Per Assignment Extensions

This accommodation supports students with chronic conditions who experience unpredictable, brief increases in disability-related symptoms. To protect student privacy and preserve academic standards, the framework below outlines how to evaluate and manage these extension requests.

Key Guidelines and Framework

  • Privacy Boundary: Because this accommodation is listed on the student’s official Accommodation Letter, appropriate disability documentation has already been submitted to OAA. Instructors may not ask students for medical proof, diagnoses, or detailed medical explanations.
  • Not a Blanket Waiver: This accommodation applies to individual assignments on a case-by-case basis as needed. It is not an automatic or blanket extension for all coursework. If repeated extensions begin to impact course requirements or progress and you have concerns, please contact OAA to consult with the Accommodation Coordinator.
  • Reasonable Extension Window: When a disability-related extension is requested, a reasonable extension typically ranges from 24 to 72 hours (1 to 3 days), depending on the nature and context of the assignment.
  • Scope & Exceptions: This accommodation does not apply to exams/quizzes generally (take-home exams may be an exception) or to non-disability events.
  • Non-Retroactive & Late Penalties: Accommodations take effect once established with the Accommodation Letter and are not retroactive. Standard course late penalties may still apply if a student misses an agreed-upon extension deadline or submits late for non-disability-related reasons.

Process and Next Steps for Requests

  1. Student Initiation: The student is responsible for notifying you in a timely manner (prior to the deadline or, when that is not possible, within 24 hours of the missed deadline) and copying OAA on the email.
  2. Faculty Response: In general, instructors should reply to students and OAA within 24 business hours to confirm the new due date. Note that while we ask that you copy our office or the AC directly, you do not need to wait for OAA confirmation before approving the extension.

Determining Fundamental Alterations and Consulting OAA

When evaluating an extension, consider the estimated active work time required for the assignment relative to the deadline and whether extending the deadline is feasible. If you believe granting an extension significantly compromises learning objectives (such as with group work, time-sensitive discussion posts, or assignments where answer keys are immediately released) do not simply deny the request. Consult with the Accommodation Coordinator before making a final decision so that we can evaluate the course structure together and determine a reasonable path forward.