letter to professor about late assignment

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How to Email Professor About Late Work

Last Updated: April 12, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. and by wikiHow staff writer, Caroline Heiderscheit . Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 140,635 times.

With deadlines, jobs, activities, and relationships to juggle, managing your schedule as a student can be tough. If you’ve realized you’re going to miss a deadline (we’ve all been there), you might be wondering how to email your professor for an extension, to apologize, or to limit any late penalties. Don't worry, we've got you covered. Below, we'll walk you through how to email your professor, plus we'll give you some sample emails to inspire you, too. To learn how to email your professor about late work, read on!

Example Emails to Professors for a Late Assignment

Every now and then, it’s okay to miss a deadline. When this happens, send an email immediately and say something along the lines of, “I apologize for turning in this assignment late. Know that I take my work seriously, and I'll do my best to avoid this in the future. I would greatly appreciate an extension on this paper if possible.”

Tips For Late Work Emails

• Don’t say: “I’m just genuinely so, so sorry. I can’t believe I turned this in late, and you have no idea how long I prepped for this assignment. I really am so sorry that I missed the deadline, and you should know that I will do my best in the future, even when I have tech issues, to not let this happen again.”
• Instead say: “I apologize for turning in this assignment late. Know that I take my work seriously and I’ll do my best to avoid this in the future.”

• Don’t say: “Message from a student in Psych 104,” “Need an extension,” or “Hello from Randy Bernard!”
• Instead say: “Extension Request for Psych104, Paper 2: Randy Bernard”

• Use a formal greeting. “Dear Professor James,” and “Professor James,” are perfect. “Hey,” and “Hi,” are too informal and should be avoided.
• Same goes for your signoff—choose a formal phrase. “Best,” and “Sincerely,” are great picks.
• If you’re asking your professor for something, be sure to ask, not demand. Instead of saying “I need” an extension, say that an extension would be extremely helpful to you.
• Remember to use “Please” and “Thank you," too!

• This could hurt your relationship and increase penalties on your assignment.
• So instead, say you're sorry: “I apologize for my late assignment. I know you're busy, and I don’t want to waste your time.”
• “I’m sorry for this late paper, especially because it communicates a lack of care and concern for my grades that I don't feel is accurate.”

• “If I had an extra 48 hours to complete this assignment, I’d be able to fully explore and structure my insights for this term paper.”
• “I would greatly appreciate an extension on this project. With a little more time, I could turn in my very best work and learn even more from this assignment."

• “Last night, my dog had a bar of chocolate without me realizing. I’ve spent the entire evening with her at the vet.”
• "To be entirely honest, I've been dealing with some mental health issues that are seriously affecting my schoolwork."
• If you can, avoid lying. If you're granted an extension and the truth comes out later on, you could face major consequences.

• Don’t say: “Honestly, it was out of my hands entirely. I’m a victim of circumstance, and that’s why my assignment is late.”
• Instead say: “It's true that I didn’t plan for this to happen. That being said, if I’d started earlier, this wouldn’t have been an issue. So I know, ultimately, this is my fault. I take full responsibility.”

• “This isn’t like me, and in the future, I promise to do better.”
• “I take my schoolwork very seriously. If it weren’t for my dog’s illness, I would have made getting this assignment in my top priority.”

Sample Emails

Why You Should Email Your Professor About Late Work

• Policies around extensions differ from school to school, but by writing an A+ email, you can only help your chances.
• Generally, professors only give you an extension under extenuating circumstances, like a major accident. They're going to be less inclined to extend an assignment if you had competing priorities, like work.
• Professors are people too, and they want to help! Especially if you don’t have a history of late work, when you plead your case, they may be more forgiving than you’d expect.

• Especially if you had a major, unforeseen factor pop up in the final moments before submitting your assignment, you may be able to explain and limit your punishment.

• By offering a respectful and honest apology for your late assignment, you can improve your relationship with your professor, earn their respect, and possibly limit your late assignment’s penalties.

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://dean.williams.edu/files/2010/09/Guide-to-Emailing-Professors-1.pdf
• ↑ https://advising.yalecollege.yale.edu/how-write-email-your-instructor
• ↑ https://studentaffairs.loyno.edu/health-counseling/university-counseling-center/news-ucc/emailing-your-professor-tips-tricks-health
• ↑ https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/how-to-ask-for-an-extension/
• ↑ https://www.makemyassignments.com/blog/how-to-complete-your-assignments-before-the-deadline/
• ↑ https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2019/09/23/tips-handling-missed-deadline-opinion

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How to Send Email to the Professor About a Late Assignment

Table of contents

• 1.1 To show respect and inform the advisor that you will be late in returning the exercise
• 1.2 Apologizing for missing the deadline
• 1.3 Explaining the cause for tardiness
• 3 Late Assignment Letter Writing Tips
• 4 Examples of Late Assignment Letters

Convenient and easy time management is one of the students’ privileges. Meeting deadlines can be a headache, especially when you have a job, relationships, or a portion of new upcoming large tasks. At some point, you realize that 24 hours isn’t enough to deal with the planned schedule. If you feel like you’re going to miss a deadline, you might need to know some advice. Yet, there is no need to worry; reach out to your professor, clarify the situation, and notify him that you’ll be belated on some tasks. Even so, you might wonder how to compile the proper letter to your advisor, right? In the article, we’ll cover all the necessary aspects and teach you how to email a professor about a late assignment and beg pardon for being tardy. Don’t neglect it; it always comes in handy!

Why Do You Need to Write the Late Assignment Letter?

Often students don’t feel the urge to negotiate the issue and explain themselves. They are grown up and mature, so it seems unnecessary. However, there is a wide range of causes why you have to notify the teacher about being late on the task. Let’s revise some of them.

To show respect and inform the advisor that you will be late in returning the exercise

Writing to the teacher and explaining why you’ve missed the task might seem like an elementary school requirement. But, the need to apply to your lecturers is reasonable. Above all, it’s just a sign of intelligence and good manners. Also, it’s more rational to write to the advisor and inform him rather than miss the exercise without surplus notice.

Apologizing for missing the deadline

It is not a secret that professors get irritated by those learners who turn in their papers belated. Therefore, it would be an honorable intention to reach out by email to the professor about late assignment, apologizing for missing the due date. If you show your teacher that you’re sincerely sorry and provide a believable reason why it happened, the penalty might not be that harsh or absent at all. Don’t forget to mention that it was a one-time issue, and you won’t let it happen again.

Sometimes, you can’t predict whether the conditions will be pleasant for you and wonder how to email a professor about a late assignment. You may not have any chance to finish the given task, and the teacher won’t give you any extra time. In this case, you can pay for assignment to be done and turn it in before the deadline. The PapersOwl always creates unique papers, providing privacy and finishing the task exactly when you demand it. We all need a little help sometimes, so don’t be ashamed and apply to the website whenever you feel it’s necessary.

