic affairs is authorised by the Senate to grant exception to the
Dean of the Kulliyyah to decide on the class size under certain circumstances.

COURSE OUTLINE
7.1

Each course outline shall contain a general course description, course objectives, learning
outcomes, assessment matrix, instructional strategies, student learning time, major and
minor topics, breakdown of schedules, references and / or any other requirements as
specified by the ministry.

7.2

Multiple section courses shall have the same course outline.

7.3

All course outlines shall be approved by the Senate.

7.4

Each course outline shall be continuously updated. Any changes exceeding thirty percent
(30%) of the content of the latest endorsed course outline requires endorsement by the
Senate.

MONITORING OF CLASS ATTENDANCE

The attendance of every student in every course shall be monitored by the kulliyyah.

9.

INDEPENDENT STUDY
9.1

A graduating student may undertake Independent Study with the approval of the Dean of
the respective Kulliyyah.

9 .2

Except under special circumstances, with the approval of the kulliyyah, a student shall
not be allowed to undertake Independent Study if the course is already offered in that
particular semester.

9.3

Independent Study may take the following forms:

a. Regular consultations
b. Distance-learning (e-mail correspondence) or any other ICT mode for nonstudio/laboratory courses if the total number of credit hours required for graduation is
less than twelve (12) and all the course instructors agree with the arrangement.

9.4

Grading of courses taken in Independent Study mode may take the following forms:
a) For non-repeat courses, the evaluation may be based on coursework. However, the
percentage for the end-of-semester examination of courses taken through distancelearning must carry a weight of at least seventy percent (70%).
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 4 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
b) For repeat courses, the evaluation may be based on coursework or an end-of-semester
examination which carries a weight of one hundred percent (100%), or the
combination of both subject to the approval of the Dean of the Kulliyyah.
c) The grade for the course will be computed in the CGPA.
10.

11.

12.

13.

GRADING
10.1

The grade obtained for each course shall be based on the overall assessment performance
comprising end-of-semester examination and coursework.

10.2

The end-of-semester examination shall carry a weightage ranging from forty (40) to sixty
(60) percent.

10.3

The end-of-semester examination for certain courses may be waived or carry a reduced/
increased percentage if the nature of the courses so requires as stated in the course outline
approved by the Senate.

PASS/FAIL GRADE
11.1

Pass/ fail grade may be given for practical training and resit examination;

11.2

A student who obtains a PASS grade shall earn the credit hours of the course. A
student who obtains a FAIL grade is required to repeat the course.

COMMON END-OF-SEMESTER EXAMINATIONS FOR MULTIPLE SECTION

COURSES
12.1

All courses with multiple sections shall have common end-of-semester examinations;

12.2

In exceptional circumstances, the Dean of the Kulliyyah may seek the approval of the
Deputy Rector in charge of academic affairs to conduct the end-of-semester examinations
prior to the specified period.

GRADING SYSTEM

The following grading system shall be strictly observed:

Percentage Score

Letter Grade

Quality Point
Equivalent

Remark

Hours Credited

Hours
Earned

85-100

4.00

Excellent

Yes

Yes

75-84

A-

3.67

Extremely
Good

Yes

Yes

70-74

B+

3.33

Very Good

Yes

Yes

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 5 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
65-69

3.00

Good

Yes

Yes

60-64

B-

2.67

Fairly Good

Yes

Yes

55-59

C+

2.33

Satisfactory

Yes

Yes

50-54

2.00

Quite
Satisfactory

Yes

Yes

45-49

1.67

Poor

Yes

No

40-44

D-

1.33

Very Poor

Yes

No

35-39

1.00

Extremely Poor

Yes

No

0-34

0.00

Failed

Yes

No

The Senate may review the grading system from time to time.
14.

MINIMUM PASSING GRADE

14.1

The lowest grade for a clear pass shall be C with a quality point equivalent of 2.0.

14.2

A student who fails to obtain a minimum of C grade is required to repeat the course.

Other transcript notations:

Grade
PA/FA
PR
FR
I
IP
W
AU
Y
EX

15.

Interpretation
Practical Training / P/F Option Course
Pass on Resit
Fail on Resit
Incomplete
Course in Progress
Withdrawal with Special Permission
Audit
Barred from End-of-Semester Examination
Exempted

Points
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0

Hours Credited
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
Yes
Yes

Hours Earned
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes

RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE COMPUTATION OF GRADES

The course instructor handling the course for the semester shall be responsible for computing the
grades of the students registered for the course.
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 6 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
16.

