reasons for assignment extension

The Study Blog :

How to ask for an extension for your assignment [examples + template].

By Evans Jun 15 2021

Time management is one thing you should get better at within your academic life, particularly when it comes to assignments. However, regardless of how much you plan your time or stay organized, things might get out of hand. Read the article below to find why and how to ask for an extension. It also provides examples of how to ask for an assignment extension for your reference.

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What is an Extension Deadline?

An extension deadline for your assignment is the additional time you should request from your supervisor or tutor to finish your task. Most projects have a specific due date, and you should complete them on time. However, there are times when you can fall behind for numerous reasons and can't stay on schedule. At this point, you should reach your instructor and request an extension.

You should request an extension immediately you realize you won't be in a position to meet your original deadline. The deadline might affect other parts of your project, like other team members' abilities to complete the work and the project's completion date. Requesting an extension can offer the supervisor more time to readjust your assignment's workflow and schedule. Some of the situations in which you might request a deadline extension include:

· The assignment needs more research or work than expected

· Your project's timeline did not put all factors into consideration

· You're waiting for essential materials to complete your project

· You had prioritized the completion of another task

· You were unable to access the required equipment

· You had an emergency that stopped you from finishing your assignment

How to Ask for Your Extension

To ask for your extension effectively, kindly do the following:

Determine Whether You Can Get the Extension

Whether it is possible to get an extension depends on your work's scope. While some projects have rigid schedules, it will not matter if you submit a couple of days later when it comes to other projects. Please make sure you understand the flexibility in the deadline and develop a plan for completing your work.

Ask for the Extension

Once you realize you will be behind the deadline, notify your lecturer immediately. Choose the most convenient contact method. You can call them, ask in person, or send an email. Some instructors are too busy to check their mail from time to time, making a text message or phone call a more effective method.

When contacting your instructor, show them that you care about your grades. You can start with a statement about your goal and then why you require the extension.

Determine How Long Your Extension Will Be

Your extension should give adequate time to complete your paper based on how long you have taken to work on it.

Consider your facilitator's personality when determining the duration of the extension to request. If the instructor is strict, leave it to them to decide the time to grant. If you can negotiate with them, you can ask them for a three-day extension and expect the professor to negotiate down. And if the professor is lenient, ask for a specific extension.

Provide Evidence

If you offer proof, your professor will be impressed with your preparedness and is more likely to grant you the extension. Some of the evidence lecturers accept include:

· A doctor's letter

· A letter from an employer

· An email from a child's teacher

· A receipt from your car or computer repair shop

· Newspaper clippings

Adhere to Your New Deadline and Ensure It Does Not Happen Again

Analyze your work schedule, avoid procrastination and manage your time better in the future. If possible, scale back on some assignments.

Thank Your Tutor

Express your gratitude for the extension granted and apologize for the inconvenience caused.

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Email Template for Requesting More Time to Complete Your Assignment

Feel free to adapt or use this email template to ask for an extension for your assignment

Dear (Title of your Professor, Dr. Mr. Ms., followed by their last name), My name is (name), and I'm a student in your (name) class. I'm writing you to ask if it might be possible to be granted additional time for the (name of assignment) due on (date). Regrettably, I'm behind with this assignment because (reason). I hope to complete this assignment by (date). I look forward to hearing from you about the same. Kind regards, (Your name and student ID number)

Here are more examples:

Dear Dr. Andrea,

I'm writing this email to request an extension on the deadline for the web application development assignment. I'm already done with coding, but the testing and debugging are taking more time than I expected. I have also discovered some errors that I'm working on.

I should submit the assignment on June 23, but I will appreciate it if you extend the due date to June 26.

Thank you for your consideration.

Warm regards,

Dear Professor John,

My name is Jackie, and I'm in your chemistry 101 class. Due to a family emergency, I will be traveling over the weekend without the research materials for the assignment due on Wednesday. Consequently, I would like to request an extension and submit my paper on Friday. In the attachment below is a draft that shows the progress I have made so far.

