Understand
Family of student who died by suicide after university grading error reach settlement with Glasgow University
Overview
The family of 23-year-old Ethan Brown, who took his own life after being incorrectly told he had failed his geography degree, have reached an undisclosed financial settlement with the University of Glasgow. An internal investigation and a subsequent review by the Quality Assurance Agency revealed that a marking error led to him being given the wrong grade, which went undetected by multiple exam boards. The family's lawyer stated that the civil claim has concluded, but they continue to push for a Fatal Accident Inquiry and broader investigations into the university's academic and student welfare procedures.
Key points
- Ethan Brown died by suicide on 13 December 2024, the day he was due to graduate with a 2:1 degree from the University of Glasgow.
- An internal university investigation confirmed he received the wrong grade due to an error that was missed by staff and three exam boards.
- The Quality Assurance Agency found that the university's processes posed a "systemic risk to academic standards".
- The family's solicitor confirmed a settlement has been reached, though the amount remains undisclosed.
- A criminal investigation by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service is ongoing, and a Fatal Accident Inquiry is being considered.
- The university expressed profound sorrow, issued a sincere apology, and stated it is implementing recommendations from an independent review.