good reasons for an assignment extension

How To Write an Email For Extension Of Assignment

Navigating the delicate task of requesting an extension for your assignment doesn’t have to be daunting. With this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each critical step you need to undertake before crafting your email, what essential details to include within it, and offer you customizable email templates to streamline your correspondence.

Table of Contents

What To Do Before Writing the Email

What to include in the email.

When composing the email, make sure to include the following elements:

Email Template

Subject: Request for Extension of Assignment – [Course Code/Name] Dear Professor [Last Name], I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name] and I am currently enrolled in your [Course Code/Name]. I am writing to kindly request an extension for the upcoming assignment due on [Due Date]. Due to [explain your circumstances clearly and concisely], I am facing challenges in completing the assignment on time. Therefore, I would greatly appreciate it if you could grant me an extension of [number of days/weeks]. This additional time would allow me to fully address all requirements and submit a high-quality assignment. I have attached [any supporting documents or evidence if applicable] to provide further context and support my request. Please let me know if this extension is feasible, and if so, the new deadline that you deem appropriate. I understand that you may have other commitments and constraints, so I am willing to be flexible. Thank you for considering my request and for your understanding. I value your guidance and feedback, and I am committed to delivering excellent work. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Email Address] [Phone Number]

Alternative Email Template

Subject: Extension Request – [Course Code/Name] Dear Professor [Last Name], I trust this email finds you in good health. I am writing to discuss the possibility of an extension for the upcoming assignment in your [Course Code/Name]. With utmost regret, unforeseen circumstances have hindered my ability to complete the assignment within the given timeframe. These challenges include [explain your circumstances briefly]. Considering the importance of comprehensive research and original analysis required for this assignment, I kindly request an extension of [number of days/weeks]. This extension will allow me to meet the assignment’s standards and contribute to the learning objectives of the course. Your understanding and flexibility in accommodating this request would be immensely appreciated. If you require any additional information or documentation, please do not hesitate to let me know. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your favorable response. Best regards, [Your Name] [Email Address] [Phone Number]

Requesting an extension for your assignment can be a nerve-wracking task, but by following these guidelines and utilizing one of the provided email templates, you can confidently communicate your need for more time in a professional and respectful manner.

Remember, it is crucial to outline your reasons clearly, propose a realistic new deadline, and express your gratitude for the recipient’s understanding. Communicating effectively will increase your chances of receiving a positive response.

How to Ask for an Extension on a Paper (15 Strategies!)

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

This is how to ask for an extension on a paper from your professor:

• Ask for an extension as early as possible
• Ask in person (if you can)
• Show how you meet the extension policy
• Show that you care about your grade on your paper
• Suggest a solution to the problem
• Suggest a time frame that you can meet
• Provide evidence for your hardship
• Show what you’ve already done
• Ask during open office hours
• Make the email professional and respectful
• Ask for the extension in your second email, not your first
• Approach student support services
• Only ask for an extension once
• Consider asking for extensions on all your classes at once
• Tell the truth!

What you need to know about Asking for an Extension from a Professor

The rest of this article will show you how to follow those 15 steps in more detail!

Jump to Tip 1 to skip my introduction

Asking for an extension on a paper can be hard.

Sometimes you don’t know how to write an extension email request to your professor, or what to say to increase your chances of success.

Extended deadlines can be really useful when you want to boost your grades or are juggling study with real life. But you need to be strategic about your request.

Teachers have very different approaches to extending deadlines.

Some are very flexible, others almost impossible to budge.

Teachers get extension requests from up to 25 percent of all students in their course. That’s why they’re often so reluctant to give you an extension. Granting extensions can become a huge chore for teachers.

You need to be careful about how you ask to extend your assessment deadline. This is because asking for an extension doesn’t automatically guarantee that you will get it.

You also want to ask for the extension in a way that doesn’t lead to a penalty and decreased marks.

Many universities have policies where students are given penalties per day an assignment is submitted past its deadline. This is particularly the case in universities that give number scores out of 100 such as in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.

However, even in North America, you may find that your teacher will move your markdown from a B+ to a B- because your work was late and your excuse was not good enough.

As a university teacher, I estimate that I have had well over 400 students ask for extensions over the past decade of teaching. I have also managed other university teachers and seen how they go about granting or denying extensions.

Overwhelmingly, the students who got the extensions were those who followed most of the below key steps.

Read also: The 9 Top Extension Excuses and How to Ask Them Read also: 15+ Tips on Requesting an Extension

1. Ask for an Extension Early

Asking for an extension within 3 days (72 hours) of your due date looks really bad. It signifies to your teacher that you hadn’t started early enough and are now panicking.

Teachers are very much less likely to give extensions within 3 days of the due date.

The majority of papers are due on Fridays. If your paper is due on Friday, the latest you want to ask for an extension is Tuesday.

I always recommend to my students that they complete their assignment at least 7 days (preferably 14) before the submission deadline . This is so that when things go wrong in their lives they can still submit in time.

You are probably very busy with your job and family commitments. Nonetheless, you’ll need to find time to start your work early in order to avoid asking for an extension altogether.

When you’ve graduated and you’re out in the workforce, extensions aren’t an option.

Your boss isn’t going to say the night before your big presentation to a client “Oh, you got busy this week? No problem. We’ll ask the client to come back next week.”

Your boss is more likely to show you the door.

However, there are exceptional circumstances in your life that can be used as appropriate excuses for extensions . Some of these are:

• an upcoming surgery,
• a pre-booked vacation,
• you’re a carer for your parent, child, or partner

In these circumstances, you should get in touch with your teacher early on to ask for an extension. Ask as soon as you know that submitting on time will be a problem.

If you’ve found yourself in a situation where you need to ask for an extension a day or two before the due date, you might be out of luck. However, try the tips below to make the best out of a bad situation.

2. Show the Professor your Course or University Policy

There should be an extension policy that outlines what counts for an extension and what doesn’t. If you consult that policy you will be in a much better position to apply for the extension.

I recommend bringing the policy to the professor in order that they know you’re serious about applying. However, be careful not to look like you’re insisting on the extension.

Instead, approach the professor with the policy and tell them that you think you might qualify for an extension under the terms of the policy. Then, ask the professor whether they would consider approving the extension under those terms.

I find it much harder to refuse an extension if the student has laid the groundwork for their extension request. It’s very hard to tell the student that you are going against university policy and denying them an extension.

Similarly, your professor may have created their own policy. Search through the course materials on your course’s website (Moodle, Canvas, or Blackboard) to see whether there is any mention of extensions.

This is easier than it sounds. Simply download the little-read key documents on the course homepage that are generally labeled:

• Course Handbook;
• Module Guide;
• Subject Overview; or
• Some combination of the above titles

Then, conduct a word search in those documents (usually Control + F or Command + F) for the word “Extension” or “Late”. That should take you to the professor’s wording for their own policy.

Similarly, to look for university policy, simply conduct a search for ‘Extension Policy’ on your university’s website.

3. Show your Professor that you care about your Grade

When you contact your teacher either face-to-face or by email, you need to let them know you’re asking for an extension on the deadline because you really care about your grade.

Your reason for an extension request can be seen in two ways:

• You want an extension because getting a top mark is your priority and you need more time for that to happen; or
• You want an extension because other things in your life were a priority instead of writing the paper

Some of the best extension requests that come into my inbox start with a statement about your goal. Students often say ‘My goal is to receive X grade in all my subjects in order to qualify for a Master’s degree, further education, or a specific internship’.

Laying out what your goal is to show that you are asking for the extension because you want to do the best you can.

A teacher is much more likely to grant an extension to a student who wants one to ensure they do well. On the flip side, they will be less likely to grant an extension if you haven’t shown an interest or commitment to the subject.

Here’s where building a relationship with your professor in advance comes in very handy. If you’ve already got a long chain of email discussions or had some quality face-to-face chats about the subject, your extension request will be looked upon more kindly.

Every extension request you send should start with a statement showing that you want the extension because you are prioritizing the subject.

You do not want to leave the impression that you want the extension because other things took precedence over your studies.

4. Suggest a Solution so you Won’t Run out of Time Again

No matter how long you ask for, you need to use the extension request to show your good side: that you’re a fixer, not a complainer.

