Exam deferral is a standard policy at most colleges, universities, and higher education institutions that allows students to postpone or defer course examinations due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances. Make-up tests or make-up exams are the common names for these postponed exams. Exam deferral policies differ by institution or system, but many stipulate when and where make-up exams can be taken. Deferrals may be granted for religious reasons, as well as military or legal obligations.
Periodic testing is a standard educational procedure for determining a student’s grasp of the course subject. Many colleges and universities require comprehensive tests in the middle of the semester, dubbed “midterms,” and again at the end of the semester. These tests are referred to as “final exams” or simply “finals.” The results of these tests account for a significant portion of a student’s overall grade for the semester in many courses. Exam deferral policies help students avoid missing important tests due to unforeseen circumstances.
Exam deferrals were once thought to be a convenient alternative to a difficult final exam. Make-up tests were not always as closely monitored as exams in the original classroom. Some instructors used tests that had already been completed by other students, posing the risk of cheating. Deferred exams are now available in such a way that cheating is kept to a minimum. They are given on a specific date or dates, in a controlled environment, and are usually not the same as the original exam.
Most institutions only accept a limited number of reasons for an exam deferral. A note from a physician is usually required if a student cites a medical reason. Another common reason for a student to request a deferral is a family emergency. This does not always imply death or illness; some educational institutions will grant them for a sibling’s wedding or other significant events. The administrative office may, in any case, request independent verification of the reason for the deferral.
Religious holidays, military commitments such as National Guard training in the United States, or court appearances and jury duty are all examples of exam deferrals. Personal reasons, such as travel or vacation plans, are rarely acceptable justifications for a deferral. Some institutions, on the other hand, will grant a deferral if a student has multiple final exams on the same day. Most educational institutions have a deferral policy in place, which may include application deadlines. Students who believe they might need an exam deferral should look into their institution’s policies as soon as possible.