SUBMISSION OF RESULTS
The course instructor shall be responsible for entering the course marks and final grades of all
registered students into the online system within the time specified.

17.

VERIFICATION OF RESULTS
The examiner shall verify and submit the grading sheets to the Dean of the Kulliyyah through the
Head of Department.

18.

CONFIRMATION OF GRADES
All final grades shall be submitted for confirmation by the Kulliyyah Board of Examiners,
chaired by the Dean, acting under the authority of the Senate.

19.

UNRESOLVED CASES
Any cases concerning grades unresolved by the Kulliyyah Board of Examiners shall be referred
to the Senate.

20.

CHANGE OF GRADES
A change of grade that has been duly confirmed by the Kulliyyah Board of Examiners shall have
to be endorsed by the Senate.

21.

INCOMPLETE GRADES
21.1

Subject to the approval of the Dean of the Kulliyyah, the course instructor may assign a
temporary grade of I (Incomplete).

21.2

This grade is given to a student who otherwise is passing a course but is unable to
complete one or more course requirements due to exceptional or unavoidable
circumstances;

21.3

No I grade shall be given to any student in the following cases:

a)
b)
c)
d)
e)

Absence from an end-of-semester examination;

Barred from taking the end-of-semester examination;
Failure in the audited course;
To improve grade;
Lacking potential to be on good standing when the grade is finalized.

21.4

The student shall fulfill all remaining requirements within the first eight (8) weeks of the
following semester. Failure to do so will result in the change of grade from I to a final
grade based on coursework and/ or end-of-semester examination marks.

21.5

No student shall have more than two Is in any semester unless otherwise approved by
the Deputy Rector in charge of academic affairs on the recommendation of the Dean of
the Kulliyyah.
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 7 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
22.

23.

AUDITING
22.1

A student who intends to audit a course is required to obtain the permission of the course
instructor.

22.2

No credit is allocated for an audited course.

22.3

An audited course shall be recorded on the students transcript with the AU grade.
However, this does not affect the students grade point average. A student auditing a
course is not required to take the end-of-semester examination but must satisfy the
course requirement; otherwise, W status shall be recorded.

22.4

No course shall be changed from credit to audit status or vice versa after the deadline set
by the Senate. However, in exceptional circumstances, the Deputy Rector in charge of
academic affairs may approve a request for change.

IP GRADE OR WORK IN PROGRESS

23.1

An IP grade refers to work in progress.

23.2

An IP grade may be given for courses requiring research work which may exceed one
semester. An IP grade shall not affect a students GPA or CGPA.

23.3

The maximum period for the completion of research work shall be one (1) academic year.
However, extension may be allowed with the approval of the Dean.

23.4

Should a student fail to complete the research work within the period specified, the IP
grade shall be changed to a final grade based on the work already done.

23.5

A student on IP status is required to register every regular semester.

PART III
EXAMINATION REGULATIONS

24.

THE KULLIYYAH BOARD OF EXAMINERS

There shall be a Board of Examiners for each Kulliyyah as delegated by the Senate with the
following duties and functions:
24.1

Appoint members of the Board of Examiners for each Department or each specific area
of studies.

24.2

Provide overall supervision in the conduct of all examinations in the Kulliyyah.

24.3

Review and approve/ confirm final grades submitted by individual course instructors to
the Dean of the Kulliyyah, under the authority of the Senate.
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 8 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
24.4
25.

Determine the Deans List.

MEMBERS OF KULLIYYAH BOARD OF EXAMINERS

Members of the Kulliyyah Board of Examiners shall comprise the following :
a)
b)
c)
d)

26.

The Dean
The Deputy Deans
Department Heads and/or Examination Coordinators
Any other examiner invited by the Dean

CHAIRMAN OF THE KULLIYYAH BOARD OF EXAMINERS

The respective Dean of the Kulliyyah shall be the Chairman of the Kulliyyah Board of
Examiners.

27.

SECRETARY TO THE KULLIYYAH BOARD OF EXAMINERS

The Kulliyyah shall provide the Secretary and the Secretariat for each Kulliyyah Board of
Examiners.

28.

RESPONSIBILITY
The Kulliyyah Board of Examiners shall be responsible to the Senate for the conduct of all
examinations, the correctness and validation of course results and grades.

29.