A great way to do this is to explain how you are going to fix the issue so it won’t happen again . If you’ve asked for an extension because you have run out of time you could:

• Explain that you have now freed up time every Monday afternoon to go to the library to study;
• Let your teacher know you’ve booked in for some study skills sessions at the library to learn to manage your time better; or
• Explain that you have talked to your boss about ensuring your shifts don’t clash with university activities anymore

5. Suggest a Time Frame for your Extended Deadline

Be proactive about what you want to happen if your deadline is extended. To do this, it’s best to let your teacher know how long you think you need.

Professors are often very busy people. They manage large groups of students, colleagues, and clients. They’re often off campus for multiple days working in the field.

Because they are so busy, they will likely approve the solution that your present to them. It makes the issue quick and easy for them and gets it off their plate.

Suggesting a solution and timeframe also shows that you have thought about what to do.

In this instance, the extension request can be seen in these two ways. You have come to the teacher and either said:

• “Here’s my problem – can you find a solution for me?”; or
• “Here’s my problem – I have identified a solution. Do you approve of my solution?”

Teachers are impressed when students have taken matters into their own hands. We want students to show that they are proactive problem solvers.

I recommend asking for an extension of between 2 and 7 days:

• 2 Days: Your 2-day extension request is an opportunity to say “I’ve done most of it well in advance, but after doing some more thinking and reading I think I need to make some edits. Can you give me 2 quick days to make those changes so I can submit by a best possible piece of work?”
• 7 Days: Your 7-day extension request is for bigger issues. This request is basically confessing that you haven’t really done much planning. For a 7-Day request, highlight that the problem or issue that you’re facing (Sickness? Family emergency?) might drag on into next week, so 7 days is a reasonable timeframe.

6. Provide Evidence for your Extension Request Immediately

Evidence is usually your golden ticket for an extension. The minute a doctor’s certificate is thrust under my nose I sign on the dotted line: Extension Granted.

While a doctor’s certificate is the ideal form of evidence, not all situations call for it. Here are some forms of evidence I’ve accepted in the past:

• An email from a child’s teacher. If your child has been home sick for the week, ask your teacher to drop your professor an email as evidence that the child has been off sick.
• A letter from your boss. If your boss has asked you to come in to do some extra shifts, ask your boss to return the favor and write a quick hand-written letter noting that they’ve needed to call on you.
• A receipt from a computer or car repair shop. Computer issues are one of the most common extension requests. If you don’t provide a receipt from the repairman or a photo of the issue, your teacher might scoff. The same goes for car issues. If the issue is with a car, be prepared for your teacher to respond: “Ever heard of a bus?”
• Newspaper clippings. This one’s surprisingly common. If you were in a car accident, the victim of a crime, or you had a death in the family, these things are often reported in the local newspaper. Take out the newspaper report or death notice from the ‘Births, Deaths and Marriages’ page and give it to your teacher.

No matter what the evidence is, it goes a long way.

If you provide evidence in your first email or conversation with your teacher, they’ll be impressed by your preparedness and are more likely sign off the extension on the spot. If you don’t, be prepared to be told to go away and come back with some evidence of hardship.

7. Show what You’ve Already Done on your Paper to Increase your Chances of Getting an Extension

This strategy works as a treat.

Come to your teacher saying “I’ve made an effort – look!”

Like the above points, this one shows that you’ve put some thought into the extension request.

You aren’t coming to them expecting a hand-out. Instead, you’re coming to the teacher with something to offer.

Showing that you’ve made a substantial start shows the teacher that you didn’t just forget about the assignment. It also shows that you haven’t totally prioritized everything else in your life. You’ve put thought into it, at least!

You can attach your draft in your request email or bring it in person. While you’re at it, highlight one point where you’ve been struggling.

When showing a draft, it’s a good idea to say “One of the reasons I’m not finished is I hit writer’s block at X point. It’s taken me weeks and I just haven’t been able to figure it out!”

In other words, your draft says to your teacher: “I’ve been thinking about this a lot! I want to do well, and this class matters to me.”

8. Ask for an Extension in Person if you Can

Asking for your extension in person can be one saving grace late in the game. If you’re within that 72 hours before the submission zone, asking in person might be your one chance to save the day.

When you ask in person, it makes it look like you’ve thought things through.

You’re saying: this request isn’t just an email slapped together at 11 pm the night the paper is due. I’ve been thinking it over for a day or two, and thought “hey, I really need to talk to someone about this.”

Here’s the other key benefit of asking in person: It humanizes you .

It is so much easier to say ‘No’ to an email than a person standing in front of you, cap in hand.

Don’t forget to bring a few things with you when you ask in person:

• An extension request form . If your university has an official request form, print it out and bring it with you. Ensure that it’s completely filled in, and all it requires is the teacher’s signature. As I said earlier in this post, teachers are busy. If you present an easy solution, chances are they’ll take it.
• Evidence or a draft . As I noted above, evidence of hardship is the golden ticket. Bring it with you to the face-to-face meeting. Similarly, waving a draft under your teacher’s nose shows them that you’ve gotten out of the starting blocks – you’re just not quite ready to submit

9. Ask for the Extension During Open Office Hours

The trick for this one is to bring a list of questions with you.

Come to open office hours with a list of 7 – 10 questions about the assessment.

Most of these questions should be to ask for clarity or advice on how to write the piece.

For example, you can ask the professor which scholarly sources they recommend, whether your thesis statement is okay, and whether the key points you’ll talk about will win you marks.

The question “Can I have an extension on this paper?” should be the last question you ask.

Asking for the extension last makes it look like you’ve not just come to open office hours for this one reason. It also shows you genuinely care and are engaged in the coursework.

If you’ve already developed a relationship with the professor and have attended open office hours previously, this trick will work even better!

10. Ensure any Extension Email request is Professional and Respectful

I know that many of my readers are online or distance learners.

For you, an email is an obvious and only way to ask for an extension.

For those students who can’t ask in person, remember that your email request must be professional and respectful in order to maximize your chances of having the extension granted.

This is so important, yet so often overlooked.

Students these days! They send emails like they’re text messages.

The way your email is crafted either shows you care, or that you’re a spoiled brat.

Seriously – you should hear the things teachers say about students in the faculty lounge.

Don’t give them an excuse to tell all their other colleagues that you’re a brat.

Here are some essential points for any email asking for an extension:

• Formal Greeting. Start it with a formal greeting, a comma, and then start a new line. Remember this is formal: you’d be shocked how many times students get my name wrong and don’t use capital letters for names. It looks terrible .
• Statement of Goals. Ensure you remember to state what your goal is, and how long you would like the extension for, provide evidence and let them know how far through you currently are (Steps 2 to 5 above)
• Formal Farewell. End it with a formal salutation – ‘Regards,’ ‘Yours truly,’ and ‘Sincerely,’ all work well
• Your Details. After the formal salutation, provide your full name and the class you’re in. Your teacher has many classes and teaches many courses. Ensure they know immediately which class you’re in. One year I had seven Katies and they all left out their surnames when emailing me. I was consistently confused.

These seem like self-evident points, but it’s ridiculous how many students fail to send respectful, formal emails.

11. Ask for an Extension in your Second Email, Not your First

If you send an initial email asking questions about the assignment content, your teacher will be more likely to give you an extension.

For example, often a student will email me 10 days before the paper is due asking for tips and advice. I’ll bank in my head “Hey, this student really wants to do well.”

Then when it comes time for you to email your professor to ask for an extension, the professor already knows you’re a good, engaged student.

The professor should be reminded that you’ve been working really hard on this piece, which will play into their decision-making when they decide whether or not to give you an extension.

One way to remind your teacher of how you’ve been working hard is to send your extension request email as a ‘reply’ to your previous email discussion. In this way, your teacher will be able to see all previous correspondence and see how hard you’ve been working.

12. Approach Student Support Services

For all universities I’ve worked at I’ve gotten emails from student support services insisting I give a student an extension.

Often, a disability support officer or a student counselor even has authority over the course teacher to grant extensions.

Therefore, if you feel you have cause to go to student services for counseling support or support for a disability, that’s a great avenue.

