Attendance Exception Request

Absence

Not being present at a scheduled event. Includes both current and anticipated absences.
Course Directors may regard late arrivals as being absent from an event.

Attendance Exception

A formal request to be excused from a mandatory event due to a qualifying circumstance. Exceptions are considered based on the nature of the request, timing of submission, and required documentation. Approval is not guaranteed and is subject to review by the appropriate course or program leadership.

Bereavement

Absence due to the loss of a relative, friend, or loved one. Documentation may be required depending on the duration of the absence (e.g., travel details).

Extracurricular Event

Participation in scholarly activities such as research, conference presentations, or required meetings. Student organization-related exceptions must be confirmed with Student Engagement and Leadership (SEL). Attendance exceptions are only considered for conferences where the student is presenting; only travel and presentation days are approved.
Requests must be submitted at least 28 days in advance or will be automatically denied. Documentation is required.

Illness

Acute symptoms or health conditions that prevent attendance at COM events. Only current illnesses are considered. Students should reassess symptoms daily and may submit additional attendance exception requests as needed; see section on “prescheduled event” for planned healthcare appointments.
Documentation may be required for extended illnesses.

Mandatory Event

Events where attendance is required, including exams (written or lab), quizzes [red on Medtrics], in-person live events [blue], and online live events [yellow]. Some lectures, such as those in OST 532, are not recorded. While flexible live [green] events may be attended asynchronously, recordings are only available with approved exceptions.
Attendance exceptions for exams/quizzes with extended availability are typically denied. Course Directors may adjust due dates at their discretion.

Personal / Family Matter

Urgent and unexpected personal or family situations. Only current matters are considered; see section on “prescheduled event” for anticipated future events. Documentation may be required depending on the duration of the absence.

Pre-Scheduled Event

Known personal or family obligations (e.g., weddings, reunions, non-routine appointments) that conflict with mandatory events.
Requests must be submitted at least 28 days in advance or will be automatically denied. Documentation is required.

Recent Scheduled Appointment

Necessary personal appointments that could not be scheduled 28 or more days in advance.
Documentation is required and is subject to review by the appropriate course or program leadership.

Religious Observance

Participation in events related to religious faith or practice.
Documentation may be required depending on the duration of the absence (e.g., travel details).

Tardy / Late

Present at the event but not checked in or registered at the designated start time.

Transportation Issue

Attendance exception due to vehicle trouble or accidents.
Documentation is required.