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Excuse letter from a college student to a professor

A college student's excuse letter to a professor: subject and schedule, the dates missed, the reason, and a polite request to make up the quiz or work.

How to fill in this excuse letter

  1. 1Date
    e.g. November 12, 2026
  2. 2Addressed to
    e.g. Prof. Elmer D. Galvez
  3. 3Their position
    e.g. Faculty, Department of Accountancy
  4. 4School or company
    e.g. University of Santo Tomas, Manila
  5. 5Greeting
    e.g. Dear Prof. Galvez:
  6. 6Full name
    e.g. Patricia Mae S. Lim

Writing to a professor

Professors read many of these. A short, specific, respectful letter gets a quicker yes.

  • Name the subject, section and schedule — a professor may teach five sections.
  • Give the exact dates and a one-sentence reason; attach proof when you have it.
  • Say what you already did to catch up (got the notes, read the chapter).
  • Ask — do not assume — to take the missed quiz or submit late work.

Check the syllabus first

Most colleges drop a student after a set number of absences (often 20% of class hours). The syllabus and the student handbook say how many absences are allowed and how make-up exams work.

Questions people ask

Should I email it or print it?

Email it as soon as you can, with the PDF and the medical certificate attached, then hand the printed copy at the next meeting if the professor wants one.

Can a professor refuse a make-up quiz?

Yes — it depends on the syllabus and school policy. A prompt, polite request with proof makes a yes far more likely.

Do I need my parent's signature?

Usually not for college students, unless your school's rules say so. Sign it yourself and add your student number.

This page explains common practice and is not legal advice. Offices set their own rules — when in doubt, call ahead or ask your notary or lawyer.