There are a few important things to keep in mind, though:

• You will need to do this well in advance. A booking with a counselor may take a week to organize. Then, the counselor may need to conduct a needs assessment, which will take even more time.
• Just booking the appointment may be enough. If your counselor needs to conduct further assessments or refuses to advocate for an extension for you, that’s okay. Contact your professor to ask for an extension of the deadline for the paper and state that you’ve been to see a counselor. This will make it look like you’ve been really proactive about the situation.
• You may not get the support you wanted. A counselor or student support staff member may deny a request. So, make sure you have good grounds to seek support before taking this route.
• Consider applying for an Extended Deadline as a Group

This happens often. A full class of students approaches the teacher and announces that there has been a glut of assignment deadlines all clustered together into one week.

Very, very often, teachers will negotiate with one another to ensure the deadlines do not clash.

Therefore, it might be a good idea to seek a representative to ask the teacher for an extension. A great time to do this is when the whole course cohort is together in a lecture or seminar . The teacher may ask for a show of hands to see that there’s strength in numbers.

Alternatively, the strength in-numbers strategy could be done by email. Email both professors whose deadlines clash and ask them whether they can discuss together the possibility of moving the deadlines.

Once again the earlier in the semester you do this strategy the better.

13. Ensure you only Ask for an Extension Once

One extended deadline for a paper is surely enough. If you ask for another extended deadline on your second paper, you’ll start getting a bad reputation. Then, rejections for extensions will get more and more common.

I’m not only talking about one extension per course here. I’m talking about one extension period .

Keep in mind that teachers love to gossip. If you’ve asked for an extension, you can put good money on word getting around the faculty lounge that you’ve done so.

In fact, often we’ll email each other right away to discuss and coordinate responses to extension requests.

To avoid a bad name, only ask for extensions rarely – preferably only once in your degree.

If you’ve got a good track record of submitting on time, this will be a tick in your corner when you ask for an extension.

Feel free to remind your teacher that this is your first-ever extension request. But don’t lie – they’ll check with your other teachers.

14. Ask for a Blanket Extension for all your Courses at Once

If you really need more than one extension due to a big life challenge, I’d recommend copying all of your teachers into one email letting them all know that you’d like one blanket extension for all coming deadlines.

One great tip for this blanket request strategy is to search for the academic who is in charge of your major or overall course and get them to coordinate the blanket extension for you.

To find out who is in charge of your overall major, check the College’s webpage that discusses your major and look for the name of the key faculty contact on that page.

15. Tell the Truth about why you want an Extension

Above I mentioned that teachers talk.

Boy, do teachers talk. They gossip in the faculty lounge, they send emails to one another about students and they’re notoriously condescending.

Any extension excuse you share with the teacher, your other teachers will know about it.

Sometimes this works in your favor – a teacher will already have heard you’re having a rough time and treat you with a little more care.

But, sometimes it doesn’t work in your favor at all. Especially when you lie.

Have I told you the story of the girl who had 3 grandmothers die in 2 years? That was a head-scratcher. Yep. It happened – and yep, the faculty was well aware that she was a chronic liar.

She never got an extension request granted again. So don’t lie – It’ll come back to bite you.

Your story needs to be consistent. Teachers talk to one another and they love to gossip about students. If your story to one teacher conflicts with the story to another, word will get around.

Okay, so you’ve got your 15 tips on how to ask a professor for an extension on a paper. Now it’s time to check out our 9 common extension excuses post to make sure your extension excuse won’t fall flat. There are tons of tips and strategies packed into that post that’ll help you with your request!

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 20 Montessori Toddler Bedrooms (Design Inspiration)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 101 Hidden Talents Examples

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The Best Way To Ask For An Extension On An Assignment

Sometimes, life gets pretty stressful with assignments on top of other priorities, especially with the current state of world affairs. It’s easy to bog yourself down with responsibilities, which can affect your mental health and leave you with a looming deadline and last-minute panic over failing a paper because you turned it in late. Instead of trying to get things done all at once, maybe it’s best to ask for an extension on one of your due dates.

Extensions can only be beneficial to your workload and mental health and are, at times, necessary for students to perform their absolute best . If you’re feeling overwhelmed by just about everything going on right now, whether due to illness or general college stress , it might be time to bite the bullet and ask. You might be asking yourself how to send that dreaded email to your professor, or what counts as a good excuse in the first place. We’ve got you covered — here’s how to ask for an extension on an assignment, according to college professors, and an example email template if you need a bit more help with wording your request.

When You Should Ask For An Extension

The idea of being unable to submit every one of your assignments on time may be nerve-racking, but sometimes it’s not a bad thing to ask for an extension. Maybe you’ve realized you have an essay due in every class on the same day. Maybe you’re just trying to spice up your final report so it’s the best it can be! Shawn Kildea, an assistant professor of communication at Rider University , says that students can ask for an extension if they want to add a few elements to their project to improve it as a whole.

“If a student is working on a project and makes it clear that by having more time they can dramatically improve the piece by adding an element they can’t capture in the deadline time frame, I’ll usually offer an extension,” he says.

It’s also worth asking for an extension on an assignment if you are struggling with unclear directions, or if you don’t have the sufficient resources to complete the assignment. This could be affecting the entire class, so expressing your concerns to your professor may be the best way to go. “I will extend a deadline if I believe that my directions were unclear or if the deadline proves too unrealistic, or if a majority of the class appears to be struggling,” says Jason Method, a journalism instructor at Rider University.

RELATED: HERE’S HOW TO CRAFT THE PERFECT COLLEGE SCHEDULE THIS SEMESTER

It may prove to be an advantage if you are studious and hardworking when it comes to a deadline extension. “If a student has been doing their homework and doing well on tests or quizzes, then if they ask for an extension and offer a decent reason, I’m inclined to listen,” Method says.

One of the biggest things to keep in mind when you’re planning on asking for an extension is that you shouldn’t wait until the very last minute to do so! It will look as if you’ve procrastinated, which won’t leave a good impression on your professors (or one day, on your employers).

“I always tell my students that I almost never grant a last-minute extension request,” says Barry Janes, a communications professor at Rider University. “If they ask earlier, it shows that the assignment is on their minds, and whatever concerns or problems they are having seem more legitimate.”

If you establish early on that more time for your assignment is going to be necessary, ask as soon as possible. Then, explain to your professor what that additional time will help you to accomplish. It may feel like you’re failing in your responsibilities by needing to ask for more time, but if you approach it in a mature way, professors are going to be inclined to listen. 

How To Ask For An Extension

Even if you’re ready to request an extension, you may still be at a loss as to what to say. An email to your professor is probably your best bet. Be polite, explain that you’re requesting an extension, give your reason why, and offer your proposed new deadline. Short and sweet is perfect; no need to try to embellish! 

Still not sure what to say? Give this a try:

Dear Professor ________,

I’ve been having a hard time linking up with my final source for my term paper, and in order for it to be the best it can be, I could really use a little extra time to have the chance to speak with her and incorporate her quotes. Would it be possible to have an extension through the weekend, and turn it in on Monday instead of Friday?

Please let me know if you would like me to meet with you during your office hours to discuss this further.

[Your name] 

It’s no fun to burn out and exhaust yourself mentally as you try to get all of your work done. Asking for an extension may seem scary, but it’s a whole lot better than failing the assignment — or the class altogether ! And hey, the worst that your professor can say is no. Either way, it’s worth a try!

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Ask a Professor: How to Ask for an Extension on an assignment

Assessing the Situation

Understand Your Professor's Policies

How to write a polite and professional email: After that, you'll understand How to Ask for an Extension on an assignment

Follow-Up and Be Prepared

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Effective communication with professors is a crucial skill that can greatly impact your academic journey, especially when it comes to requesting an extension on an assignment. Knowing how to ask for an extension in a clear and respectful manner is essential. In this article, we will explore the significance of effective communication when asking for an extension and discuss common reasons that may necessitate one. By approaching extension requests professionally and respectfully, you can increase the likelihood of receiving a positive response from your professor and maintain a healthy student-professor relationship.

As students, we may encounter various situations when we really need assignment help . That's when knowing how to ask for an extension becomes important. Unexpected personal emergencies, health issues, overlapping deadlines, or an increased workload can all be valid reasons. However, it is crucial to approach the request in a professional and respectful manner. By doing so, you demonstrate your commitment to your education and show respect for your professor's time and expectations.

