An exam deferral is a privilege that may be granted under extenuating circumstances.  Although rare, medical or compassionate circumstances may arise which prevent a student from writing an exam as scheduled. UM developed the Self-Declaration Policy for Students with these circumstances in mind.

If you are unable to write an exam and no other documentation is available, you must complete the Fillable Self-Declaration Form for submission with your request for deferred exam(s).  Students should be aware that submitting a Self-Declaration form either dishonestly, or for a non-valid reason is the same as submitting any other fraudulent (false) document, which may result in disciplinary action under the UM Student Discipline By-Law.

Examples of non-valid reasons

• Attending a personal or family event (e.g., vacation, wedding)
• Optional travel
• Technological difficulties
• Competitions or events, related to personal interests (choir, acting, pageants, exhibitions)
• Employment-related commitments

Examples of valid reasons

• Sudden illness or injury on the day of an exam
• Unexpected compassionate circumstances
• Known conflicts of religious observance
• Bereavement or loss of a loved one
• Participation in an inter-university, provincial, inter-provincial, national or international scholastic or athletic event

Be sure to check with an advisor in your home faculty (or your faculty’s website) to confirm which events and other reasons may be supported by the Self-Declaration form. There are some circumstances in which documentation may be required by your faculty. If you are experiencing anxiety around your academic obligations, please use the student supports resources available to you, such as:

• Academic Learning Centre for study skills, exam preparation, writing workshops
• Student Counselling Centre (or other Student Supports to manage stress and anxiety)
• Student Accessibility Services if related to an ongoing or chronic health condition

We wish you the best on your final examinations.