Some students may have conditions that are unpredictable or uncertain and at times lead to challenges with meeting specific deadlines. While there are no blanket modifications to deadlines available as an accommodation, some students will qualify for limited extensions. Limited extensions are intended to provide students with flexibility should their condition unexpectedly impact their completion of the assignment. Limited extensions are intended to be "limited". While what constitutes limited may differ based on the essential requirements of a course, generally limited means 1-2 days.

Please note, limited extensions are not intended to provide extra time on exams. Extra time on exams is approved as a separate accommodation.

Key Things to Know

Limited extensions are not intended to modify all course due dates, but rather provide students with flexibility should there be a sudden and unexpected impact related to their condition.
Limited extensions are only intended to apply to requests related to the student's specific condition, and not intended to apply to other circumstances (e.g., family emergencies, conflicts with other courses, over scheduling, recreational activities).
Limited extensions do not "automatically" apply to due dates. Students need to talk with faculty about when extensions are appropriate in advance.
Students need to communicate the need for a limited extension proactively.
Students and instructors should discuss when notification should occur. Generally, notification should occur at least 24 hours in advance of the deadline, but specific time frames may differ based on the course.
Limited extensions are not intended to apply to exams, performances, presentations, or similar types of timed assignments.
Limited extensions are not intended to extend beyond the final course date. Any incomplete must be agreed upon by the instructor and the student. For more information about an incomplete, please see the Grade Rules information from the Registrar.

Student Responsibilities

Students are responsible for…

Meeting all general accommodation responsibilities as outlined as outlined on the SAS Website.
Meeting all essential course requirements as discussed with the instructor and listed within the syllabus.
Meeting with instructors to create a plan that includes:
- Time allowed for extensions based on essential requirements of assignments
- Notification requirements
- Assignments when flexibility is not reasonable
Communicating the request to the faculty member as soon as practical, but always before the assignment is due. Accommodations cannot be provided retroactively.
Completing all requirements related to the extension.
Communicating with SAS if limited extensions are not sufficient.

Limited Extensions Process

Generally, the process for limited extensions is as follows:

After sharing their accommodation letters, students reach out to the instructor to discuss limited extensions - SAS encourages students to initiate this discussion. If an instructor does not hear from the student, then we also encourage the instructor to reach out directly to the student.
The student and instructor meet to discuss limited extensions and create a plan - It is essential that students and instructors meet to discuss limited extensions and to create a plan to how limited extensions could be utilized in the course. What is reasonable varies based on the specific assignment and essential requirements, so it is important that students and instructors are on the same page about what limited extensions will mean for the specific course. SAS can assist in determining what is reasonable for a particular course.
When a student requires a limited extension, the student reaches out to the instructor for approval - Students must reach out to the instructor proactively for an extension.
Instructor approves the extension - The instructor must also approve the extension before the extended time is utilized. Instructors are not required to automatically approve all requested extensions.
Student submits the work by the extended deadline - Students are required to submit work by the extended deadline. It should not be assumed that extensions can be provided beyond what has been agreed to.

Implementation Recommendations

As an instructor implementing this accommodation, we recommend that you...

Talk with the student about their need for limited extensions. Questions can include, but are not limited to:
- When have you required extensions in the past?
- How frequently have you required extensions?
- Are there any proactive strategies that you use to ensure you can meet deadlines in the course?
- Can you submit assignments in advance?
Communicate all requirements and course expectations to students including:
- When extensions might not be reasonable
- Communication/notification expectations
- Timelines
- Consequences for missing deadlines
When requested proactively and reasonable, provide students with an updated assignment due date. If being submitted via Canvas, check to ensure submissions are still open at the time of the revised submission date.

Common Questions

Do students with this accommodation automatically get extensions on their assignments?

No. This accommodation is not intended to modify all of the due dates for assignments. Students should still be expected to meet deadlines as outlined by the instructor. To have limited extensions, students must notify faculty of the need based on the time frame previously discussed by the student and the instructor (for instance, notification should occur at least 24 hours in advance of the assignment being due).

Can an instructor request a flexibility agreement instead of providing limited extensions?

Yes. SAS can help an instructor complete a flexibility agreement with the student at the request of an instructor. Please reach out to SAS, and SAS can help initiate the process.