It is important to understand that professors are not obligated to grant extension requests. They have their own regulations and considerations to keep in mind. Therefore, to improve your chances of receiving a favorable response, it is crucial to effectively articulate your request. Acknowledge the significance of the assignment, express understanding of the potential impact on your grades, and suggest a fair deadline for completion.

By mastering the art of effective communication and knowing how to ask for an extension professionally, you can navigate the process with confidence. Remember to be respectful, provide valid reasons, and propose realistic solutions. Through open and respectful communication, you can foster understanding and cooperation with your professors, ensuring a smoother academic experience.

Assessing the Situation:

When you are faced with the problem "How to Ask for an Extension on an Assignment" it is important to assess the situation carefully before contacting your professor. Here are some key steps to consider:

• Evaluate the validity of your reasons for requesting an extension: Take an honest look at the reasons behind your request. Are they legitimate and reasonable? Ensure that you have valid grounds for needing additional time to complete the assignment.
• Consider the assignment's requirements: Review the assignment guidelines and instructions carefully. Understand the scope, complexity, and time required to fulfill the task. Assess whether your initial estimation of the workload was accurate and if it aligns with the given timeframe.
• Evaluate your workload: Reflect on your overall workload, including other assignments, exams, and commitments. Determine whether the combination of tasks makes it genuinely challenging to complete the assignment on time. Be mindful of the workload distribution and prioritize accordingly.
• Take personal circumstances into account: Sometimes unforeseen personal circumstances can arise, such as illness, family emergencies, or unexpected events. Consider whether these circumstances significantly affect your ability to complete the assignment within the given timeframe. Ensure that your request is reasonable and supported by genuine circumstances.
• Determine a realistic and justified timeline extension: Based on your evaluation of the above factors, determine a timeline extension that is realistic and justifiable. Consider the additional time required to produce quality work without compromising other academic responsibilities.

Remember that ask for an extension on an assignment should be a balanced decision made in case of real need and with proper justification. A careful assessment of the situation will allow you to address the professor with a well-founded and reasoned request, which will increase the likelihood of a positive response.

Plan Ahead:

Planning ahead is crucial to avoid the need for extensions and ensure a smooth completion of assignments. Here are some important steps to follow:

• Be aware of assignment deadlines and schedule your work accordingly: Familiarize yourself with the deadlines for all your assignments. Create a calendar or use a planner to keep track of important dates. Break down the assignment into smaller tasks and allocate specific time slots for each task. By staying organized and proactive, you can effectively manage your time and reduce the chances of needing an extension.
• Anticipate potential challenges and allocate extra time: Recognize that challenges may arise during the assignment process. It could be difficulties understanding the material, technical issues, or unexpected circumstances. Make room in your agenda for some extra time to take into consideration these possible obstacles. By doing this, you build a buffer that enables you to deal with unexpected events without requesting an extension.
• Avoid leaving assignments until the last minute: Procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and increase the likelihood of needing an extension. Start working on assignments as soon as they are assigned. Break them down into manageable chunks and work on them consistently over time. By avoiding last-minute rushes, you give yourself ample time to complete the assignment to the best of your ability.

By planning ahead, you take control of your assignments and reduce the need for extensions. Being aware of deadlines, anticipating challenges, and avoiding procrastination enable you to manage your workload effectively. Remember, effective time management is a valuable skill that not only helps you meet deadlines but also allows for a more balanced and less stressful academic experience.

Understand Your Professor's Policies:

Understanding your professor's policies regarding extensions is crucial when requesting additional time for an assignment. Here are some steps to help you navigate their policies effectively:

• Check your instructor's syllabus or course policy for an understanding of how to ask for an extension on an assignment: Review the syllabus or any documents describing course policies provided by your instructor. Pay particular attention to any specific information regarding assignment due dates and extension requests. Understand your instructor's guidelines and expectations for extensions.
• Take note of any specific instructions or guidelines provided: Your professor may have outlined specific procedures or requirements for requesting an extension.Any instructions given, such as whether you need to submit a formal request, the request's format, or any other supporting paperwork that may be needed, should be noted down. Respecting your professor's policies and committing to following the established procedures are demonstrated by following these directions.
• Respect the professor's discretion in granting extensions: It's important to remember that the decision to grant an extension ultimately lies with your professor. Respect their authority and judgment when considering your request. Keep in mind that they may have multiple students requesting extensions and various factors to consider. Approach the request with professionalism and an understanding that the professor's decision is final.

By familiarizing yourself with your professor's policies and guidelines, you demonstrate your commitment to following their expectations. Respecting their discretion in granting extensions shows your understanding of the academic process and your willingness to comply with their decisions. Understanding the policies helps you navigate the extension request process smoothly and increases the likelihood of a positive outcome.

How to write a polite and professional email: After that, you'll understand How to Ask for an Extension on an assignment.

When requesting an extension from your professor, it is important to communicate your request in a polite and professional manner. Here are the key elements to include in your email:

• Begin by extending a cordial and respectful greeting to the lecturer as appropriate: Use a formal salutation at the beginning of your email, like "Dear Professor [Last Name]" or "Hello Professor [Last Name]." A professional tone is established in your email by addressing them respectfully and using the correct title.
• Clearly state the purpose of your email, mentioning the specific assignment and deadline: In the opening paragraph, clearly state the purpose of your email. Mention the specific assignment that you are requesting an extension for and include the original deadline.
• Explain the reason for your extension request concisely, while being honest and transparent: In the following paragraph, concisely explain the reason behind your extension request. Be honest and transparent about your circumstances, whether they are personal, academic, or related to unforeseen events. Keep your explanation clear and to the point.
• Express your understanding of the potential impact on your grades and the importance of the assignment: Acknowledge the potential impact that the extension may have on your grades. Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of the assignment and its role in your overall academic progress. This shows that you take your responsibilities seriously.
• Propose a new deadline and provide a plausible explanation for the requested extension: Suggest a new deadline for the assignment that allows you sufficient time to complete it effectively. Provide a plausible explanation for why you need the extension, making sure it aligns with the reasons you mentioned earlier. Justify the new deadline based on the circumstances you are facing.
• Provide a strategy describing how you'll finish the work in the extra time: Confide in your professor that you have a strategy in place to finish the work in the extra time. Describe the precise actions you'll take to assure both the quality of your work and a timely submission. This demonstrates your dedication and foresight.
• Express gratitude for the professor's consideration and sign off respectfully: In the closing paragraph, express your gratitude for the professor's time and consideration of your request. Thank them for their understanding and mention how their support will assist you in meeting the assignment requirements. Sign off your email respectfully, using phrases such as "Thank you for your consideration" or "Best regards."

By crafting a polite and professional email, you demonstrate your respect for your professor and increase the chances of receiving a positive response. Remember to maintain a courteous tone throughout the email and ensure that your request is supported by valid reasons and a well-thought-out plan.

Follow-Up and Be Prepared:

After sending your extension request email to your professor, it's important to follow up and be prepared for the response. Here are some steps to take:

• Be patient and allow time for the professor to respond to your email: Professors have busy schedules, so it's essential to be patient and give them time to review your request. Avoid sending multiple follow-up emails too soon. Respect their workload and wait for a reasonable amount of time before expecting a response.
• You should be ready for both a favorable and unfavorable response: Even though you may be hoping for a favorable reaction, it's crucial to be ready in case it's not. You should mentally prepare yourself to accept your professor's decision politely since they might not always offer extensions. You will be better able to navigate potential solutions if you are psychologically prepared.
• If you are granted an extension, make sure that you meet the new deadline and do your work at a high level, because you will not have another attempt "how to ask a professor for an extension": If your professor has granted your request for an extension, respect his or her decision by meeting the new deadline. Use the extra time wisely to complete the assignment to the best of your ability. Maintain the same level of dedication and perform to a high standard that reflects your commitment and appreciation for the extension.
• If denied, accept the decision gracefully and consider alternative solutions: If your request for an extension is denied, accept the decision respectfully. Understand that professors may have various reasons for their decision, such as maintaining fairness or adhering to course policies. Instead of dwelling on the denial, focus on alternative solutions. Seek help from a tutor, utilize academic resources, or consider rearranging your priorities to ensure timely completion of the assignment.