Explaining the cause for tardiness

We all are humans, after all, and tend to have complex life conditions. There are plenty of cases when something serious keeps learners from studying and completing exercises. At this rate, professors won’t be severe with you. They can listen and understand the conditions you’ve been through. You might get sick, or help your parents cure when they aren’t feeling well, etc. So, usually, those learners get in touch with their advisors and ask them to let them miss the specified date.

How to Write a Proper Late Assignment Email?

Making a late assignment email to professor seems complicated. You can’t predict if he will give you an extension for an assignment and let you finish with some extra time. Though, you must create a perfect letter by following certain steps to receive the best possible feedback.

The letter has to be written to your instructor. So, you need to start with the appeal. Consider that the tone of the letter is supposed to show respect, and the name of the advisor is mentioned properly, with the designation. If required, you can also copy the message and share it with the head of the faculty. Afterward, you need to come up with the subject; for example, use the “Apology for missed task submission”. Still, take into account that the topic depends on your particular issue.

Now you need to write the body of the letter. It is a helpful idea to start with an introduction and an apology. Then try to clarify the purpose of the appeal and quickly get to the point. Professors don’t like long reads with plenty of unnecessary words. Make sure you show that you’ve accepted your fault and will try your best not to repeat it.

Explain the causes to the teacher. Remember, you must be honest, and the circumstances of the missed deadline have to be valid. Don’t take the nice approach of the instructor for granted – he might turn your request down if he sees you deceiving him. There are some common problems that advisors are ready to consider and negotiate:

• family emergency
• unexpected Internet outage while online assignment writing saving
• laptop breakdown
• mixup with the time upon the due date
• not enough time to finish the work because of its complexity

If none of the proposed reasons worked out, you might apply to the Internet. There are a variety of websites that are ready to offer their help and do your assignment for you. Besides, if you choose a reliable service, the writers will do excellent research and get you a higher mark that will change your final results to the best.

If you or your family members have been through some health illness, you are free to attach any relevant proof. For example, medical reports or specific prescriptions. Those documents will confirm your inability to finish the tasks.

Come up with a conclusion. You can sincerely apologize again and assure the instructor that you’ll do your best not to repeat the same mistake in the future. Familiarizing yourself with time management for college students is a great way to ensure that. Remember that the closure of the writing is supposed to be delicate. You can also mention that you hope for the teacher’s understanding. In the end, indicate your name, signature, and other relevant data if necessary.

Late Assignment Letter Writing Tips

In addition to your appeal, you can use some advice. There is a chance that they would convince the instructor to agree to the extension and soften the penalties.

Be in charge of your actions. All of the teachers hate when students avoid the blame. The instructor has nothing to do with the fact that you couldn’t submit your papers on time. Moreover, accepting your fault will show them how mature and professional you are.

Be a bit more precise. Still, try not to overshare. If you’re dealing with any problems, such as mental issues or emergencies, indicate it in your letter. The truth will come up on the surface anyway, so it’s preferable to show that you were honest rather than always attending the lectures flashing from shame.

Remain polite. It’s highly recommended not to let your demons out. We all are allowed to feel emotions, but when apologizing, try not to be angry. Don’t forget to appeal with “Dear Professor Casey”, and use phrases like “Best regards” and “Sincerely”. Make sure you’re not demanding the extension, but kindly ask the teacher if he could let you have it.

Have a backup plan. Even if the advisor hasn’t answered you or you have no idea how to send an email about a late assignment, start doing the examination or thinking about the thesis.

Or put some effort into finding a professional service that provides the best accounting assignment help and specializes in various other topics so that you can use it as your backup plan. There you’ll find approachable rates and high-skilled writers. Besides, the teacher will be satisfied with the decently done homework.

Examples of Late Assignment Letters

Dear Professor (insert teacher’s name), I am (type your name), a student of the Faculty of (type the name of the faculty), of the Department of (type the name of the department). I’m emailing to express regret for missing the deadline for our weekly assignment. I value your time and care a lot about your class. The truth is, I have been extremely sick this week. My condition made it impossible to complete the work. I recognize that it is my fault that I haven’t notified you earlier, but I hoped I would get back on track within a few days and start focusing on homework when I’m feeling better. That was not clever of me, and I take full responsibility. You can see the note from my doctor in the attachments below. Again, I am so sorry for the discomfort. If you have any further questions for me, I will be glad to answer them. In case you would like to chat in person and discuss the issue, I’ll be available after classes starting next Monday. Sincere apology (indicate your name)

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Late Assignment Email: Examples and Professor Escape Tips

• by Joseph Kenas
• January 18, 2024
• Professors and Faculty

Late assignment emails are ways that students use to communicate to their professors on issues of late assignments. Here are top late assignment examples and tips to get away with a late assignment

Students getting late with assignments is a common thing in school today, and it is good to find a way to save face and earn a grade. And nothing hacks the situation better than an email to the professor.

These are not just normal emails and there are specifications that students need to follow when communicating to the lecturer on late assignments.

Be intentional when writing to your instructor. Therefore, before we delve into the examples of emails you can write to your professor when you are late, let us first check some of the reasons that may necessitate such action.

Why Write a Late Assignment Email to your Professor?

The following are some of the reasons why students write late assignment emails to their professors:

1. To Inform the Professor That you Will Submit the Assignment Late

Students who are unable to finish their assignments on time write to professors to inform them that their assignments will be late.

It is important to inform professors in advance that you will not submit your assignment as per the deadline rather than submitting it with no notice. 

2. Explaining why you will be Late

Some students are held up by unavoidable circumstances that hinder them from completing their assignments on time.

When the student is ill or his parents or guardians are, balancing time between taking care of parents, doing household chores, and doing their assignments is hard.

These students write to their instructors informing them that they may miss the assignment deadline

3. Requesting for An Extension

Students who can’t finish their assignments on time write to their instructors requesting additional time to complete their assignments.

This email should explain the reasons as to why they were unable to meet the set deadline, their assignment progress, and the time that they need to complete the assignment.

Students who request deadlines to have more time for conducting research and eventually submitting quality work are mostly known by professors and get their requests granted. 

4. Apologizing for Late Assignments

Professors hate it when students hand in their work late. It is, therefore, good if students write emails to their professors apologizing for late assignment submissions.

An apology email should be written in a sincere most manner. This can help avoid harsh penalties and earn leniency from your professor.

Professors are always understanding and will listen to your concerns provided you don’t have a record of being irresponsible. An apology email should have believable reasons as to why your assignment is late.

It should also have the apology directed to the instructor and a promise that you made a mistake and it will never be repeated. 

How to Write a Late Assignment Email

In our guide on how to write an email to a professor , we guided you on the steps to take and the reasons that can necessitate it. However, emails on lateness are different.

Late assignment emails have become common among students today. Most people are familiar with emails but not very good with writing late emails.

Below is how one should write a late assignment email to your professor.

On the “To” part write the email address of your professor.

Always confirm that you have the correct email address to avoid sending your email to a different person. 

