Public examination and grading

By selecting a degree programme you are able to see the general content as well as the possible degree programme-specific content. You do not have to select a degree programme to see the Open University's instructions.

Under this theme, you will find instructions on arranging the public examination and the grading of doctoral dissertations. Instructions on attaining permission for a public defence and publishing doctoral dissertations and instructions pertaining to doctoral graduation are available under separate themes.

The coronavirus situation affects the arrangements of public defences significantly. Don't forget to also acquaint yourself with the instructions on arranging public defences under the exceptional situation.

Instructions

Arranging the public examination

The coronavirus situation affects the arrangements of public defences significantly during the academic year 2020–2021. If your event is planned for the ongoing academic year, always follow

At the public examination

The public examination is an academic tradition that has been formed over hundreds of years. On this page, you will find information on the proceedings and the protocol of the event.

Grading the dissertation

After the public examination and the submission of the required statements, the Faculty Council will approve and grade the doctoral dissertation on a scale of fail, pass and pass with distinction (please see

Costs related to defending your thesis

There are many kind of expenses related to publishing and defending your doctoral thesis. Some of the costs are covered by the university, but some are your own responsibility. For some expenses, the university offers financial support.