EXAMINATION COMMITTEES
An Examination committee shall be established at each Kulliyyah and/or departmental level.
Each committee shall be chaired by the Dean / relevant Head of Department. The committee shall
consist of at least three (3) examiners with the following functions :
a)
b)
c)

30.

to vet end-of-semester examination questions;

to review and approve the final grades submitted by examiners;
to submit the final grades to the Kulliyyah Board of Examiners.

APPOINTMENT OF INVIGILATORS
An invigilator shall be appointed by the Rector upon the recommendation of the respective Dean
of the Kulliyyah.

31.

NOTIFICATION OF EXAMINATION PROCEDURES

An examiner / invigilator shall be notified by the Admissions & Records Division on procedures
and rules pertaining to the conduct of the Examinations.

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 9 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
32.

33.

OFFICIAL RESULTS
32.1

The results for any paper in any examination shall not be regarded as official until
confirmed by the Kulliyyah Board of Examiners and subsequently endorsed by the
Senate.

32.2

A student shall be notified of the examination results by the Admissions and Records
Division. Only grades and not marks shall be released. However, based on the
recommendation of the relevant University authority, results of a student with certain
disciplinary offences shall be withheld unless the Senate decides otherwise.

ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER
The conduct of any examination shall follow the rules and procedures provided for in the
ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER ON THE CONDUCT OF EXAMINATIONS.

34.

35.

ADMINISTRATION OF EXAMINATIONS
34.1

Examinations may be written, oral, practical, or a combination of any of these, as

determined in the course outline approved by the Senate.

34.2

The time and location of end-of-semester examinations are to be scheduled by the

Admissions and Records Division and may be changed by the Dean of the Kulliyyah
whenever necessary provided there are no clashes.

34.3

An instructor who is considering a take-home-end-of-semester examination shall inform

the students at the beginning of the semester. Such an examination shall be administered
during the revision week. The submission of examination answers to the examiner shall
not exceed a limit of forty eight (48) hours unless it involves a weekend or a public
holiday. If the student fails to submit examination answers within the specified
timeframe, he will be assigned an F grade.

34.4

An end-of-semester examination may be conducted on the last day of class or during the
revision period with the approval of the Dean of the Kulliyyah and subject to the consent
of all students.

ABSENCE DURING END-OF-SEMESTER EXAMINATIONS

A student who is absent without valid reasons shall be graded only on the coursework.

36.

REPEAT OF COURSES
36.1

A student who fails in a course, subject to the specific requirements of the Kulliyyah and
the curriculum of his programme of studies, may do either of the following:
a) Repeat the course if it is a required course; or

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 10 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
b) Repeat or replace the course with another course if it is not a required course as
determined by the Kulliyyah.
36.2

Notwithstanding any other provisions of these Regulations, a graduating student who

obtains the minimum cumulative grade point average for graduation but fails in any
course in the final regular semester (or the final year for structured programmes) may be
allowed to resit for that course subject to the following conditions:a) the maximum number of courses is equivalent to eighteen (18) credit hours subject to
the approval of the Dean of the Kulliyyah and beyond which the approval of the
Deputy Rector in charge of academic affairs is required.

37.

38.

b)

the student was not barred or had not withdrawn from the course he intends to resit.

c)

the examination is based on Pass/ Fail rating. It carries one hundred percent (100%)
of the course grade. The grade does not affect the CGPA.

36.3

A student with a passing grade, upon approval of the Dean of the Kulliyyah, may repeat a
kulliyyah course once, for up to a maximum of two courses.

36.4

The credit and grade from each repeated course shall be computed in the CGPA as an
additional credit and grade.

IRREGULARITIES
37.1

Where the Dean of the Kulliyyah has reason or reasons to believe that irregularities have
been committed in the preparation of any examination, the Dean, at his discretion, may
defer the conduct of such an examination and conduct an investigation, the results of
which shall be forwarded to the Rector for appropriate action.

37.2

In the event that irregularities are found after the conduct of the examination, the results
of the original examination shall become null and void.

37.3

The Dean, in consultation with the Rector or Deputy Rector in charge of academic
affairs, shall arrange for a substitute examination.

BREACH OF EXAMINATION REGULATIONS

Where the Dean of the Kulliyyah is satisfied that any student has committed a breach of any
provision of these Regulations, the student shall be considered to have committed an offence and
the Dean shall:
38.1

report to the Student Disciplinary Authority to take action against the student according
to Students' Disciplinary Rules 2004 (amendment 2006);

38.2

if the student is found guilty, he shall receive an F grade for the course involved;

38.3

report the matter to the Senate for such action.

