This hurdle is a component of the Mid-Term Test. Students need to achieve at least 25% of the marks (including marks reserved for distinction-level content, but not counting marks gained through redeemability) on the Mid-Term Test. Because of redeemability, no deferrals, alternate assessments, or weighting changes will be granted for the mid-term test, but the basic competency hurdle can be cleared through alternate assessment obtained through the ECA process.
It is important that you participate in the Mid-Term Test whenever you are able. ECAs can only be granted if you have a valid reason for not attending the test.
Hurdles are calculated on the total available marks (i.e. including both non-distinction-level and distinction-level content). You need to pass all hurdles in order to pass the course as a whole. If you fail at least one hurdle, but get more than 45% of the overall course marks, you can take a supplementary assessment, but at best (i.e. if you pass the supplementary exam), you final grade will be PS.
If you do not pass the basic competency hurdle, that means you are in real danger of failing the course overall, and should talk to student services about your options.