On the subject part of the email write the reason why you are sending the email. The reasons can be?

• Application letter for late assignment submission. This can be due to the need for more time for research or if the student forgot submitting homework or did not remember when the assignment was due.
• Apology letter for late assignment submission. This is a direct apology to the professor for late assignment submissions, a regret for any inconvenience caused, and a promise to change.
• Request for a deadline extension. This is mostly written by students who have not done the assignment due to unavoidable circumstances.

Still, on the subject part, include your name and personal information that will help the professor identify you.

On the body part of your email explain why you are writing the email. Begin with a salutation that is “Dear sir/madam.”

Now explain yourself in simple terms and make the professor understand why you are submitting your assignment late. You can borrow an example from a list of excuses for a late assignment that I have created from my interactions with students.

End it with a polite closure. Most students use “sincere apologies and regards.” Insert your name or your school registration number at the end.

Examples of Late Assignment Emails

1. an example of a late submission apology.

2. Deadline Extension Email example

Tips when Writing a Late Assignment Email

There are several things you should do and not do when writing a late assignment email.

Keep it brief

Never write a long letter. Go straight to the point. Explain yourself in 6-7 sentences. Anything more than that will be too big. Remember the professor has limited time.

Use the Correct Email

Make sure that the email of your professor is correct. You can check it on the syllabus where they provide it or on the official website of the institution.

This is very crucial. You have done a mistake and you should address the professor in the right manner. Use the full name of the professor.

Also, use Dear sir/madam at the beginning. Mind the tome of the language you use. Be sorry. End your email with a complimentary close too.

Fill in the subject part of the email correctly

This is where you write what your email is all about. Use statements such as “late assignment submission” or “missed paper deadline. Write your name too and your personal information too for easy identification. 

• If you need a deadline extension, ask for permission to meet up and set another due date for your assignment.
• Always apologize for your lateness and express regrets for not completing your assignment on time. 

The Don’ts

Avoid a friendly language.

Even if you are friends with the professor write your email in an official language. If you use too much informal language, the teacher may ignore your email and this becomes a waste of time.

Avoid Long Emails

Do not write a lot of information. You are likely to distort the message. Some professors do not like such long emails because, in the first place, they know the disadvantages of late homework to the rest of the class.

When you lie and investigations reveal you lied, you will be in for severe penalties. Always be sincere with your explanation of what led to late submission.

Do not Shift Blames

Take responsibility for submitting the assignment late. Don’t blame the professor or the institution. 

What to Write to your Professor

In most cases, instructors provide you with a guide for sending assignments through emails. In these cases, follow the instructions fully.

When there are no instructions provided, on the subject part write the course name, course code, the title of the assignment, and your details.

On the body part of the professor begin with a proper email greeting and explain briefly what you have sent. Attach the assignment file and send.

Joseph is a freelance journalist and a part-time writer with a particular interest in the gig economy. He writes about schooling, college life, and changing trends in education. When not writing, Joseph is hiking or playing chess.

Emailing your Professor About a Late Assignment: Here’s What You Need to Know

Academic assignments count toward the total marks needed to pass a course. That’s why, whether, in high school or university, you must submit the assignment before the deadline to get the grade. But what if you are late in submitting your assignment?

According to a survey report,  75% of students claimed they faced consequences for late assignment submission  and accepted they were procrastinators. That also includes the missed paper deadline while doing research.

So, how do you communicate with your professor about a late submission in a way that will hopefully avoid academic penalties?

This article will help you write an email about your late assignment.

Table of Contents

Why Should You Write a Late Assignment Submission Email to Your Professor?

You need to inform your professor about a late submission before the assignment deadline. That might help you avoid losing marks. Since the course assignment’s marks adds to the grand total, you can’t afford to lose that grade just because of a late submission.

So, here are the reasons why you should write a late assignment submission email to your professor.

To Tell the Professor About Your Late Assignment Submission

Your professor won’t know that your assignment is going to be late if you don’t inform them. This lack of knowledge will certainly affect your grade. So, writing an email for late assignments must be a priority.

Some professors are generous and might accept your apology letter. But again, you must first tell them by writing an email correctly. Even the kindest professor will probably never give you some leeway if you don’t inform them about the situation first.

On the other hand, some professors are not as gracious and might penalize you even if you tell them you will be submitting your work late. So, the situation also depends on your luck and the faculty you are studying in.

To Explain Why You Will Be Submitting a Late Assignment

Another reason you should email your professor about turning in the assignment late is to give a reasonable excuse. Those reasons could be:

• You were admitted to a hospital.
• You had an emergency.
• There was a power outage, and you lost your internet connection.

However, it’s better if you attach proof with the excuse. Why?

A report indicates that  70% of American students make fraudulent claims  when submitting late assignments. So, be an honest student and never make a false statement for marks.

To Request a Deadline Extension

Some assignments require extensive research, and you might not complete them within the given time frame. That’s when you need to write an email to request an extension of the assignment deadline.

You must remember that professors will only accept deadline extension requests that are sound. They also know the scope of an assignment and might decline your request if the assignment doesn’t require that much research.

So, add assignment extension excuses in your email if they are relevant. For example:

• Computer crashed
• Family emergency
• Job interview

That way, your professor might extend the assignment submission deadline.

To Apologize for The Late Submission of Assignments

Most students submit their assignments on time and get the deserved reward. However, some students submit their assignments late and don’t inform the professor about the late assignment.

Students also don’t tell the class representative (CR) about the late submission and lose marks at the end. Therefore, the best way is to sincerely apologize to your professor and accept responsibility for your mistake.

That will help you stay positive while your professor goes through your email. However, an apology letter is not enough. You must know how to write an email for late assignments appropriately.

How Do You Send an Email Regarding Your Late Assignment?

You couldn’t complete your assignment on time, and now it’s the last moment. Have you left it too late?

When you complete an assignment, you must check that you have done the following:

• Proofread the text for errors
• Formatted it properly
• Included relevant attachments
• Referenced it properly

Your professor has laid out the requirements for submitting an assignment. But now, you are afraid of facing the consequences of a late assignment submission. What can you do?

Firstly, you must keep your nerve. Since the due date is today, you can’t really do anything except write an email to your professor and throw yourself on his or her mercy.

But if you are feeling stressed and facing writer’s block, you might be unsure of how to structure your mail. What should be included?

Correct Email Address

Writing the correct email is the first and most basic element. Most teachers use their academic email addresses to communicate with the class. Therefore, you must write the correct teacher’s email in the “To” section.

Remember that finding the teacher’s email is not simple, especially if your institute has no student portal. In that case, consult your CR or academic department and get the correct email address.

Subject Line

The subject line of an email is important. Unfortunately, many people write something vague or confusing, resulting in either a delayed or non-response.

The recipient of your email, your teacher, expects to receive emails from students correctly. That’s why the email’s subject is the beginning of your email and must be written with clear focus.

But what to write on in the subject line?