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 11 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
39.

ELIGIBILITY TO SIT FOR EXAMINATIONS

No student shall be allowed to sit for any end-of-semester examination unless:

a)

he is officially registered in such a course; and

b)

he has fulfilled any other requirements prescribed by the respective kulliyyah

including attendance.
40.

BARRING FROM EXAMINATIONS

The Rector may, upon recommendation of the kulliyyah, bar a student from taking the
examination in the following cases :

41.

40.1

he has failed to meet any of the requirements for the eligibility for entry to an
examination. In such a case, the student may appeal against the decision to bar.

40.2

he has committed a breach of any of the University Regulations.

CONSEQUENCE OF BARRING FROM EXAMINATIONS

Unless otherwise reconsidered, any student barred from any examination shall automatically
receive a grade Y which is equivalent to an F for that course, irrespective of coursework
performance.

42.

SPECIAL EXAMINATION
42.1

A student is not allowed to be absent from an end-of-semester examination except with

valid reasons during the examination period. If such reasons are not verified by the
relevant authorities within seven (7) days of the scheduled examination, the Kulliyyah
shall record an examination grade which comprises the coursework marks.

42.2

A student may be allowed to be absent from the end-of-semester examination on personal

reasons acceptable to the University authorities which are not due to negligence or
disciplinary grounds. A special examination shall be arranged with a prescribe fee for
each course.

42.3

The Kulliyyah Board of Examiners shall authorise a special examination up to the third
week of the following semester unless leave of absence is granted.

PART IV
END-OF-SEMESTER EXAMINATION PROCEDURE

43.

EXAMINATION SUPERVISOR
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 12 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
The Dean of the Kulliyyah will be the Supervisor of Examinations who shall be responsible for
the organising and conduct of all examinations, maintaining proper records and making
appropriate announcements in connection with the examination.
44.

DUTIES OF SUPERVISOR
The Supervisor of Examinations shall be responsible for the security of all examination materials,
and shall determine which matters connected with the arrangement and conduct of the
examination shall be dealt with in the strictest confidence.

45.

EXAMINERS OF COURSES
A member of academic staff, or such other person who is assigned to the course(s), shall be the
examiner for the respective course(s).

46.

DUTIES OF EXAMINERS
An examiner shall ensure that:

47.

46.1

all questions conform to the prescribed course outlines;

46.2

all questions can be reasonably answered within the time prescribed;

46.3

the marking schemes are designed to give a fair assessment of the answers expected and
should be submitted together with the question paper to the Examination committee of
the Department for vetting to ensure standards are maintained and for reference if there
are cases of appeal for rechecking;

46.4

question papers are of reasonable length, normally covering a period between two to
three hours for a three credit-hour course;

46.5

all questions are properly vetted to maintain a reasonable academic standard required by
the programmes in accordance with the standards stipulated in the IIUM Assessment
Policy.

COORDINATION OF EXAMINATIONS
The Supervisor of Examinations shall coordinate with all the respective Heads of Departments for
the administration, preparation and conduct of all examination papers and marking schemes.

48.

SEALING OF QUESTION PAPERS

Question papers, as soon as they are verified by the examiners, shall be printed and sealed in the
Universitys envelopes, and the seal will be opened no earlier than an hour before the
commencement of the examination. Stationery and question papers will be laid out before the
candidates are called in to take their respective places in the examination venue.

49.

DUTIES OF CHIEF INVIGILATOR

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 13 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010

50.

49.1

Each examination shall be conducted by a Chief Invigilator who is normally assisted by

one or more invigilators. The Chief Invigilator shall be responsible for collecting the
question papers and attendance sheets from the Supervisor of Examinations of the
Kulliyyah at least 30 minutes before the examination is due to commence;

49.2

The Chief Invigilator and other invigilators shall be appointed by and be responsible to
the Rector;

49.3

Where a course is offered with only one section, the instructor with the recommendation
of the Dean of the Kulliyyah, may be appointed as the Chief Invigilator by the Rector;

49.4

In the case of the Centre for Foundation Studies, the Chief Invigilator and other
invigilators shall be appointed by and be responsible to the Dean of the Centre for
Foundation Studies;

IDENTIFICATION OF CANDIDATES
The Chief Invigilator/Invigilator shall ensure the correct identity of all candidates in accordance
with the attendance sheet and instruct the candidates to lay on their tables their appropriate
identity documents as specified by the University from time to time for inspection by the
invigilators.