Remember that the response to your extension request is ultimately up to your professor. By being patient, prepared for different outcomes, and flexible in finding alternatives, you display maturity and professionalism. Regardless of the response, maintain a positive attitude, and continue to work diligently on your academic responsibilities.

Conclusion:

Finally, effective communication and professional behavior are of paramount importance when wondering how to ask for an extension on an assignment. By planning ahead, understanding your instructor's policy, and approaching your request with respect, you increase your chances of receiving a positive response. However, it is important to remember that students should be responsible for their work and that extensions should only be used as a last resort.

Planning ahead and managing your time effectively can minimize the need for extensions. By familiarizing yourself with assignment deadlines, anticipating challenges, and avoiding procrastination, you can stay on track and complete your work within the given timeframe.

Understanding your professor's policies regarding extensions is crucial. By adhering to their guidelines and respecting their discretion, you demonstrate your commitment to the academic process and foster a positive student-professor relationship.

While extensions may be necessary under certain circumstances, it is important to approach them as a last resort. Taking responsibility for your assignments, seeking help when needed, and prioritizing your workload can help prevent the need for extensions.

Remember, effective communication, planning, and responsibility are key to navigating the process of requesting an extension. By demonstrating professionalism and respect, you not only increase the chances of a favorable response but also develop valuable skills that will serve you well throughout your academic and professional journey.

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How to Ask a Professor for an Extension + Example Emails

May 10, 2023

So, you want to learn how to ask a professor for an extension, but you’re afraid of sounding like a slacker, or of getting on your professor’s bad side. Luckily, we have some dos and don’ts that should cover your questions. The first one is simple: please do not, under any circumstances, use the example below as a template.

This Is Not How to Ask for an Extension on an Assignment

Dear Professor S.,

I’m so so sorry but I won’t be able to turn in the final assignment on time. There’s an issue going on in my dorm room and it’s really, truly and utterly gross (I won’t go into the details). I’ll make sure to get the assignment to you soon. Please know that I’m really bummed to be doing this, because your course really was my favorite course this semester.

While Charles wrote his email in earnest, he made multiple gaffes that only added more awkwardness to an already confusing request. (In fact, Charles forgot to phrase his request as a question!) Yet asking for extra time should not become an additional crisis on top of other stress. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to ask for an extension on an assignment.

What’s Your Excuse?

Turning in an assignment late can cause anxiety for students. Many fear getting points docked or a lower final grade. Some view it as doing something “wrong” and end up feeling preemptively guilty or undeserving of the extra time. These anxious feelings can manifest in the request itself. (Just look at Charles’s overly effusive apology.) However, a lot of valid reasons for an extension exist. The first successful step in how to ask a professor for an extension requires clarifying your situation.

Let’s say you have a funeral to attend, you fall sick, or, as was Charles’s case, you discover a bedbug infestation. All of these reasons qualify as unexpected crises you couldn’t plan for. In urgent circumstances like these, professors tend to take an accommodating stance for last-minute requests. They have lives outside of academics too, and know how the real world can intervene.

Less urgent circumstances that require you to know how to ask for an extension might involve a conflict of deadlines in different classes, or a wedding to attend. To increase your chances, make your request as far ahead as possible, as soon as you learn of the conflict.

Professors may not accommodate every request, especially if the student simply procrastinated. But whatever your circumstances, do give your professor the real reason. Honesty always comes across as most genuine and requires fewer justifications. Plus, treating the situation in a mature manner will result in the professor responding in kind, and taking your request more seriously.

How to Ask for an Extension on an Assignment to Improve Your Work

A less typical, last-minute, yet non-urgent request can arise when students find they don’t understand how to accomplish the assignment. Similarly, they may find they aren’t satisfied with the quality or direction of their work. Asking for more time to improve your work can sound reasonable to a professor. The trick here involves specifying exactly why you need more time and what you wish to improve. Consider asking for suggestions as well before going forward. Most professors prefer grading a student’s best effort rather than a sloppy, punctual paper, and will be willing to help those who show enthusiasm for their subject.

Act Accordingly

With the various types of impediments and conflicts identified, let’s consider the best approaches for how to ask for an extension. If in doubt, and especially in an emergency, send an email. When emailing, include these three vital pieces of information:

1) Explain the situation you’re facing.

2) Suggest a specific alternative deadline. This date should be reasonable, both in terms of reorganizing your own schedule, and with respect to the teacher’s semester. Avoid an overly-optimistic deadline; you won’t impress your teacher if you’re forced to ask for an extended extension.

3) Ask about the teacher’s late policy, if you don’t know it already. If this information is included in the course syllabus, acknowledge the late policy in writing. Perhaps your teacher docks points regardless, in which case, you’ll want to know how many for each day the assignment is late. You may need to weigh your priorities, and decide which to sacrifice, promptness or quality.

How to Ask a Professor for an Extension During Office Hours

If you’re trying to juggle multiple courses’ assignments, or want an extension with more guidance, send a preliminary email asking to meet with your professor. Do email first, because waylaying your professor after class can stress everyone out. Once a meeting is scheduled, the face-to-face chat may prove more successful, simply because it’s harder to say no in person. This meeting also gives your professor a chance to put a face to a name, and will give you a chance to say something about what you’re working on. Extra guidance like new leads and library references may also speed up your progress.

Putting the How in How to Ask a Professor for an Extension

Let’s return to Charles’ email, and imagine how his professor might react. Reading about a “really, truly and utterly gross,” mystery situation doesn’t give the professor any idea of the student’s trouble, nor of how severe it is, or how long it will last. The professor has no incentive to act leniently, and no opportunity to sympathize. If anything, the vague description evokes confusion, pity, and doubt.

Imagine instead that Charles wrote, “I just discovered a bedbug infestation in my dorm room. According to pest control, I’ll need to spend the weekend bagging up my possessions before an exterminator arrives. Then I’ll have to find a different place to sleep and study for the coming week.” Here Charles goes into enough detail to delineate the situation. It becomes clear that a bedbug infestation is time consuming, as well as psychologically and physically taxing. Though unusual, Charles’ reason for wanting an extension now sounds perfectly legitimate.

You can avoid Charles’s main mistake by articulating your situation clearly and concisely. With a big emphasis on concisely. If you’re going to a funeral, you don’t need to convince your teacher that you loved your grandmother. If you’re sick, you don’t need to list your symptoms. A brief email saves your harried professor some time, and gives students practice in establishing their own personal boundaries. Overall, a brief email will sound professional and sincere.

Another must when learning how to ask a professor for an extension involves tone. The right register will come across as respectful and somewhat formal. Change phrases like “I’m really bummed” to “I regret.” Apologize, but don’t overdo it. One apology appropriately recognizes the inconvenience the professor may experience.

How to Ask a Professor for an Extension, Example 1

Now let’s take a look at Charles’ improved urgent request.

Dear Professor Sassin,

I’m Charles Yu, from your Modern Architecture seminar. I’m writing to let you know about a situation that’s come up. I just discovered a bedbug infestation in my dorm room. According to pest control, I’ll need to spend the weekend bagging up my possessions before an exterminator arrives. Then I’ll have to find a different place to sleep and study for the coming week.

Because of this, I’m afraid I won’t have time to work on the final assignment until next week. Would you consider a one-week extension, with a new deadline on May 25? If so, please let me know how this extension might affect my grade.

I apologize in advance for the inconvenience, and am open to other suggestions you may have.

Best regards,  

In his amended version, Charles makes it clear why his particular situation requires more time. He asks for (rather than dictates) an extension, and shows that he’s both concerned about his grade and happy to consider an alternative plan. The writing sounds polite, clear, and formal—a complete reversal from the previous chaotic and informal tone. Charles’s chances look good.

How to Ask a Professor for an Extension, Example 2

In the following example represents a less typical situation. Time is of the essence, but the situation itself cannot be called urgent.

Dear Professor Napier,

I’ve been hard at work on my research essay for your class, the English Romantic Novel. Initially, my plan involved comparing early Gothic novels, analyzing recurring motifs, and rooting them in British culture of the time. However, the more I’ve read, the more I’ve realized that my interest lies in the parodies of Gothic novels, particularly in the works of Wilde and Austen, and in the significance we might pull from the distortions they make.