Typically, the subject contains the purpose of the email. That should give you a fair idea of what to include.

Since we are talking about late assignments, you should probably write a title like this:

Application for Late Assignment Submission

This subject line will prepare your teacher for the fact that you are going to submit your assignment late and will explain why. Sometimes students face unavoidable delays such as:

• Emergency with a family member
• No internet service

So, you must write this subject in the email and prepare your teacher for what is about to come.

Request for Deadline Extension

You need to back up a deadline extension request with a solid reason. For example, students require deadline extensions when they can’t complete the assignment on time. You can request your professor to extend the deadline in such a situation.

Some assignments need a lot of research, but they have tight deadlines. So, you can also email your professor and ask for an extension if you can’t complete the assignment by the due date.

Remember to write to your professor requesting a deadline extension several days before the due date. That’s a good policy and might convince your teacher that you deserve an extension.

Apology for Submitting the Assignment Late

This subject part means you submitted the assignment late, and now you are apologizing for that. Remember that a sincere apology often works, depending of course on the kind of professor who is supervising your work.  

So, apologize for the late submission, as it shows you are willing to take responsibility for the situation. Once you send the email, remain calm and hope for the best.

Some students face writer’s block and can’t start writing an email. That’s why we recommend you follow this structure:

• Begin with a proper salutation like “Dear Sir/Madam.”
• Start with your name, student ID, class, and section information.
• Inform the professor about your situation and explain why your assignment is going to be late.
• Provide a solid excuse.
• Attach proofs, for example, a doctor’s note or a job application if you went for an interview.
• Apologizing properly will at least get you partial credit.

The body of the email must include all the relevant factors that caused the late assignment submission. You must also write a sincere apology so your teacher understands that you accept responsibility for the situation.

Include the dates you will be able to submit your assignment. That will help you prepare for the next assignment. After that, give your best regards when closing the email.

Your learning institution also encourages you to apologize to your teacher for presenting a late assignment. Once you are done writing the email, send warm regards and check the email again before sending it.

Things to Consider While Writing a Late Assignment Email

To recap, here are four things to remember when writing an email about a late assignment:

Write to the Correct Email Address

Many students fail to inform their professors about their late assignments despite sending an email. Why?

Their email either gets delivered to the wrong recipient or is never delivered. That happens when you use an incorrect email address. Therefore, always make sure to use your teacher’s correct email address.

Write the Subject Title Correctly

The subject line matters a lot, especially if you are requesting a favor from someone. So, carefully analyze the situation and write a clear subject heading. A good email subject line might lighten your teacher’s mood, and they might favor you.

Keep it Short

Your teacher doesn’t have all day to read your email. So, ensure you write a brief email with a  maximum of 3-4 sentences  and avoid irrelevant details. Your teacher might want to call you and communicate in person so that you can explain yourself.

If things are quite serious and you can’t attend the meeting, explain why you didn’t meet the deadline in the email.

Be Polite and Regretful

Your writing style must be polite and regretful because you have made a mistake. You must also end on a polite note so that your teacher will remember your request.

Things to Avoid When Writing a Late Assignment Email

You should avoid the following four things when writing an email for a late assignment.

Familiar Tone

The recipient of this email is your teacher, not your buddy. Therefore, avoid using a familiar tone as it can worsen the situation. You must also provide a valid reason in a professional manner.

Many students who don’t take the teacher-student relationship seriously write informal emails to their professors. They might not know their professor’s reaction. However, their professor might take note of the student’s ID and might penalize them later in some way.

These kinds of emails might also give spurious reasons for late submission like:

• My dog ate my assignment.
• My siblings burned the assignment.
• I forgot that I had to submit the assignment.

This sort of approach and writing style might create unforeseen problems for you in your academic career in the future.

Most teachers are busy during the week and don’t have time to read a long letter or email. So, if you send a long email explaining why you submitted the assignment after the due date, your teacher might simply not read your email.

Students who struggle with writing emails usually write long stories when explaining why they couldn’t submit their assignments on the due date. That’s why they don’t get a new deadline or credit for the late assignment.

Blaming others for your mistake is a sign of immaturity. Even if you are sincerely apologetic but blame someone else for the late paper submission, your teacher might penalize you.

When you blame others, your teacher starts keeping an eye on you. That makes your future academic career more difficult, so accept your mistake and take responsibility. That will help you be more mature in the future.

How Do You Ask a Professor If You Can Submit a Late Assignment?

You must write an email to your professor and inform them that your assignment will be late. Remember to give a genuine reason and submit quality work once your request is approved.

How Do I Apologize to My Professor for the Late Work?

Write an apologetic email to your professor and give a valid reason why you submitted your work late.

Final Words

Always write a professional email to your professor about your late submission or when requesting an extension to your deadline. This email will give your professor a positive impression of you as a student. As a result, you might be eligible to get credit for your late assignment.

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Sample Email To Professor About Late Assignment

With activities, jobs, relationships, and deadlines to juggle, it can often be challenging for the student to manage their schedule. If you have understood that you may miss a deadline, it is best to acknowledge it and look for ways to tell your professor.

Did you consider sending a sample email to professor about late assignment?

You can use this email to curtail late penalties, apologize, or get an extension. Below we will enlist a few tips on how to email your professor. By the end of it, we will also give a late assignment email to professor example that can inspire you.

Continue reading to inform your professor about the late work.

Tips for late assignment email to the professor

Keep it short and brief..

When you write to a professor, you are nervous and tend to overshare or ramble. We understand that, but please avoid this as much as you can. Professors are busy with multiple tasks daily and do not have the time to read lengthy emails.

So, please keep them brief and to the point. It is safe to provide the information that they should know. Also, after completing the email, please go back, re-read, and edit it to ensure its precision. 

Avoid statements like

I am so sorry. I cannot believe I am making a late submission. You do not know how long I have prepped for this assignment, but I missed the deadline. Please be ensured that I will do my best in the future and guarantee that it is not a repeat occurrence.

Alternatively, say things like

I am sorry for turning in this assignment late. Please know I take my work seriously, and such an incident will never be repeated.

Include a subject line that is detailed but clear.

Begin your email with a simple and relevant subject line sans any vague phrases. Even though your subject should be detailed, it should not be excessively lengthy. Please know your professor manages a massive inbox. So, the more time you cut down for them, the more grateful they will be to you.

Avoid subject lines like: 

• Email from a Psych 104 student
• Need an Assignment Extension
• Hi there from Mark Jacobs

Alternatively, go for subject lines like:

Request for Extension for Psych 104: Mark Jacobs.

Keep the tone polite but professional.

Regardless of how cordial you are with your professor or if you have personally informed him about the late submission when you write the email, you need to be more. Keep the tone as courteous as possible across the email.

Here are some tips to keep it polite:

• Across the email, use Please and Thank You, wherever applicable.
• When asking for an extension, do not demand but request. Avoid statements like: I need an extension. Instead, write: I will be glad if I can get an extension.
• Be formal in your greeting. Avoid greets like Hi or Hey. Alternatives like Professor Martin or Dear Professor Martin are recommended.
• The same applies when signing off. Go with a formal phrase – Yours Sincerely or With Best Regards or Best. 

