Asking a professor for an extension

Have this ready

• The syllabus, open to the late-work and extension policy
• The course name and section
• What you need, specifically, like two extra days on one assignment

What to say

1. Greeting

   “Dear Professor [last name],”

2. Who you are

   “I'm a student in your [course name and section] class.”

3. What's going on

   “I'm dealing with [a brief reason: illness / a family emergency]. I don't want to overshare, but it's affecting my work this week.”

4. Ask for something specific

   “I read the syllabus policy on late work. Would it be possible to have until [day] to turn in [assignment]?”

5. Close

   “I can share documentation if you need it. Thank you for considering it. [Your name]”

Write down the date, the name of the person you spoke with, and what they said.

After the call

• Check the syllabus for the policy on extensions and late work before you ask. Ask several days before the due date if you can. Whether to grant one is up to the professor. Source: UNC Greensboro¹
• Propose a specific solution, like a one-day extension on one assignment, instead of over-sharing and hoping they solve it. Be ready to provide documentation. Source: UC San Diego²
• If you ask after the due date, it may be too late. And if the answer is no, it isn't a judgment about you as a person. Source: UC San Diego² Don't include your student ID or other personal information unless asked. Source: UNC Greensboro¹