I believe I could write a more compelling paper on this subject, but the deadline is fast approaching. I won’t have enough time to refocus the research and finish writing by Friday. Would you mind if I turned the paper in next Tuesday, October 3, instead? I understand that your late policy is strict. However, I think this new theme may inform my senior thesis, so I wonder if an exception can be made.

I’m happy to meet and discuss during your office hours tomorrow. Please let me know at your earliest convenience.

Tatiana Gorns

Here, Tatiana takes a risk. She knows her situation won’t seem urgent, but she appeals to her professor’s academic side. To do so, Tatiana must expand. The email is not concise, nor is it fluffy. Her investment in the assignment appears genuine. Furthermore, she explains the stakes, that this extension could positively affect her future course of study. This appeal will be hard for most professors to turn down.

How to ask for an extension – Additional Resources

If you’re looking for more advice on how to navigate the college work-life balance, how to better communicate, and other college know-how, you may find the following links to be of interest:

• Communicating with Professors: Ten Practical Suggestions
• What Does it Mean to Audit a Class in College?
• Best Gap Year Programs – 2023
• The College Transitions Dataverse
• College Success

Kaylen Baker

With a BA in Literary Studies from Middlebury College, an MFA in Fiction from Columbia University, and a Master’s in Translation from Université Paris 8 Vincennes-Saint-Denis, Kaylen has been working with students on their writing for over five years. Previously, Kaylen taught a fiction course for high school students as part of Columbia Artists/Teachers, and served as an English Language Assistant for the French National Department of Education. Kaylen is an experienced writer/translator whose work has been featured in Los Angeles Review, Hybrid, San Francisco Bay Guardian, France Today, and Honolulu Weekly, among others.

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How to Ask for a Deadline Extension in an Email: Tips and Examples

Asking for a deadline extension is common in both the work and academic worlds. Knowing how to ask properly can make a big difference.

This article provides tips on when and how to request more time, along with examples of what to say in an email. It’s designed to help you communicate your needs clearly and respectfully.

When to Ask for a Deadline Extension

Knowing the right time to ask for a deadline extension is crucial in maintaining professionalism and respect in your workplace or academic environment. Here are some scenarios where it might be appropriate to request more time:

• Unforeseen circumstances: If something unexpected comes up, like a personal emergency or illness, it’s reasonable to ask for an extension.
• Project scope has changed: If the project’s requirements have expanded since it was first assigned, this might justify a need for more time.
• You’re waiting on others: If your progress depends on input or work from others and they’ve been delayed, it’s fair to ask for an extension.
• Illness or family emergency: Personal health should always be a priority, as well as taking care of family matters that need immediate attention.
• Technical issues: Encountering unexpected technical problems that prevent you from working, such as a slow internet connection, insufficient storage on your computer, forgotten passwords, or printer issues, can be a valid reason for requesting an extension.
• Overwhelming workload: If you’ve been juggling multiple responsibilities and deadlines, and it’s impacting your ability to complete your current task on time, consider asking for more time.

How to Ask for an Extension at Work

Requesting a deadline extension at work requires a thoughtful approach to ensure the request is received positively.

1. Determine Deadline Importance

First, assess how critical the deadline is to your team and project. Understand the ripple effect that an extension might have on others and weigh the necessity of your request.

2. Decide How to Ask

Think about whether a verbal conversation or an email is more suitable for your workplace culture and the urgency of your request. Sometimes, a direct conversation followed by an email for record-keeping is best.

3. Provide a Specific Reason

Be honest about why you need more time. Provide clear and genuine reasons for your request, as this helps build trust and understanding.

4. Show Your Dedication

Demonstrate your commitment to the task by outlining what you have accomplished so far and how you plan to tackle the remaining work. This shows you are not taking the extension lightly.

5. Offer to Share Your Progress

Offering to share what you’ve done so far can reassure your manager that granting an extension is a worthwhile decision. It also opens up a chance for feedback.

6. Set a Reasonable New Deadline

Propose a new, realistic deadline when asking for an extension. Make sure it’s practical and gives you enough time to complete the work without compromising quality.

7. Show Gratitude

Express your thanks for their understanding and flexibility regarding your situation. Acknowledging that you don’t take their accommodation for granted can go a long way.

Deadline Extension Request Examples

Here are some concise examples of how you could structure a deadline extension request email.

This example showcases a request for a deadline extension due to unforeseen personal circumstances.

This example illustrates asking for a deadline extension due to unexpected work complications.

This example demonstrates how to request more time due to a heavy workload.

Final Thoughts

Asking for a deadline extension doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, you can make your request in a way that shows professionalism and respect for the other person’s time. The examples provided should give you a solid starting point for crafting your own emails.

Slava Velikiy, CEO of Rontar and GainRep, has over 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship, project management, and software development. Passionate about innovation and solving real-world problems, he shares his insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and technology.

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13 No-Fail Ways to Get an Extension on a Paper

Procrastinators, rejoice.

Image via Complex Original

There are a myriad of reasons why you may not be finish your paper on time: sickness, family emergency, a broken heart, a sudden car wreck. While your professor may not find it as a legitimate excuse, there are some possible ways to steer your professor's decision in your favor, giving you some extra time to nail that mid-term paper.

It can be a scary and intimidating to ask for an extension on your paper. From finding plausible excuses to being the teacher's pet, here are 13 no-fail ways to get an extension on a paper.

13. Be upfront about it.

This is the only option when you really can't offer a valid excuse. In some instances it may be better to be upfront about your mistake and take responsibility. If so, try and finish your essay, and turn it in the day after the paper was due. When you turn it in, make sure you take responsibility for your actions and apologize for the inconvenience. If your professor hasn't graded the essays yet, your professor may be willing to let this one slide. But, if your teacher doesn't give you credit, it's important to ask for feedback on the essay anyway.

12. Be emotional about it.

This one is likely a hit or miss, but in some cases, it does work. Seeing a student cry is uncomfortable for any teacher, which is why we all have a friend that can attest to the effectiveness of this technique. So, if you come in teary-eyed and make up some sob story as to how your mid-term essay completely went off your radar during the last few weeks, your professor may give you a chance. Let him/her know that making up this grade is of the upmost importance to you. You may want to offer a solution of starting off with a B rather than an A. It's not perfect, but it's better than failing.

11. Don't ask for a long extension.

This should be common sense. If you're asking for an extension, don't ask for anything longer than three days. If you do, you're professor will likely think that you procrastinated the whole semester. To prove that you haven't, it may be to your advantage to send in a rough draft to prove that you have at least been working on it.

10. Be specific in your reasoning.

When informing your professor of a situation, it's very important to be specific. If your reasons are "stress" or "an emergency," chances are your professor won't give you the extension. Asking for an extension is already an inconvenience, and if you're not specific you will likely not get a response, just a failing grade. However, if you fully explain the situation and its specifics, you will increase your chances on that extension. The truth will set you free from that looming deadline.

9. Reach to your professor's heart.

If you want to incite your teacher's sympathy and your excuse is less-than tear-inducing, it might be appropriate to tell a creative rendition of the truth. Been spending way too much time on Facebook? Let's say you have had technical problems and your WiFi gave out. Did you just break up with your significant other and haven't had the time to write anything? Let's say it was a family emergency. It may not work, but your chances often depend on how well you can explain the situation.

8. Ask in person whenever possible.

Going to your professor in person is the most professional way to ask for a paper extension. It may actually be to your advantage if you come off with the perfect combination of placating and modesty if you approach your professor in person. However, if you're lying about the situation, it's probably best if you send an email, lest she see right through your B.S.

7. Offer a solution, not an excuse.

The only time to offer a solution is when you know you screwed up, but still don't necessarily feel like it's your fault. For example, someone stole your USB that had your paper, or your computer crashed and your paper was erased. These situations suck, but if you take responsibility and offer a solution rather than excuse, chances are your professor will work with you. For example, if someone stole your USB and you only have the rough draft, aplogize for the inconvenience and that you will submit an earlier draft of the paper. I did this once, and my professor gave me an extra six hours to formulate the final draft to the best of my ability.