Be apologetic 

Let your professor know that despite this late submission, you are serious about the subject and take the deadlines seriously. If you go on to explain your situation or directly ask for an extension without a formal apology, your professor will think you are ungrateful.

• It can amplify the penalties on the assignments.
• It might tarnish the relationship you have with your professor forever.
• Hence, always apologize.

Say things like:

I am sorry for the late submission. I understand you are busy, and I have zero intent to waste your time.

I apologize for the late assignment. I know it communicates a lack of concern for my grade, but I do not think it is accurate. I could not turn it in on time because (the reason for the delay!)

Request for the extension

Request the professor to push the deadlines a little if you can have your paper ready. Do not worry. You are not alone. Professors routinely get such requests but sadly cannot accommodate each one of them. So, please be thoughtful and honest, as it can amplify your chances of bagging an extension. Via your email, your professor must feel that you take things seriously. So, show them what you have already completed. It can be particularly beneficial if you have already finished the assignment but only need a day or two to make minor amends.  

Here is what you can say:

• Professor, only if I had an extra 24 hours to finish this I could structure and explore my insights on the topics for this submission.
• I would be grateful to get an extension for 48 hours on this project. I can put forth my best work and learn more from this task with only a little more time.

Include helpful context

Again do not overshare, but explain why you could not complete the task within the stipulated timeline. List the hurdles that came your way in completing the assignment, but do not get into the detail. Regardless, be honest and brief because if you get the extension and the truth comes out later, you may have to bear serious consequences.

• My little pup chewed a leaf from our indoor garden, which was toxic. Consequently, I had to spend the entire evening at the vet.
• I have been feeling very overwhelmed for the last couple of days, which has affected my schoolwork too. Please accept my apologies.

Own it, and do not blame

Of course, it may be the hardest thing to do, especially if things were not in your control. But please do not play the blame game. If you accept responsibility, you will probably get what you are seeking. Your professor will appreciate your professionalism and maturity and grant an extension.

Avoid statements like:

In all honesty, things were not in my hands, and I am a victim of my circumstances. Hence, the submission could not be made timely.

Instead, say

Honestly, I did not plan for any of this to happen, and I know I could have completed it in time if I commenced a little earlier. Hence, I know it is my fault and take full responsibility.

Say that it won’t happen again.

If it was a fluke occurrence, please go ahead and let your professor know that you will not make it a habit, and it is and will only be a one-time thing. Let them know you are typically responsible and organized and care for your grades and education.

• It is very unlike me, and I promise to do better henceforth.
• Please know I take my schoolwork very seriously. The assignment would have been my top priority if not for my mental health.

Support your email with a relevant document.

If your submission was late because of your dog’s poor health, a family medical emergency, or your mental health, support the email with medical documentation. Of course, you do not have to attach all the documents: one or two official receipts, notes, or medical records will suffice.

Have a backup plan ready.

Please know when you have asked for an extension, regardless of whether the request is approved, you must get to work immediately. Of course, you must hope for the best, but do not wait for the replies. Try to finish the task at the earliest or hire someone to do your homework .

Here is a late assignment email to professor sample:

Subject: Late Submission of Assignment for [Course Name and Number]

Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],

I am writing to inform you that I will submit my [assignment name] late. I understand that the due date was [due date], and I apologize for my inability to deliver it on time.

The reason for my delay is [explain the reason concisely, such as personal or health reasons, technical issues, etc.]. However, I have completed the assignment and attached it to this email.

I understand that late submissions may come with a penalty, and I am willing to accept any consequences for the delay. I hope you will still consider grading my assignment and providing feedback. It will help my academic progress.

Once again, I apologize for any inconvenience my late submission may have caused, and I thank you for your understanding.

[Your Name]

[Class Name and Number]

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Aug 8, 2022

How to email a professor with 22 different examples

Learn how to email your professor (and what to avoid doing) and check out 22 sample emails to help you get started.

Lawrie Jones

Table of contents

Is there anything more nerve-racking than sending an email to a professor?

Every student will need to send an email to a professor at some point, whether you're asking for an extension, explaining an absence, or a little extra help. But how do you write an email to a professor?

In this guide on how to email a professor, we break down the steps to writing better messages. You'll learn the structure of a good email to a professor (and what to avoid).

And if this is not enough to convince you that it's easier than you might think, we finish off by providing 22 sample emails to a professor!

If you want to impress your professor with perfect grammar, make sure to try Flowrite :

How to send an email to a professor

So, how do you write an email to a professor? Professors are professional people who will be used to traditional email etiquette. That's not to say that you can't introduce some individuality into your emails; it's just important to show respect. 

You'll understand your relationship better than we do. You can be a little less formal if you feel it's appropriate.

Following the correct email etiquette is essential – and easy. In this article we break it down into steps to illustrate what we mean. We've also written about proper email etiquette on our blog before:

It's also important to keep emails short and to the point. Professors receive hundreds of messages daily and don't have time to delve too deeply to get the information they need. Say who you are, what you want, and why you're messaging upfront.

Should I send an email to a professor?

Classes can be busy, and a professor's time can be limited, so email is an ideal way to communicate with your Professor. Emails enable you to go into detail, create lists and spend time crafting a complex message.  

If your question or comment is urgent or sensitive, consider whether it's better to book a meeting or pull them aside for a chat. 

Only you can decide whether to email a professor.

How long should I wait for a reply?

Professors are people with busy lives and professional responsibilities, so you may need to wait for a reply. But how long should you wait for a response from your Professor?

There are no hard and fast rules on how long to wait for a reply, but the general rule is to give it two or three days before sending a follow-up. You can learn more in our guide on how to write a follow-up email.

Email format for messaging a professor

The email format for a professor should be familiar to anyone who understands the basics of messaging. Here's how it works:

• Subject line

• Body copy

• Signature

If you're unfamiliar with how to write a formal email, check out Flowrite blogs that delve deeper into what makes a great subject line, how to greet someone, appropriate sign-offs, and striking the right tone of voice. 

Subject line for an email to professor

Your subject line should spell out exactly what your message is about. Why? Because professors get hundreds of emails daily, they'll need a reason to open and respond to yours. 

We've provided some examples below.

How to greet a professor in an email

Professors should always be addressed using their titles. You can open an email in a few ways, such as:

• Dear Professor 

• Hi Professor

Avoid casual openings, such as "hey" or "how are you doing?". Instead, always uses your Professor's title to show respect, even if you start an email with "Hi" or "Hello."

How to address professor in email

We've covered the importance of using a professor's title in an email, but there's more to it. When discussing how to address a professor in an email, we're talking about the tone of voice – and getting that right can be tricky.

You'll want to be personal, but being too familiar can cause problems. We've written before about how to hit the right tone, so start there. Our examples below show how we've put this into practice.

