Requesting Excused Absences

In nearly all of my classes, students are allowed 2 unexcused absences without penalty. However, there are times when a student may have to miss class for reasons that are mostly beyond their control. Unfortunately, the university has different procedures for requesting excused absences depending on the underlying reasons for the absence.

The purpose of this page is to guide you in knowing how to request an unexcused absence depending on your circumstances. This page is not meant to be read from top to bottom, simply scroll down to find the reason that best matches your situation and follow the instructions for that section.

I am experiencing an unexpected illness (stomach flu, cold, etc.) but think I will be back to full academic functioning within 72 hours.

Please visit the Queen’s Academic Consideration Request Portal and submit a Self-Declaration for a Brief Absence. Once you’ve filed a request through the portal, i’ll receive a copy, so there’s no need to alert me further unless you will be missing an exam or previously scheduled assignment deadline.

Please note that while you may make any number of requests through the portal, the Faculty will only grant 1 request per term without documentation.

I am experiencing a serious injury or the onset of a sudden physical or mental illness that requires more than 72 hours to resume full academic functioning.

Please visit the Queen’s Academic Request Portal and submit a request for consideration in the case of Short-Term Extenuating Circumstances (72 hours – 3 months). You will be required to submit documentation for verification.

Once you’ve filed a request through the portal, please contact me so that we can work towards ensuring you meet the essential requirements of the course.

I am experiencing a traumatic event (divorce, death of a family member, etc.) and will need more than 72 hours to resume full academic functioning.

Please visit the Queen’s Academic Request Portal and submit a request for consideration in the case of Short-Term Extenuating Circumstances (72 hours – 3 months). You will be required to submit documentation for verification.

Once you’ve filed a request through the portal, please contact me so that we can work towards ensuring you meet the essential requirements of the course.

I will be participating in a university-sanctioned athletic or student affairs event at the provincial, national, or international level.

If your event is at least 2 weeks from now, you’ll be able to complete a “Request for Excused Absence for Significant Event” form and your absence will likely be excused. Complete the form and return it to the Faculty of Arts and Science.  You will be required to submit documentation to attest to your participation.

The Faculty will alert me once your paperwork has been filed. There is no need to alert me further unless you know you will miss scheduled exams or major assignment due dates.

This is a stressful time of the semester for me and I think I just need a day for self-care.

Taking care of yourself physically and mentally is an important part of being a student. This is why each of my courses allows students to have up to 2 unexcused absences without penalty. There is no need to take further action.