Absence Verification Process
Overview
At some point during your college career, you will likely face anticipated or unanticipated absences from class. In almost all cases, you can simply explain the situation to your professor, and they will decide how you can make up missed assignments or tests. However, there can be extenuating circumstances that require the involvement of an absence verification officer, who can verify your reasons for missing classes and facilitate a plan between you and your professor for how to catch up.
Class Attendance Regulation
In accordance with Attendance Regulations outlined in REG 02.20.03, instructors at NC State are responsible for outlining attendance expectations in their syllabi and course materials. In the event that a student must miss class, students are expected to communicate with their instructor. The Absence Verification Process at NC State is designed to support instructors and students in the event of specific circumstances that warrant a student’s absence.
The Class Attendance regulation provides some parameters and guidance for instructors and students to consider in determining whether a class absence is excused.
Other than in a couple of exceptional situations, essentially the judgment of whether a life event warrants missing a class is in the hands of the instructor. The instructor’s attendance/absence policy as stated in the course syllabus can help determine whether an absence is excused or unexcused.
The only mandated accommodations of an absence are for religious holy days (N.C.G.S. § 116-11(3a)) or when a student has a court order requiring attendance.
Anticipated and Unanticipated Absences
The University’s Attendance Regulation refers to absences in two broad categories: anticipated and unanticipated.
Anticipated Absences
Include such events as mandated court appearances, required days of religious observance, and participation in an official university function. Because these events are known in advance, instructors are to be informed well ahead of their occurrence so arrangements for submitting coursework, or possibly scheduling a make-up test, can be made
Unanticipated Absences
Include such events as illness, the death of a family member, or a natural disaster. Once the event is known, communication with instructors as soon as possible is expected and in everyone’s best interest.
Explore the Absence Verification Process
Supporting Documentation
Learn more about the documents and information that should be attached to your Absence Verification request.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get the answers to your questions about the Absence Verification process.