How to start an email to a professor

An excellent way to start your email is by stating who you are and explaining what your message is about. As we've established, professors receive hundreds of messages every day, so they'll skim-read your message. Unless you're clear with what you want, you could find it binned.

You can see 22 examples of how to address your emails and get to the point as soon as possible.

How to sign off an email to professor

There are several ways you can end an email you a professor. Traditionally, you'd use "your sincerely," but today, you can be a little less formal. Some safe email endings to a professor include:

• Kind regards

• Yours sincerely

Email to professor examples

So, we've explained the basics of emailing your Professor; now it's time to put it into practice with samples. Here are 22 email to professor examples that should cover any scenario. So, whether you're asking for advice, access to a class, or a little extra support, we've got a template for you. 

22 sample emails to a professor

Here are 22 examples of how to email your Professor. These should cover a whole range of situations that you could find yourself in. As with all our templates, use them as inspiration, and be sure to adapt them to your specific situation. 

Ready to get writing to your Professor? Then let's begin.

1. How to write an excuse email to professor example

2. how to email professor for extension example, 3. how to email professor asking for extra credit example, 4. how to email a professor about failing a class example, 5. how to send a follow-up email to a professor, 6. how to write a formal email to a professor example, 7. how to email a professor about getting into their class example, 8. how to email a professor about a grade example, 9/ how to introduce yourself in an email to a professor example, 10. how to ask professor to accept late assignment email example, 11. how to email a professor for a letter of recommendation example, 12. how to email professor about missing class example, 13. how to write a polite email to a professor example, 14. how to write a professional email to a professor example, 15. how to write a proper email to a professor example, 16. how to ask a question to a professor email example, 17. how to write a reminder email to professor example, 18. how to reply back to a professor's email example, 19. how to email a professor about research example, 20/ how to schedule an appointment with a professor email example, 21. how to email professor about being sick example, 22. how to write a thank you email to a professor example, closing words.

Writing emails to a professor can cause mild anxiety, but it doesn't need to be so. We hope that breaking down how to email a professor into steps and providing a massive number of samples will help.

It's essential to understand the principles of crafting professional emails, such as an email to a professor – now it's time to put it into practice.

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How to Write an Email to a Professor (With Examples)

Hannah Yang

Table of Contents

How to email a professor in 7 steps, email to professor examples.

Emailing your professor can be a daunting task.

Writing professional emails is never easy, but composing an email to a professor can feel especially nerve-racking. After all, your professors have a lot of control over your academic success and your future career, so you don't want to make a mistake.

So, how exactly do you write a successful email to a professor?

In this article, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide for how to write an email to your professor, plus a set of email templates you can use.

We’ve broken the process of emailing your professor into seven simple steps.

Step 1: How to Write the Subject Line

Start by writing a clear, concise subject line for your email.

Your subject line should be specific to your situation. Ideally, your professor should understand why you’re emailing them without even having to open the body of your message.

For example, if you’re emailing to request an extension for a research paper, you can use the subject line “Research paper deadline extension.” Or, if you’re emailing to ask for a clarification about the syllabus, you can use the subject line “Question about class syllabus.”

Step 2: How to Address a Professor in an Email

You should start your email with a formal salutation.

You can use formal greetings, such as “Dear” or “Hi,” followed by your teacher’s preferred title, whether that’s “Professor [Last Name],” “Mr. [Last Name],” “Ms. [Last Name],” or simply “[First Name].”

If you’re not sure about your professor’s title, “Dear Professor [Last Name]” is always a safe bet.

Step 3: How to Start an Email to a Teacher

Start your email by introducing yourself and explaining which class you’re in. For example, you might write, “My name is Hannah, and I’m a freshman in your ENGL 453 class.”

It’s common for professors to teach multiple classes, especially at large universities, so they don’t always know all their students by name. If you’re emailing from your academic account, they’ll likely be able to see your full name in the system, but it’s still better to be safe than sorry.  

Of course, if you’ve already established a working relationship with your professor, and they know who you are, you don’t have to introduce yourself. Instead, you can start your email with a friendly greeting, such as “I hope your week is going well” or “Happy Friday!”

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Step 4: How to Explain Your Request

Now that you’ve finished your introduction, it’s time to explain all the essential information about why you’re writing this message.

Professors lead busy lives, so try to keep the body of your email as concise as possible. Don’t use a whole paragraph when a single sentence would do.

Try to keep a professional tone while you explain your request. You don’t need to sound overly stiff, but you should generally avoid using slang or making jokes.

If you’re writing about an issue that includes personal details, such as a health issue or the loss of a loved one, it’s okay to be vague when explaining your reasons. Don’t feel pressure to include details about your personal life that you’re not comfortable sharing.

Finally, be specific about what kind of follow-up action you’re requesting from your professor, if any. For example, you can write, “Please let me know if it would be possible to extend the deadline,” or “Please send me your feedback on this draft at your earliest convenience.”  

Step 5: How to End an Email to a Professor

You can end the body of your email with a simple expression of gratitude. You can write something like, “Thank you for your understanding and support,” or simply “Thanks for your time.”

Step 6: How to Sign Off an Email

Sign off your email with a simple closing salutation, followed by your first name.

Keep it simple and polite. Popular choices include “Best,” “Thanks,” “Sincerely,” and “Regards.”

Step 7: Edit Your Email with ProWritingAid

You don’t want to send your professor an email riddled with grammar mistakes, especially if it’s your English professor! And even if they teach a different subject, like math or biology, you still want to make sure you’re putting your best foot forward.

Editing your email with ProWritingAid can help you avoid mistakes. Our editing tool will correct grammar errors, spelling typos, and weak word choices.

You can even ask the tool to help you ensure you’re using a formal tone so your email doesn’t come across as casual or unprofessional.

Now that we’ve gone over the seven steps for writing an email to a professor, let’s look at some examples.

Here are some email templates you can use, depending on your specific situation.  

Sick Email to Professor Example

Subject line: Missing class today

Dear Professor [Last Name],

My name is [your name], and I’m a student in your class [class name]. I’m writing to let you know that I won’t be able to make it to class today, due to health issues. [Insert details if needed].

Please let me know what material we’ll be covering so I can make it up before the next class.

[Your name]

Sample Email to Professor Asking for Help

Subject line: Help with [class name]

My name is [your name]. I’ve been really struggling with your class [class name] this semester, and I’m having a hard time understanding [details].

Would you have time to sit down with me and help me better understand the material? I would welcome any support you can offer.

Thank you in advance! I look forward to hearing from you.

How to Email a Professor About a Grade

Subject line: My grade for [assignment/exam name]

I hope your week is off to a good start!

I recently received my grade for [assignment/exam name], and it was lower than I expected. Could you please tell me where I lost points?

I know you have a busy schedule, but I would really appreciate more details, since I’m sure that information could also help me improve my grades in the future.

Thank you so much for your time!