51.

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES
The Chief Invigilator/Invigilator shall be responsible for giving the appropriate instructions to the
candidates before the commencement of the examination. Such instructions shall always include
all rules imposed upon candidates while taking the examination.

52.

RESTRICTIONS ON ENTERING AND LEAVING EXAMINATION VENUE

Excepting justifiable circumstances :

52.1

No candidate is allowed to present himself for examination later than thirty minutes after
the commencement of the examination.

52.2

No candidate is allowed to leave the examination venue until thirty (30) minutes have
elapsed after the commencement of the examination. Arrangements shall be made so that
in case any candidate is allowed to leave the venue for any purpose and return, he will
remain under sufficient supervision during his absence.
Permission for such
arrangements must be obtained from the Chief Invigilator.

52.3

No candidate is allowed to leave the examination venue within the last fifteen minutes of
the examination or within any specific period towards the end of the examination
specified by the Chief Invigilator. This is to avoid disturbing students to whom the last
few minutes are crucial.

52.4

In case the instructor himself is the Chief Invigilator he will be responsible for the above
(3) provisions.

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 14 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
53.

54.

TAKING ARTICLES INTO EXAMINATION VENUE

53.1

No articles except those authorised by the examiner may be taken by any candidate into
or out of an examination venue;

53.2

No candidate shall receive any article from any other person while he is in the
examination venue except that a candidate may, while he is in the examination venue,
receive from the invigilator or invigilators such articles as may be authorised by the
examiner;

53.3

No communication by whatever means is allowed between candidates during the

examination. If any candidate wishes to communicate with an invigilator, he must raise a
hand.

ERRORS IN PAPERS
A candidate may refer to the examiners if he thinks that there is a misprint or any other error in
the question paper for an examination and may request clarification on particular points that may
be ambiguous. For these purposes an examiner shall be present at least for the first half hour of
any paper and will, at any rate, ensure that he is readily available throughout the duration of that
paper.

55.

56.

57.

CANCELLATION OR POSTPONEMENT
55.1

If circumstances arise which, in the opinion of the Chief Invigilator at an examination,

upon consulting with the Deputy Rector in charge of academic affairs/ the respective
Dean of the Kulliyyah render necessary the cancellation or postponement of the
examination, he must stop the examination and, as soon as possible collect the scripts
already written and report the matter to the Deputy Rector in charge of academic affairs.
The Dean of the Kulliyyah may, in consultation with the Rector or Deputy Rector in
charge of academic affairs, arrange a substitute examination, under which conditions the
original examination becomes null and void;

55.2

In the case of the Centre for Foundation Studies, the Dean of the Centre for Foundation
Studies is empowered to cancel, postpone or stop the examination.

PROCEDURE AFTER EXAMINATION

56.1

Immediately after each examination, the Chief Invigilator shall hand over the answer
scripts to the examiner or his duly authorised representative.

56.2

The Chief Invigilator shall ensure the respective examiners collect the respective answer
scripts, the collection being officially acknowledged by the examiners / their duly
authorized representatives.

MARKING AND GRADING OF ANSWER SCRIPTS

57.1

After marking, an examiner shall hand over the answer scripts and the list of grades to the
Dean/ Head of the Department of the Kulliyyah for further appropriate action.
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 15 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
57.2

58.

The answer scripts after being marked shall be kept in safe custody for a period of at least
six months after the announcement of the results, after which the Dean of the Kulliyyah
shall arrange for their necessary destruction and disposal.

FINALIZATION OF EXAMINATION RESULTS

Meetings of the Boards of Examiners shall be called by their chairpersons to finalise the grades
and to make recommendations to the Kulliyyah Board.

PART V
APPEALS

59.

THE KULLIYYAH BOARD OF APPEALS

The Kulliyyah Board of Appeals deals with all appeals from students of the University subject to
the provisions of these regulations.

60.

MEMBERS OF KULLIYYAH BOARD OF APPEALS

60.1

Members of the Kulliyyah Board of Appeals shall comprise the following :

a)
b)
c)
d)
e)

The Dean;
The Deputy Dean (Academic Affairs);
Head of Unit or Department;
Other academic staff members of the Kulliyyah under which the course is in dispute;
Two members of the Academic staff of the University who are not the examiner or
examiners of the course or any of the courses upon which the appeal is made;
f) Any other member invited by the Dean.
60.2

61.