Many Thanks,

Dear Dr. Peterson,

My name is Jane Stephanie, and I'm in your literature class. My assignment is due on the same day as a presentation at my workplace. Do you provide extensions? If you do, I can submit the assignment on July 20 instead of July 16. I understand that late projects receive grade penalties, which I would like to avoid.

Many thanks,

Dear Professional Kellen,

My name is Ivy Johnson, and I'm in your 11 a.m. English class. From the syllabus, I can see that I should submit my assignment on August 13. Unfortunately, I have three other tasks due on that date for other classes.

Is it possible to get a three-day extension on the deadline and submit it on August 16 instead? If you do not grant extensions, can I get the assignment topic early to work on it in advance?

Warm Regards,

What to Do If You Do Not Get an Extension

Most lecturers understand that students are human beings with jobs and lives outside of class. And many instructors will approve any extension request. However, sometimes the professor might say no. Here is what to do should it happen.

If it is a few hours or days to your deadline, ensure you understand the late penalty and determine whether it is more practical to submit your assignment late or rush to meet your deadline. Ensure you deliver pure gold and don't plagiarize your work; it could result in poor grades.

If you had planned early, you have options. You can rearrange your schedule to make time to write your paper, ask your tutor for the paper topics before, or ask for an extension in another class. Alternatively, you can hire an expert writer from our urgent writing service to complete the assignment for you.

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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.

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

Review the syllabus or assignment to ensure you understand the professor’s extension policy.
Whether you’re facing a scheduling conflict or an emergency, explain your situation clearly.
If your extension request is denied, determine how you can still turn in your best work.

A few years ago, a student raised his hand with a question about the deadline for submitting final papers in my senior seminar class. “Now, is the paper due midnight East Coast time or midnight West Coast time?” he asked earnestly.

I responded that if he provided proof he was on the West Coast, I’d happily accept papers until midnight Pacific time — I wasn’t planning to stay up late to watch the essays roll in either way. That set off a full week of students photoshopping their faces onto images of California beaches and Disneyland. In the end, every student submitted their paper on time.

Most of the time, students ask for more than a three-hour extension. And most of the time, professors happily grant extensions on papers. But how should you ask your professor for an extension on a paper?

The Basics of Asking for an Extension

Before approaching your professor, read the syllabus or review the assignment. Most professors lay out their policies on extensions in either the instructions for the paper or the course syllabus, which functions as a contract between the instructor and the student.

Policies on extensions vary widely. Some professors refuse to offer extensions for any reason. In those cases, try to avoid missing the deadline or review the late penalty to see whether you’re willing to take the hit to your grade.

Policies on extensions vary widely. Some professors refuse to offer extensions for any reason.

Some professors offer extensions on a case-by-case basis, while some may require a doctor’s note or other proof that you can’t meet the original deadline.

Other instructors set deadlines for papers but do not apply late penalties. Still, don’t take that as an invitation to miss the deadline. Even in these cases, students should let their professors know if they need an extension.

In terms of how to ask for an extension, it’s generally best to make the request over email. That way you have a paper trail of your request and your professor’s response.

How to Raise Your Chances of Securing an Extension

Professors will more likely grant an extension if you approach them early on in the term, which requires planning ahead. For example, if you know at the beginning of the semester that you have three papers due the same day, consider approaching your professor to ask for an extension even though the paper isn’t due for several weeks.

If, on the other hand, an emergency comes up that requires an extension, reach out to your instructor as soon as possible. Explain the circumstances and be specific about what you need. Are you requesting a one-day extension? A week? Or an indefinite extension?

Understand that professors will more likely grant your request if you ask for a shorter extension.

Tips for Requesting an Extension

Be sure to show your professor that you aren’t asking for an extension simply because you ran out of time — even if that’s partly true. Demonstrate your commitment to the class by including a rough draft of your paper or a description of your topic in your extension request. You can also offer to come to office hours to discuss the extension in person.

Make sure to stay engaged in the class in other ways, too, such as by participating in discussions and meeting all other deadlines.

Sample Emails Asking for an Extension

Emailing a professor can feel intimidating, but using a template can make the process easier. In any email to an instructor , you should always include your name, your class or section number, and a clear question or request. You should also write professionally, and make sure to address your professor at the beginning of the email.