Sample Email to Professor for Research

Subject line: Research opportunities in your lab

I hope you’re doing well!

My name is [your name], and I’m a [year, major]. I’m writing to ask about research opportunities in your lab next semester.

I’m really interested in the topic you’re researching because [details], and I have experience conducting research with [previous experience, if any].

Please let me know if you have any openings that might be suitable for me. I look forward to hearing from you!

How to Write an Apology Email for Missing a Class

Subject line: Missing class yesterday

I hope your week is going well.

I’m writing to apologize for missing your class [class name] yesterday. I was unable to attend because [details].

I know it was an important class and that I shouldn’t have missed it. I’ll do my best to ensure this doesn’t happen again. Thank you for your support and understanding.

Extension Email to Professor Example

Subject line: Extension for [Assignment Name]

My name is [your name], and I’m a student in your class [class name]. I’m writing to request an extension for our assignment about [assignment details].

I’ve been struggling to complete the assignment in time because of [reasons]. I would really appreciate it if you could extend the deadline to [new deadline date], due to my situation.

Please let me know if that would be okay. Thank you so much for your flexibility.

Thanks again,

How to Write a Follow-Up Email to a Professor

Subject line: Follow-up re: [subject]

I recently emailed you about [topic].

I’m just writing to follow up on my previous email and make sure you’ve received it. If you have, please let me know when I can expect a reply.

Thank you again for your time!

Warm regards,

How to Email a Professor About Getting Into Their Class

Subject line: Joining your class [class name]

My name is [your name], and I’m a [year, major] at [school name]. I’m interested in joining your class [class name]. I’m really fascinated by [topic] because [reasons], and I’ve heard that your class is a must-take class for students interested in [topic].

I don’t know how much demand there is for the class, but I’m curious if there’s anything I should do in advance to increase my chances of getting into the class.

Thank you for your consideration! I look forward to hearing from you.  

There you have it—our guide for composing a clear and professional email to a professor.

Good luck, and happy writing!

Hannah is a speculative fiction writer who loves all things strange and surreal. She holds a BA from Yale University and lives in Colorado. When she’s not busy writing, you can find her painting watercolors, playing her ukulele, or hiking in the Rockies. Follow her work on hannahyang.com or on Twitter at @hannahxyang.

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A Polite and Professional Late Assignment Email: Mastering the Art of Writing 

Late assignment submissions can often leave students feeling anxious and unsure about how to address the situation with their professors. Crafting a well-written late assignment email is not just about asking for an extension; it's an art that requires finesse, politeness, and a touch of professionalism. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the strategies and techniques for composing a late assignment email that not only showcases your genuine circumstances but also reflects your commitment to your studies and your respect for your professors. 

By mastering this essential skill, you can navigate late submissions with confidence and maintain a positive academic relationship with your educators. Let's embark on this journey to become adept in the art of writing a professional and polite late assignment email that opens doors to understanding and cooperation.

The Real-Life Dilemma: A Story of Late Submission

Let's begin with a real-life scenario. Meet Sarah, a dedicated student with a passion for learning. She had worked diligently on her assignment but encountered an unexpected family emergency that left her unable to meet the deadline. Panicking, she realized she needed to seek an extension and compose an email that expressed her situation sincerely.

Introducing Sarah: The Diligent Student

Sarah is a committed student, known for her dedication to her studies and her eagerness to excel academically. She had spent weeks working on her latest assignment, pouring her heart and soul into research, analysis, and crafting a well-structured paper. Sarah knew the importance of meeting deadlines, and she had always been punctual in submitting her work.

An Unexpected Family Emergency

Unfortunately, just a few days before the assignment's due date, Sarah's world was shaken by an unforeseen family emergency. A close relative fell seriously ill and required immediate attention and care. The sudden turn of events left Sarah emotionally overwhelmed and consumed by responsibilities beyond her control.

The Race Against Time

In the midst of attending to her family member's needs, Sarah found herself in a race against time to complete her assignment. She desperately tried to balance her academic obligations with her family responsibilities, but the mounting pressure proved too much to handle.

The Realization: Seeking an Extension

As the submission deadline loomed closer, Sarah knew she had to take action. It was evident that she wouldn't be able to submit her assignment on time, no matter how much she wished she could. Instead of succumbing to panic, she made the brave decision to reach out to her professor and seek an extension.

Crafting the Late Assignment Email

Writing the late assignment email was not an easy task for Sarah. She wanted to be honest about her situation without sounding like she was making excuses. Sarah understood the importance of maintaining professionalism and showing genuine respect for her professor's time.

Expressing Sincerity and Transparency

In her email, Sarah expressed her sincerest apologies for the late submission. She made sure to be transparent about her circumstances, mentioning the unexpected family emergency that had arisen and disrupted her ability to complete the assignment on time.

A Humble Request for Extension

While Sarah explained the situation, she also humbly requested an extension for her assignment. She assured her professor that she was fully committed to completing the task as soon as possible and that the extension would allow her to deliver a high-quality piece of work.

Facing Uncertainty with Grace

As Sarah hit the send button, she faced an uncertain outcome with grace and hope. She knew that she had done her best to handle a challenging situation responsibly and professionally.

A Lesson in Resilience

Sarah's real-life dilemma teaches us an invaluable lesson in resilience and the importance of effective communication in academic life. While unforeseen circumstances can disrupt even the most organized plans, addressing such situations with honesty and professionalism can lead to understanding and support from educators.

As we continue our journey to master the art of writing a professional and polite late assignment email, let's draw inspiration from Sarah's story and explore the strategies that can help us navigate similar challenges with grace and confidence.

Example 1: Apologizing for a Personal Emergency

Subject: Late Submission: Research Paper - Personal Emergency

Dear Professor Johnson,

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to sincerely apologize for the late submission of my research paper titled "The Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity." I understand the importance of meeting deadlines and take full responsibility for not submitting it on time.

Unfortunately, I faced an unexpected personal emergency that required my immediate attention and took me away from completing the assignment as planned. I understand that this is not an excuse, and I deeply regret any inconvenience this may have caused you.

I have been working diligently to finalize the paper despite the challenges, and I assure you that I will submit it as soon as possible. I would be extremely grateful if you could grant me an extension until Friday, [Date], to allow me adequate time to complete and deliver a well-researched paper.

Thank you for your understanding and consideration. I value your guidance and feedback, and I am committed to learning from this experience and ensuring it does not happen again in the future.

Once again, I apologize for the delay, and I truly appreciate your support.

Best regards, John Smith [Student ID] [Course Name]

Example 2: Requesting an Extension Due to Technical Difficulties

Subject: Extension Request: Lab Report - Technical Difficulties

Dear Professor Roberts,

I hope this email finds you in good health. I am writing to request an extension for the submission of my lab report titled "Experiment on Enzyme Kinetics." I deeply apologize for the inconvenience caused by the late submission.