The examiner or examiners may, however, be called by the Board to present his/their
reports or views if deemed necessary.

CHAIRMAN OF THE KULLIYYAH BOARD OF APPEALS

The respective Dean of the Kulliyyah shall be the Chairman of the Kulliyyah Board of Appeals.

62.

SECRETARY TO THE KULLIYYAH BOARD OF APPEALS

The Kulliyyah shall provide the Secretary and the Secretariat for each Kulliyyah Board of
Appeals.

63.

RESPONSIBILITY
The Kulliyyah Board of Appeals shall submit its recommendations to the Senate for endorsement.
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 16 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
64.

PERIOD TO CONVENE MEETING OF APPEAL BOARD

The Board of Appeal shall convene within two weeks from the end of the period of appeal.

65.

GROUNDS OF APPEAL
An appeal may be made on any of the following grounds:

66.

65.1

A student who reasonably believes that, while sitting for an examination, he suffered a
peculiar hardship;

65.2

A student who reasonably believes that the examination has been improperly conducted
or that the Examination Regulations or any part thereof or rules and procedures made
thereunder have not been complied with;

65.3

A student who believes he has reasonable ground that he has been unjustly graded or an
error in the marking of his answer script or computing of grades;

65.4

A terminated student who may have valid reasons for not registering the courses;

65.5

A first year student who is dismissed on academic grounds but reasonably believes that
he has the potential to succeed in his studies;

65.6

A second, third or fourth level student who is dismissed on academic grounds but
reasonably believes that the dismissal is due to valid medical/emergency reasons;

65.7

A student who may have sufficient reason to request for an extension of his leave of
absence.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Application of appeal may take the following forms:
66.1

In cases falling under provision 65.1 or 65.2, an appeal, in writing and verified by the
Chief Invigilator or a physician recognised by the University, shall be submitted to the
Dean of the Kulliyyah within 24 hours of the scheduled examination;

66.2

In cases falling under provision 65.3, the student shall first meet or inform the Dean of
the Kulliyyah regarding the course grade that he disputes;

66.3

If the grade awarded is disputed by the student, a formal appeal in writing shall be made
to the Kulliyyah Board of Appeals. A prescribed fee per course as determined by the
Senate shall accompany the appeal. The fee shall be refunded upon a successful appeal ;

66.4

A graduating student requesting a rechecking of a course with a grade lower than C shall
register for the course. If the appeal is successful, the kulliyyah shall drop the course ;

66.5

Upon considering the appeal, the Kulliyyah may upgrade, retain or downgrade the grade.
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 17 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010

67.

PERIOD OF APPEAL
All appeals shall reach the Dean of the Kulliyyah, not later than five working days after the
beginning of the ensuing semester.

68.

APPLICATION FOR READMISSION

68.1

First Year Students

A student with no disciplinary problem who obtained a CGPA of between 1.0 and less
than 1.67 may be considered for readmission on a clean slate. The readmission shall be
allowed only once;

68.2

Other Level Students

a) A student is not eligible for readmission except due to medical or valid emergency
reasons.
b) A student shall be readmitted into the semester where the CGPA is of good standing.

PART VI
WORKLOAD
69.

WORKLOAD
The workload of any student shall be determined on the CGPA system and range of academic
load formulated by the respective Kulliyyahs as approved by the Senate.

70.

71.

MINIMUM WORKLOAD
70.1

No full-time undergraduate student is allowed to register for a workload of less than

twelve (12) credit hours or its equivalent in any regular semester unless he is a graduating
student.

70.2

Nevertheless, a student who requests to carry less than the minimum workload with valid
reasons shall get prior approval of the Dean of the Kulliyyah.

MAXIMUM WORKLOAD
Subject to Provision 70, the maximum workload of a full-time student shall be twenty-four (24)
credit hours provided where the total number of contact hours does not exceed twenty-eight (28).
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 18 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
72.

MAXIMUM WORKLOAD FOR SEMESTER III

A student may register for a maximum of two (2) courses except for graduating students (final
semester) and those who are allowed to carry additional courses as approved by the Dean of the
Kulliyyah.

73.

LATE REGISTRATION AND NON REGISTRATION

73.1

Late registration is not allowed except with valid reasons approved by the Dean of the
Kulliyyah.