Students often ask for an extension because of deadlines in other classes, exams, work or career development events that overlap with the deadline, and last-minute emergencies. Whatever the reason, you don’t need a long explanation of your circumstances — just quickly mention the conflict and request an extension.

The sample emails below should give you a clearer idea on how to ask for an extension on a paper.

Sample Email for School-Related Extensions

Dear Professor Walker,

My name is Kellen Brown, and I’m in your 10 a.m. American politics class. In reading the syllabus, I notice the second paper is due on March 3. I have two other papers due that same day for other courses.

Would it be possible to request a one-week extension on the deadline and turn the paper in on March 10 instead? If you don’t grant extensions, could I receive the paper topics early so I can start working on it in advance?

Thank you, Kellen

Sample Email for Work-Related Extensions

Dear Professor Johnson,

My name is Stephanie Pritcher, and I’m enrolled in your 2 p.m. seminar on 19th-century British literature. Our first paper is due the same week as a major presentation at my work. Do you offer extensions on papers? I see in the syllabus that late papers receive a grade penalty, which I’d like to avoid. If you offer extensions, I could turn in the paper on Tuesday, April 20, instead of Friday, April 16.

Thank you, Stephanie

Sample Email for Emergencies

Dear Professor Prakash,

My name is Sandra Lassiter, and I’m in your 11:30 a.m. history 201 class. Because of a family emergency, I will be out of town this weekend without my research materials for the paper due on Monday. Would it be possible to request a three-day extension and turn in my essay in class on Thursday? I’m attaching my outline and rough draft to show the progress I’ve made on the paper so far.

Thank you, Sandra

What If You Don’t Get the Extension?

Most professors understand that students are human, with lives and jobs outside of class. And most professors will gladly approve an extension. But sometimes professors say no. So what if you don’t get the extension?

If it’s just days (or even hours) until the deadline, research the late penalty and decide whether it’s better to turn in the paper late or rush to meet the deadline. Always turn in your best work possible and avoid the temptation to plagiarize, which will only cause more problems down the road.

If you’ve planned ahead, you have several options. You can rearrange your schedule to make time to write the paper, ask the professor for the paper topics in advance, or ask for extensions in your other classes instead.

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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

How to Ask for an Extension on an Assignment: Understanding and Crafting Your Request

In the realm of academia, there comes a time when unforeseen circumstances may impede meeting assignment deadlines. How to ask for an extension on an assignment is a skill that can be invaluable during such times. This blog post delves into effective strategies for requesting extensions, providing practical tips and insights to navigate this process with confidence and professionalism.

Key Takeaways

Understand the assignment extension policies of your institution and the specific requirements for requesting an extension.
Prepare for requesting an extension by assessing your situation, organizing necessary documentation, and planning a reasonable timeline for completion.
Craft a polite and professional extension request that clearly explains your reasons for needing an extension and proposes a new deadline.
Communicate with your professor respectfully and promptly, providing any additional information or documentation if required.
Consider best practices such as honesty, accountability, and proactive communication when seeking extensions to build a positive rapport with your professors.
In case of emergencies, communicate the situation to your professor as soon as possible and provide any relevant documentation to support your request.
If your extension request is denied, consider alternative solutions and seek support from academic advisors or support services.
After receiving a response, adhere to the agreed-upon terms, express gratitude, and ensure timely submission of the revised assignment .

How to Ask for an Extension on an Assignment

Basics of requesting.

When asking for an extension on an assignment, it’s crucial to fully understand the requirements. Make sure you know exactly what homework is expected from you and the deadline for submission. Familiarize yourself with your institution’s extension policy, including any specific procedures or documentation needed.

Reasons for Extensions

There are various valid reasons to request an extension. These include unexpected personal emergencies, such as illness or family crises, overlapping deadlines that make it challenging to complete all tasks on time, and unforeseen technical issues like computer malfunctions or internet outages.

Knowing When to Ask

It’s essential to avoid making last-minute requests for extensions. Instead, assess the complexity of the assignment and your current workload ahead of time. If a task is particularly intricate or if you have multiple assignments due around the same time, consider requesting an extension early on.