6. Something unexpected happened.

There are just some situations that are out of your control: a funeral, car wreck, or jury duty, for example. These are the sorts of events that come up unexpectedly that would make it excruciatingly difficult to turn in a paper right before it's due. It's absolutely important that you inform your professor as soon as you can. However, your professor will likely ask for proof, so don't attempt to use these situations as a last minute excuse.

5. Make a good impression.

The actual first step to getting an extension on your paper starts on the first day of class. It's important that you show your professor that you're a good student who's attentive and involved. Participate in discussions and go to office hours. Bottom line: professors are always more inclined to give extensions to students they like.

4. Plan ahead.

Planning ahead is probably the most important thing to remember in asking for a paper extension. In most pressing situations, like in the case of having a full-time job or game days (football players would know this), that professors will grant you a paper extension if you ask ahead. If you ask for a paper extension 12 hours before it's due, chances are your professor will think you just procrastinated and came up with an illegitimate excuse. Don't be that person.

3. You are preparing for a standardized test.

This is applicable for nearly every junior or senior in college. If you have post-college plans including law school or medical school that means you have to take some form of standardized test. Any test like the LSAT, MCAT, or GRE requires a lot of preparation. If you know that your taking any standardized test around a paper due date, politely explain the situation to your professor. In situations like these, they often understand that standardized tests require a lot of mental and physical preparation. However, since standardized test dates are often posted nearly a whole three months before, notify your professor as soon as possible.

2. You have other papers due at the same time.

Every college student knows that papers are the worst to write: they're time consuming, and they're all due at around the same time. It's very common to have close to four papers all due within a two-day time span. If you have any other commitments (like sports or a job) and other papers due on the same date, that is the perfect reason to ask for a paper extension. Inform your professor of your prior engagements—preferably with proof—and do this as soon as you can. Since most professors give a syllabus early in the semester, if you have two projects due on the same day for different classes, ask if you could possibly turn it in a day or a couple of hours later.

1. You have a full-time job.

A full-time job is a big commitment. Not only that, but your big mid-term papers are usually due at a time when your job may need you to work a couple more hours. If you realize you're going to have to clock in from nine to five the whole weekend a paper is due, politely ask your professor for an extension. Say something along the lines that your full-time work schedule won't permit you the time to work on a paper that showcases the best of your ability. Professors understand that some students are working their way through college, and will likely offer you a solution.

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The Writing Place

Resources – asking for an extension.

While good planning and time management can help you get most papers done on time, there will be times when meeting the deadline becomes impossible, either because the paper still needs major revisions, or because life intervenes.

When this happens, it is important to know how to ask for an extension in the most effective way–especially for end-of-term papers that represent a large percentage of the final grade. Handled correctly, negotiating an extension of the final deadline can both give you the extra time you need to complete the assignment, and reinforce your image as a motivated, capable, and responsible writer.

Extensions can also reinforce some important principles of good writing: assessing your progress in between drafts, allocating time for revision, and incorporating readers’ responses into the process.

Seven Key Suggestions:

• Before you ask for the extension, understand why you need it. What do you need to do to complete the assignment, and how much time will it take?
• Ask for the extension as soon as possible; this makes it planning ahead rather than just making excuses. Last-minute requests give the instructor no room for negotiation, and the answer is more likely to be either a flat no or a grudging yes.
• Be prepared to give an accurate and concise summary of what you’ve done so far, and what still needs to be done. (If they don’t ask, you don’t have to tell, but a straightforward account sounds much better than “Um, er, well…”)
• Don’t underestimate the time you need: if you need a week, or a weekend, to make the necessary additions and changes, promising to get it done by the next day is counterproductive.
• On the other hand, work within what’s reasonable: if the instructor has already set a “late” due date, an extra 6, 12, or 24 hours may be all you can negotiate for. (It makes sense to think ahead when you get the assignment: what will you do if you need an extension?)
• Speak to the instructor in person, if possible. (However, phone calls are okay as long as they’re not last-minute phone calls…and be sure you know the instructor’s policy on calling him or her at home!)
• DON’T BEG. Instead of asking the instructor for a “favor,” make your request for an extension an  alternative solution  to a problem you  both  share: how to deliver the best possible paper to the instructor in a timely fashion, so that he or she can assess your progress as fully and fairly as possible. You needed time to write the paper; they’ll need time to read it. So be prepared to give a little.

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Need to Ask for an Extension on an Assignment? Try This

Maybe a project is taking much longer than you expected, you have due dates for several classes around the same time, or other aspects of your life have taken your attention away from your studies. Whatever the case, realizing that you’ll be unable to turn in a paper on time can be stressful.

As with any other problem you face at university, the best thing to do is talk to the people who can help you. In this case, it means reaching out to your professor and asking for an extension. Although you may feel intimidated at the prospect, this is far better than the alternatives: handing in an unfinished assignment or submitting a paper later and potentially receiving a failing grade. Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in this situation.

1. Ask in Advance

Requesting an extension the night before your paper is due will show you lack forward thinking. It may look like you forgot about the assignment until now — which is not a good reason for needing an extension. Whatever reasons you do give will appear disingenuous. Most professors refuse to grant extensions unless the student gives them at least a few days’ notice.

2. Send Your Professor an Email

The best way to approach the topic of an extension is through an email. Keep the email short, polite, and reasonably formal. As well as explaining the situation, it’s a good idea to propose a new deadline that’s just a couple days after the current due date. You could also offer to meet with your professor during office hours to discuss the assignment further.

3. Say Why You Need the Extension

Explain why you’re requesting an extension without providing too much extra detail. The reason could be that you’re struggling to understand the instructions and need extra guidance before you can finish, you’re having trouble acquiring certain resources, or you simply found that there was not enough time to complete the assignment — such as if you need to gather data or perform a great deal of research. If any of these are your reason for needing an extension, there’s a high chance other students are facing the same issues, meaning your professor may end up extending the deadline for everyone.

4. Show That You Are Making Progress

To support your claim that you just need a few extra days to finish your assignment, it’s a good idea to show your professor what you have done so far. This can demonstrate that, with a little extra time, you would produce a great piece of work and receive a much higher grade.

5. Keep Up with Other Homework for the Class

Your professor is more likely to be lenient if you have a good record in class. Whereas you can’t change the past, you can make sure to do well on any tests and hand in any other homework (including when it’s optional) between now and the due date.

One of the best ways to avoid the need for extensions is to improve your study habits. This is easier to achieve when you’re able to study at home without constant distractions. You can receive your own room in a fully-furnished suite at 17Hundred. Our Ontario Tech University off-campus housing is located just a short walk from OTU and has dedicated study spaces on site. Contact us to join the waitlist for a unit.

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How to ask for an extension

Open University students usually have lives with many responsibilities, and we recognise that in creating a more flexible assessment system. Our assignments are graduated rather than coming in one lump at the end of a term/year. You can also usually negotiate an extension on assignment deadlines if you experience difficulties which impact on your studies. 

NB - there is NOT usually any extension offered on the final piece of work on a module, often called the End of Module Assessment . Plan your studies to make sure you can work on this in a timely fashion. If you are experiencing difficulties as you come to the end of a module, make sure that you contact your Student Support Team for advice, and put in a claim for Mitigating Circumstances. 

Your tutor will be able to talk to you about extensions on your Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs). We are of course keen to make sure you don't fall behind in your studies, so you should not assume you can just have one for the asking. 

You can contact your tutor via a link on StudentHome, or just drop them an email. Explain why you want the extension and how long you think you may need. Be realistic and reasonable about this. A day or two is very acceptable, a week is fine. If you are going to need more than a week, you will need to have a serious and good reason. (Anxiety about deadlines is a serious and good reason, however you should also make sure you have got good support so this doesn't become an ongoing problem if you suffer anxiety - your Student Support Team can help with this.) 

You won't need supporting documentation for an extension on a TMA, but you will if you apply for Mitigating Circumstances for an EMA. 

Try to let us tutors know in good time. You can ask for an extension just in case, you don't have to use it. 

These are the suggested reasons given when we enter your extension in the system. 

DISABILITY - your additional learning need means that you require a little longer to prepare your assignment (anxiety would fit here). 