73.2

If a student fails to register for any course by seventh (7th) week of the new semester with
no valid reason, the student shall be terminated from his studies. This is applicable to
students of all levels of studies.

73.3

A student who is terminated due to non-registration of courses may be allowed to resume

his studies, on condition that he provides valid reason(s) supported by relevant
documents.

PART VII
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

74.

PROGRAMME OF STUDIES
A student admitted to the University shall follow a specific programme of studies offered by a
Department or Kulliyyah.

75.

76.

MINIMUM STUDY PERIOD

75.1

The minimum number of semesters for any student to complete a degree programme in
the University is six (6) semesters. This excludes the Semester III sessions.

75.2

For a non-regular student, the minimum period is four (4) regular semesters excluding
leave of absence.

75.3

For the foundation programme, the minimum number of semesters is two (2) regular
semesters.

MAXIMUM STUDY PERIOD

The maximum number of semesters for a student to complete a degree programme in the
University is twelve (12) regular semesters, excluding leave of absence.
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 19 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
77.

CANDIDATES FOR GRADUATION

A student who has taken all the required courses as prescribed in the programme he is following
shall be considered a candidate for graduation, subject to other non-academic requirements of the
University.

78.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
A graduating student is required to fulfill the following ;

79.

80.

81.

82.

78.1

Passed all core and elective courses taken as prescribed in the programme curriculum.

78.2

Achieved an academic standing with a CGPA of at least 2.00.

78.3

Fulfilled other prescribed University requirements.

ADDITIONAL COURSES
79.1

A student may take additional courses subject to approval from the Dean of the
Kulliyyah.

79.2

Results will be reflected in the transcript and computed in the CGPA.

PRE-GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
80.1

A graduating student shall submit an application for graduation to the Kulliyyah at least
one semester prior to graduation.

80.2

Every degree programme is directly under the responsibility of the Kulliyyah concerned
and the completion of each programme rests on the evaluation and recommendation of
the Kulliyyah to the Senate.

CREDIT TRANSFER
81.1

Subject to specific approval from the Dean of the Kulliyyah, a student may apply to have
his academic credits for courses taken at another Institution, University or Kulliyyah
transferred to his current academic records for the purpose of fulfilling graduation
requirements.

81.2

The maximum number of credits transferred from outside institutions recognised by the
Senate of the University is thirty percent (30%) of the total credit hour requirement of the
programme of studies.

81.3

The minimum grade for credit transfer for diploma holders shall be B grade or its
equivalent and a good pass.

EXEMPTION
82.1

Exemption may be considered for any student based on the results of the placement tests.
As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 20 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
82.2

Credit hours for exempted courses are counted towards the total credit hours fulfilled.

PART VIII
ACADEMIC STANDING

83.

84.

GOOD ACADEMIC STANDING

83.1

A student is on good academic standing if he maintains a CGPA of 2.0 and above;

83.2

A student who registers for a combination of proficiency language courses and

programme required courses will have his academic status determined only after he has
attempted at least twelve (12) credit hours of the programme required courses;

83.3

A student who has obtained a GPA of 3.50 and above and has registered for at least
fifteen (15) credit hours or its equivalent, is eligible for the Deans List.

ACADEMIC PROBATION
84.1

A student shall be on probation when he fails to earn a CGPA of 2.00 but not less than
1.67 (1.67 CGPA < 2.00) provided that he does not obtain an F grade in more than
two (2) Kulliyyah core courses in one semester.

84.2

When on probation a student shall:

a) carry a workload of not more than fifteen (15) credit hours and reduce his cocurricular activities;
b) undergo counseling and/or remedial programme .

84.3
85.

A student on academic probation shall receive a written warning from the Kulliyyah.

ACADEMIC DISMISSAL
A student shall be dismissed from the University if:
a)

he obtains a CGPA of less than 1.67; or

b)

he fails to earn a CGPA of 2.00 or above while on probation; or

c)

he fails (with a grade of F) three (3) or more Kulliyyah courses and obtains 1.67 <
CGPA < 2.00; or

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 21 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
d)

86.

he obtains a 1.67 < CGPA < 2.00 for the third time which is non-consecutive during his
period of studies.

DISCIPLINARY, SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION

A student who is in violation of the Students' Disciplinary Rules 2004 (amendment 2006) is
subject to disciplinary action which includes suspension or expulsion. A student who is expelled
for disciplinary reasons is not eligible for readmission.