Risks of Asking

Asking for extensions too frequently can potentially impact your reputation among professors and colleagues. It may also affect future opportunities if you develop a pattern of relying heavily on extensions. Constantly seeking extensions could strain your relationships with professors or peers.

Preparing to Request an Extension

Effective communication.

When asking for an extension on an assignment, it’s crucial to use clear and concise language . Be direct about your request without providing unnecessary details. Maintain a professional tone and demeanor throughout your communication. Address the recipient respectfully and avoid using informal language or abbreviations.

Ensure that your approach is polite and respectful . Express gratitude for considering your request and recognize the additional effort required to accommodate your extension. For example, you can start by saying “I hope this message finds you well” or “Thank you for taking the time to consider my situation.”

Providing Solutions

Offering solutions demonstrates responsibility when requesting an extension. Provide a detailed plan for completion of the assignment within the extended timeframe. Suggest alternative submission dates that align with both yours and the instructor’s schedules.

Moreover, propose a revised timeline for deliverables if it’s part of a larger project or task. This shows that you have carefully considered how the extension will impact other deadlines and are prepared to manage them effectively.

Acknowledging the Favor

Expressing gratitude is essential when asking for an extension on an assignment. Thank the recipient for considering your request, regardless of whether they grant it or not. Recognize their understanding of your circumstances by showing appreciation for their willingness to help.

It’s important to acknowledge that receiving an extension is not guaranteed but expressing gratitude can leave a positive impression even if your request cannot be accommodated.

Crafting Your Extension Request

When asking for an extension on an assignment, it’s crucial to craft your request thoughtfully. Start by using a formal business letter format . This includes including a subject line that clearly indicates the purpose of your letter and addressing the recipient respectfully.

Provide specific reasons for needing the extension. Whether it’s unexpected personal circumstances or additional time needed for thorough research, be transparent about why you require more time. If applicable, present evidence or documentation to support your request. Furthermore, explain how the extension will contribute to improving the quality of your work.

Next, it’s important to propose a new deadline that aligns with both your needs and respects any prior commitments. Clearly state the proposed new deadline , ensuring that it allows ample time for completion without compromising on quality. Make sure this new timeline fits into your schedule and doesn’t clash with other deadlines or responsibilities.

Communicating with Your Professor

When asking for an extension on an assignment, it’s crucial to communicate effectively with your professor. If possible, respect their office hours and schedule a meeting to discuss your situation in person. Adhere to any specified communication channels set by the faculty or supervisor.

Using email etiquette is vital when requesting an extension. Make sure to use a professional email address and proofread your message for clarity and correctness. Avoid using informal language or abbreviations that might diminish the professionalism of your request.

Maintain integrity in all communications related to your assignment. Be transparent about the challenges you are facing, and communicate openly about any limitations hindering you from completing the task on time. Honesty is key when engaging in dialogue with your professor regarding an extension request.

Best Practices for Seeking Extensions

Timing your request.

Submitting your request for an extension well before the original deadline is crucial. This shows responsibility and respect for the professor’s time. Consider any relevant departmental timelines that might affect the approval of your extension. For instance, if there is a standard processing period, ensure you account for this in your timing.

Avoid requesting extensions during peak periods or high-stress times for both you and your professor. Doing so may increase the likelihood of a positive response to your request because it demonstrates consideration for everyone involved.

Professional Tone

When asking for an extension on an assignment, maintain a respectful and courteous tone in all communications with your professor . Use formal language and structure to convey professionalism effectively. Remember that maintaining a professional demeanor can positively influence how your request is received.

Emphasize professionalism throughout all interactions regarding the extension request, including emails or in-person conversations with your professor .

Being Proactive

Demonstrate proactive steps taken to mitigate issues that have led to seeking an extension on the assignment. Show initiative by actively seeking solutions rather than just highlighting problems without attempting to resolve them first.

Highlight efforts made to manage time effectively and efficiently while demonstrating genuine concern about producing quality work within reasonable deadlines.

Dealing with Emergencies

Immediate communication.

