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Excused absences as an accommodation are provided directly by the professor based on their course objectives and essential elements of their course. In order to receive this accommodation, you will need to have this accommodation listed on your official accommodation letter for the term in which you are requesting the accommodations.

How do I ask my professor for an Excused Absence?

You can reach out to your professor either by email, Canvas message, or in person. Most professors list their preferred method of contact on the course syllabus (which is usually posted in Canvas), so be sure to refer to your syllabus when possible.

When asking for an excused absence for a course, it is important to be very clear with your request. Be sure to clearly define the course number and section, days you were/will be absent, and any information needed to appropriately complete and turn in any missed work. It is not necessary for you to explain your symptoms to your professor, but you are more than welcome to have a dialogue with your professor. Remember that the DRC verifies and protects your ADA information, so your instructor does not need to be informed about your specific symptoms or disability during these discussions.

Below is an example of an email you can send to your instructor:

Good afternoon Professor,

I am reaching out to let you know that I need to use my Excused Absence accommodation for MATH 1010-01 on 02/25/2025. This absence is necessary due to my disability and I will make up any missed in-class work within a timely manner set by your discretion.

Thank you for your support,

[Your name]
[T01234567]

What are the guidelines for an Excused Absence accommodation?

Excused absence accommodations are provided when symptoms of your condition prevent you from attending class. Excused absences may include medical or mental health appointments needed to receive treatment or care for your condition. Depending on your condition, you may require several excused absences. You are responsible for making up any missed in-class work in a timely manner and getting caught with class material. Communicate with your professor about an appropriate timeline for making up missed work.

Excused absences do not excuse you from attending classes where essential elements may require your in-class participation to learn the material (labs, practicums, performance-based classes, etc.). It is the student's responsibility to communicate with their professor and discuss possible solutions when absences occur. It is at the professor's judgement, based on the syllabus and essential elements of the course, if absences in these types of courses can be made up.

What if I am not getting my accommodation?

If you feel you are not getting your accommodation for any reason, please reach out to your DRC case manager, we will be more than happy to help find a solution. When you contact your case manager, please include the course number and section, professor name, and an explanation of your concern.

Where can I find my accommodations?

Once you have used the for the current semester, you will receive an email containing a link to your accommodation letter. This letter will list the accommodations you have been approved for by the DRC.