87.

88.

89.

FRESH APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION

87.1

A student who is dismissed may apply for admission into another programme by
submitting an application to the Admissions & Records Division.

87.2

Application for fresh admission shall be submitted within six (6) months after the
announcement of the examination results.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE
88.1.

A student who wishes to apply for a leave of absence shall submit an official request to
the Dean of the Kulliyyah stating the reasons and justification for leave. A student may
be given up to a maximum of one years leave.

88.2

An extension of leave of absence shall require the same approval process and shall
further require the approval by the Kulliyyah Board of Appeals.

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE UNIVERSITY

89.1
89.2

To withdraw from the University on good standing, a student shall submit a complete
prescribed form to the Dean of the Kulliyyah;
Courses registered will be dropped upon approval of withdrawal from the University

PART IX
EXTERNAL EXAMINER AND ASSESSOR

90.

EXTERNAL EXAMINER(S) AND ASSESSOR(S) FOR PROGRAMMES

External examiner(s) and/or assessor(s) may be appointed for each programme of studies.

91.

APPOINTMENT OF EXTERNAL EXAMINER(S) AND ASSESSOR(S)

91.1

The external examiner(s) or assessor(s) shall be appointed by the Senate on the

recommendation of the respective Kulliyyah Board.

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 22 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
91.2

92.

The external examiner(s) or assessor(s) may be appointed for a term not exceeding three
(3) years. The examiner(s) or assessor(s) shall not be appointed for two (2) consecutive
terms.

DUTIES OF EXTERNAL EXAMINER(S) AND/OR ASSESSOR(S)

The duties of the external examiner(s) and/or assessor(s) may include the following :

93.

92.1

to evaluate the suitability of the examination and of the examination materials and the
students performance in the examination;

92.2

to comment on the suitability of the Kulliyyahs programme and curriculum in relation to

the stated objectives of the programme and courses concerned and, where necessary, to
suggest improvements;

92.3

to comment on the suitability of methods of assessing students performance;

92.4

to offer his / their opinion on the adequacy of the facilities available for conducting the
programme and relevant courses.

REPORT BY EXTERNAL EXAMINER(S) AND EXTERNAL ASSESSOR(S)

The external examiner(s) or assessor(s) shall submit his report to the Rector.

PART X
CURRICULUM REVIEW

94.

CURRICULUM REVIEW
All academic programmes shall be reviewed at least every five years. The content review or such
other adjustments may be conducted from time to time as appropriate.

95.

BOARD OF STUDIES
A Board of Studies may be formed by the Senate for the following purposes :
a)
b)
c)

96.

to deal with matters pertaining to the development and advancement of existing

programmes;
to consider proposals for establishment of a new academic programme;
to give expert advice on the quality, suitability and equivalency of the programme.

MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF STUDIES

96.1

The members of the Board of Studies shall comprise the following:

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 23 of 24

International Islamic University Malaysia | IIUM

Student Academic Performance Evaluation Rules (SAPER) 2010
a) The Rector or Deputy Rector in-charge of academic affairs;
b) The Dean;
c) An expert in the chosen field of studies outside the University (within and/or outside
Malaysia);
d) A representative of a relevant professional body or expert agency where applicable;
e) Any other persons deemed appropriate by the University.
96.2
97.

The members shall be appointed for a minimum term of two (2) years.

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF STUDIES

The Rector or Deputy Rector in-charge of academic affairs or such other delegated individual
shall be the Chairman of the Board of Studies.

98.

SECRETARIAT TO THE BOARD OF STUDIES

The Secretary of the Board of Studies shall be appointed by the Rector.

99.

RESPONSIBILITY
The Board of Studies shall report their findings to the Senate.

PART XI
GENERAL PROVISIONS
100.

BY-LAWS
Each Kulliyyah may make by-laws pursuant to these regulations. Such by-laws shall come into
effect upon endorsement by the Senate.

101.

PREROGATIVE OF THE SENATE

101.1

The Senate reserves the right to bar, suspend or dismiss any student from the University
or any of its classes whenever such action is deemed necessary in the interest of the
University.

101.2

Notwithstanding the above Rules and Regulations, the Senate reserves the right to make
the final decision on any matter.

101.3

In the event of any disputes in connection with the interpretation of these rules and
regulations, the interpretation of the Senate shall prevail.

As endorsed in the 358th Senate Meeting held on 30th April 2010

Page 24 of 24