FAMILY RELATED - your children had chicken pox, there was a major family event which disrupted your studies, the family guinea pig had to be rushed to the vet and nursed through the night. 

MEDICAL - you had chicken pox, or flu. 

TRAVEL RELATED - your family holiday coincided with the TMA submission date. (And you are going to have to shop, pack and make your partner sort out their passport so you can't plan to do the TMA early.) 

VARIOUS - your favourite aunt had to go into hospital, the children all had chicken pox, you had a job interview, your laptop died on you and it is coming up to Christmas, you have to do the shopping - all at once. And the family guinea pig needs to be taken to the vet. 

New comment

What a reassuring message.

Returning to study as an adult can be quite scary, we know - we do our best to support you to achieve at the OU. 

Penalty for extension?

Joe - call Student Support

Joe I'm so sorry to hear about your difficulties. We know our students have a lot of responsibilities in your lives. Student Support are there to advise you on how you can navigate your studies while juggling all of these. At the OU we have what we call the 'revolving door', where you may end up deferring but you can always come back to us. We have to manage this carefully to make sure you don't end up incurring costs because of the rules for the funding bodies, however we will do what we can to get you through. 

I do hope things settle down for you. Call Student Support as soon as you are able, they will be able to advise and support you. 

This is Not True!

I have autism and my grandma died which meant my entire family needed to go to Germany for a week to attend a funeral. My instructor Dr. Stobbart, refused to give an extension stating that if he did this for me then he would have to do this for everyone and it would be 'chaos'. He then said 2 other students had losses that month. In other words they were getting on okay so I should to. 

This isn't right.  

extension needed (but OU closed for hols)

I needed to extend an extension by another week. I had illness, then a home move (and all that entails) in the lead up to Christmas. I sent my tutor an email for an extension, without realising the OU would actually be shut!  So my tutor didn't see the email, and still hasn't. I did submit the assignment, but for all the effort made, it was incomplete! What might happen next? Might the tutor still say I could send another copy and it would be accepted? 

Thanks in advance,

Deferrals or extensions to ema

No extension for ema.

Hullo Leighton

I am sorry but there is no way to get an extension for an EMA. In very difficult circumstances, you can get what's called a Discretionary Postponement. You will need to talk to Student Support Team about this - as it will only be allowed in very exceptional circumstances. Their number is available on your StudentHome page. 

You can also put in a Special Circumstances form up to 4 days after submitting the EMA. 

You can put in something for the EMA, and a Special Circs form, and that way you may get to pass the module at least. On many modules, if you have put something in, you will be allowed to rewrite and resubmit it (with a tutor's help), if it doesn't pass. 

Good luck - and remember, Student Support Team have all these answers, they are there at the end of a phone.  

Contact tutor form not working

The contact form for my tutor is not currently working to request an extension.

ON YOUR 1ST ORDER

How To Ask For An Extension On An Assignment

By Laura Brown on 13th August 2022

At least once in college life, every student has to suffer from late submission for the assignment. In such circumstances, students are unaware of how to ask for an extension on an assignment, and they end up deducting their marks. At that particular instant, you look for a cheap assignment and sometimes get it done successfully but fail to do so very often.

For this reason, Crowd Writer UK has come up with a complete guide that will help you while asking your tutor to extend your assignment deadline.

1. Ask As Early As Possible

When you have an assignment due, you know already if you can submit it on time or not. You are well aware of your upcoming schedule until or unless you encounter an emergency situation. So, if you know, you will not be able to make it to the deadline, go to your supervisor, tell them the situation, and ask for an extension as early as you can.

2. Meet The Tutor In-Person (If Possible)

While answering the question of how to ask for extension on assignment, experts often recommend meeting the tutor in person. However, we can understand that sometimes, it is not possible for students to approach the tutor. You can then email your tutor as a second option.

3. Go In The Office Hours

The main reason that you are unable to meet the tutor is looking for them other than the office hours. If you can have the schedule of the specific tutor from the management or online portal, then you can easily calculate some time when you can meet the tutor.

4. Show Your Care For The Grade

For instance, if you are doing an abstract, then you will definitely want to know how long should an abstract be . Similarly, asking for an extension requires that you should reflect intensive care towards your grades. Although your tutor knows it, still tell them how it could affect your grades if your tutor does not extend the submission.

5. Explain The Solution

At Crowd Writer, we value our employees’ problems. Similarly, if you are able to elaborate on your situation to the tutor, then there is a good chance that they will provide you with what you want.

6. Suggest A Timeframe

In order to follow complete steps on how to ask for an extension on an assignment, the next point should be to suggest the next deadline yourself. However, make sure that it should be a practical deadline. Do not ask for an extension for more than 2 to 3 days.

7. Come Up With Some Evidence

It is very necessary that your excuse of being late in submission or for an extension should be backed by some strong evidence. You should have a proper reason for the extension. Just because you were busy, your tutor would not accept your offer. Tell them where you were stuck and provide some evidence for it.

8. Update Your Progress

The most important thing about how to ask for an extension on an assignment is to tell your tutor, how much assignment you have done already or if you have conducted the research, tell them about it.

9. Send A Well Crafted Professional Email

If you are unable to meet your tutor in persona, you should send them the email immediately. Do not waste a lot of time looking for your tutor on campus. Send them a well-crafted email that looks professional and carries all the essential information as discussed above.

10. Concern With Student Council

So you are up to the question, of how to ask for extension on an assignment, then you should take help from your seniors or student council. If they have good terms with the tutor, then it would be really easy for you to get the extension.

11. Do Not Ask Again & Again

Well, if your tutor has not responded to your email or declined your offer, you should not bother them by asking again and again for the tutor. It can make your situation even worse.

12. Be Honest With Your Context

Honesty is really the best policy. Your tutor knows you very well. Be honest with your tutor. Somehow, if you are late due to your own mistake, tell to your tutor, have an apology. If you are suffering from student mental health issues, tell them exactly what you are going through.

Summarizing On How To Ask For An Extension On An Assignment

Asking your tutor for an extension on any particular assignment is not that easy. You may face several challenges while looking for an extension. You might not be able to meet your tutor or contact them. The best solution is to email them and tell them about the situation. Well, if you can follow the above-mentioned steps, getting an extension will be really a smooth process for you.

Laura Brown, a senior content writer who writes actionable blogs at Crowd Writer.

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Don’t be afraid to ask for extensions

Just some advice to anyone else with time management issues, poor mental health, or anything else that may cause you to wind up scrambling at the last minute to turn in your assignments.

I get it, you procrastinated and/or convinced yourself you’d have enough time and now you’re suddenly panic-writing an essay as if your life depended on it. Most of us don’t like telling our profs that we’ve messed up, because it can be embarrassing to admit. If you’re anything like me, you avoid communicating with profs at all about your shortcomings because that conversation is super intimidating.

But ultimately profs aren’t super concerned about their students being perfect - they’re here to teach and help us get degrees, and from my experience they prefer when a student reaches out for help rather than them failing.

Profs are being especially generous now during the pandemic, but I realized even before that profs tend to be much more laid back about extensions than most of us students realize. I’ve asked for extensions plenty of times in university, and I’ve never once had a prof deny one. If you bother to ask politely, it seems that most profs don’t mind giving an extra day to complete something. It’s a lot better than turning in something late, and dealing with a late penalty - giving a heads up that you won’t finish something on time is rewarded more than getting it in late with no prior communication.

Even if your profs aren’t the types to grant extensions, it really doesn’t hurt to ask. One time I was almost in tears trying to finish a 20 page research paper worth most of my grade. I sent an email asking for an extra day to finish (citing my mental health at the time, which was bad), and my prof gave me a whole week and wished me well. I ended up getting an A, and was able to go to sleep early that night and focus on taking care of myself.

Tip: if you’re asking for an extension, suggest a reasonable timeline. Let them know you’ve made progress, something got in the way, and you will be able to get it in within the next day. Don’t ask for an extra week to finish something - that’s ridiculous, unfair to other students and could put your prof behind on their grading. Usually I just ask if I can submit something the next morning (if it’s due at midnight). Generally they give me more time than I ask for anyways, but you never want to come across entitled or unreasonable asking for a little grace.

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