When asking for an extension on an assignment , it’s crucial to respond promptly to any inquiries from your instructor. Stay accessible for further discussion and keep the lines of communication open. This demonstrates your commitment and responsibility in dealing with the situation.

If you are facing trouble or conflict, informing your instructor immediately can help them understand your situation better. By staying accessible, you show that you are willing to engage in a dialogue about the extension request. Keeping lines of communication open ensures that both parties can discuss potential solutions openly.

Documentation Support

Providing relevant supporting documents, such as medical certificates or official letters, if necessary is essential when seeking an extension due to emergencies. These documents offer tangible evidence to support your request and provide clarity about the nature of the emergency or conflict you are facing.

For instance, if you encountered a health issue that prevented you from completing the assignment on time, attaching a medical certificate can validate your claim and strengthen your request for an extension. Similarly, if there was a family emergency requiring immediate attention, providing official documentation can lend credibility to your circumstances.

Handling Denial of Extension Requests

It’s important to remember that the decision, whether positive or negative, should be respected. If your request for an extension is denied, acknowledge their decision with grace. It’s crucial to remain professional in all interactions and avoid displaying frustration or disappointment.

If you find yourself in this situation, consider offering alternative solutions. You can suggest compromises that could be acceptable to both parties and demonstrate flexibility by being open to negotiation. For example, if you were unable to complete a project due to time constraints, propose a detailed plan outlining how you intend to catch up on missed work without compromising the quality.

Furthermore, viewing the process as a learning opportunity is essential when facing denial of an extension request. Reflect on what led to the need for an extension and seek feedback on improving time management skills from teachers or mentors. Embracing this experience as a chance for growth can help prevent similar situations in the future.

After Receiving a Response

Expressing Gratitude

After receiving a response to your extension request, it’s important to show genuine appreciation for any consideration given. Thank them for taking the time to review your request and for their understanding of your situation. Regardless of whether the extension was granted or not, expressing gratitude reflects maturity and respect.

Meeting New Deadlines

If an extension is granted, commit wholeheartedly to meeting any new deadlines set by your faculty or supervisor. Ensure that you submit revised work in a timely manner, keeping your promises made during the extension request. This demonstrates reliability and professionalism, which are crucial qualities in academic or professional settings.

Maintaining Goodwill

It’s essential to uphold positive relationships with faculty members or supervisors after requesting an extension. Continue demonstrating professionalism through consistent performance in your academic or professional responsibilities. By doing so, you preserve goodwill and trust even if your initial request was denied.

Closing Thoughts

You’ve now gained valuable insights into the art of requesting an extension on your assignments. Remember, it’s crucial to approach the process with professionalism and respect. Craft your request thoughtfully, ensuring that you clearly communicate your reasons and provide any necessary documentation. Always be prepared for the possibility of a denial and have a backup plan in place. Lastly, after receiving a response, express gratitude regardless of the outcome. Your approach and attitude can make a significant difference in how your request is received.

Now that you’re equipped with these strategies, go ahead and tackle that assignment extension with confidence and poise. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i effectively prepare to request an extension.

To prepare for requesting an extension, ensure you have a valid reason and gather any necessary documentation. Plan your approach and consider alternative solutions in case your request is denied. Approach the situation with honesty and transparency.

What should I include when crafting my extension request?

Craft a clear and concise email or letter that includes your reason for needing an extension, specific details about the assignment, proposed new deadline, and any supporting documentation. Be respectful and professional in your tone.

How do I communicate with my professor about requesting an extension?

Initiate contact respectfully via email or during office hours if possible. Clearly explain why you need an extension, express gratitude for their consideration, and be open to discussing potential alternatives.

What are some best practices for seeking extensions on assignments?

Always adhere to the original deadlines unless absolutely necessary; provide ample notice when requesting an extension; maintain professionalism in all communications; and be prepared to discuss viable solutions if needed.

How should I handle it if my request for an extension is denied?

If your request is denied, remain calm and consider alternative options such as asking for partial credit or focusing on completing other aspects of the assignment well. It’s important to respect the decision while exploring other avenues.

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