diff --git a/models/schools.model b/models/schools.model
index 0c96091c9..423837b39 100644
--- a/models/schools.model
+++ b/models/schools.model
@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ School json
     examMinimumRegisterBeforeStart NominalDiffTime Maybe
     examMinimumRegisterDuration    NominalDiffTime Maybe
     examRequireModeForRegistration Bool default=false
-    examDiscouragedModes ExamModeDNF
+    examDiscouragedModes ExamModeDNF default='{"dnfTerms":[]}'
     examCloseMode ExamCloseMode default='separate'
     sheetAuthorshipStatementMode SchoolAuthorshipStatementMode default='optional'
     sheetAuthorshipStatementDefinition AuthorshipStatementDefinitionId Maybe