University Policy on Student Absence for Religious Observance

Head/Chairpersons of Departments/Programs should draw the attention of their faculty to the obligations under the Law. Any student who is unable to attend classes or to participate in any examination, study or work requirement because of religious observance is to be provided with an opportunity to make up the said examination, study or work requirement.

Students have the right to make up examinations, study or work requirements that they miss because of absence from class for religious observance, but they also have an obligation to inform the course instructor as to the days on which they may be absent for religious reasons at the beginning of each semester.

If they feel that it is important for course planning, instructors have the right to require students to provide a written list of days they will be absent for religious observance within one full calendar week after the student’s enrollment in the course, provided the course instructor lists this requirement and corresponding deadline on the course outline or other handouts.

In the event of a dispute between a faculty member and a student in the course, the Head (Chairperson/Designee) of the Department in which the course is taught shall be responsible for its amicable resolution. If the dispute cannot be resolved at this level, the issue should be referred to the Ombudsperson. Current procedures of resolving grievances of students (Sen. Doc. No. 86-020) apply.