Over the past few days, I encountered unexpected technical difficulties with my laptop, which severely hindered my ability to access essential data and complete the analysis required for the lab report. Despite my best efforts to resolve the issue promptly, I am unable to meet the original deadline.

I am committed to producing a comprehensive and well-structured report, and I firmly believe that an extension would allow me to present the findings accurately. Therefore, I kindly request an extension until Monday, [Date], to ensure the submission of a high-quality lab report.

I understand that you have a busy schedule, and I truly appreciate your understanding and consideration. Your guidance has been invaluable throughout the course, and I am determined to apply your feedback to improve my work.

Thank you for your time, and I sincerely apologize once again for the delay. Your understanding will be immensely helpful in managing this challenging situation.

Best regards, Emily Johnson [Student ID] [Course Name]

The Power of Politeness and Empathy

In the world of academia, navigating the challenges of late assignment submissions can be stressful for students. However, in these situations, the use of politeness and empathy can make a significant difference in how professors perceive and respond to such circumstances. Recognizing that professors are human too, with an understanding of life's unpredictable nature, incorporating politeness and empathy into late assignment emails can foster a positive and understanding relationship between students and their instructors.

Acknowledging the Inconvenience

When composing a late assignment email, it is essential to start by acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the delayed submission. Professors often have tight schedules and carefully planned coursework, so a late assignment can disrupt their plans as well. By showing consideration for their time and effort, students demonstrate respect for the professor's responsibilities and commitments.

Understanding the Impact of Your Actions

Beyond acknowledging the inconvenience, it is crucial to convey genuine understanding of the impact of your late submission. Recognize that your actions may have consequences not only for the professor but also for your classmates who adhered to the deadline. Demonstrating awareness of the ripple effects of your actions reflects maturity and accountability, traits highly valued in any learning environment.

The Use of Politeness

The language and tone of your email play a significant role in shaping the professor's perception of your situation. Employing politeness and courtesy in your communication can go a long way in establishing a positive impression. Avoiding accusatory language or excuses and focusing on a respectful and humble tone can set the right tone for a constructive conversation.

The Power of Empathy

Empathy is a powerful tool in building connections and understanding between individuals. In your late assignment email, try to put yourself in the professor's shoes. Consider how they might feel when receiving your explanation and be compassionate in your approach. Expressing empathy towards their busy schedules and workload can create a sense of camaraderie and understanding.

Late assignment emails are opportunities to demonstrate not only responsibility for your actions but also your interpersonal skills. By incorporating politeness and empathy into your communication, you can foster a positive and respectful relationship with your professors. Remember that they, too, are human and understand that life can be unpredictable. 

Subject Line: Short, Sweet, and Informative

Your subject line should be concise yet informative. Professors receive numerous emails daily, so make yours stand out. A subject line like "Late Submission: [Assignment Title]" works well as it clearly conveys the purpose of your email.

The Importance of a Well-Crafted Subject Line

The subject line of your late assignment email is the first thing your professor will see. It acts as the gateway to your message, and its impact can determine whether your email gets noticed and prioritized or lost in the sea of other emails.

Concise Communication

A well-crafted subject line is concise, capturing the essence of your email's content in just a few words. Professors are busy individuals, and they appreciate students who can get to the point efficiently.

Informative and Relevant

Your subject line should clearly indicate that your email is about a late assignment submission. This helps your professor quickly understand the purpose of your communication and what to expect from the email.

Include the Assignment Title

Including the assignment title in the subject line adds specificity and context. It helps your professor identify the particular assignment you are referring to without having to open the email immediately.

Avoid Vague Subject Lines

Steer clear of vague subject lines like "Urgent" or "Important." These do not provide any information about the content and may not catch your professor's attention amid the flurry of other emails they receive.

Using Keywords

Keywords like "Late Submission" are essential as they draw immediate attention to the time-sensitive nature of your email. It signals that action or consideration is required promptly.

Striking the Right Tone

While it's crucial to convey urgency, avoid sounding overly desperate or dramatic in your subject line. Strive for a balance that is both polite and informative.

Examples of Effective Subject Lines

Consider these examples of subject lines that effectively communicate your late assignment submission:

• "Late Submission: [Assignment Title]"
• "Extension Request: [Assignment Title] Due [Original Due Date]"
• "Apologies for Late Assignment: [Assignment Title]"
• "Late Assignment: Unexpected Circumstances [Assignment Title]"

Customizing for Each Email

While the structure of your subject line remains consistent, personalize it for each late assignment email. Include the specific assignment title and any relevant details to make it more relevant to your professor.

Proofread for Accuracy

Before finalizing your subject line, double-check for any spelling errors or inaccuracies. An error-free subject line demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.

Crafting a short, sweet, and informative subject line is a crucial step in mastering the art of writing a professional and polite late assignment email. By capturing the essence of your email's content and clearly indicating its purpose, you increase the likelihood of your professor promptly acknowledging your email and offering the necessary consideration. Now that we understand the significance of a well-crafted subject line, let's move forward and explore the other essential elements that contribute to a successful late assignment email.

Greeting: Show Respect and Address Properly

The way you address your professors in written communication can set the tone for the entire interaction. Showing respect and addressing them properly is not only a matter of etiquette but also an essential aspect of maintaining a professional and positive relationship with your instructors. This article emphasizes the significance of using appropriate titles and last names when greeting your professors and provides guidance on how to do so effectively.

The Importance of Respectful Addressing

Addressing your professors with respect is an integral part of academic culture and demonstrates your understanding of the formalities associated with the learning environment. Professors have worked diligently to earn their titles and deserve to be addressed with the recognition of their achievements and expertise. Showing respect in your communication reflects positively on your character as a student and indicates your seriousness and commitment to the learning process.

Using the Appropriate Title

When composing an email or any written communication to your professor, begin by using the appropriate title followed by their last name. For example, "Dear Professor Smith," is a polite and proper way to initiate your message. If your professor holds a doctorate, you may also use the title "Dr." followed by their last name, such as "Dear Dr. Johnson," if that is their preference.

Why Last Names Matter

Addressing your professor by their last name signifies a level of formality and respect. Using their last name avoids any assumptions about familiarity or informality, which could be perceived as disrespectful. While some professors may informally allow students to use their first names, it is essential to adhere to the standard of using last names until specifically instructed otherwise.

The way you address your professor sets the tone for the entire message. By starting with a polite and respectful greeting, you convey a sense of professionalism and courtesy. This approach is particularly crucial in academic settings, where a respectful tone fosters a positive and constructive relationship between students and their instructors.

Addressing Special Cases

In some instances, a professor may have a specific preference for how they wish to be addressed. They may indicate this preference during the first class session or in their course syllabus. If you are uncertain about how to address your professor, it is acceptable to ask them directly or consult their course materials for guidance.

Properly addressing your professors in written communication is an important aspect of displaying respect and professionalism. Using the appropriate title and last name sets a tone of formality and acknowledges the expertise and hard work of your instructors. 

By adopting a respectful approach from the beginning, you create a positive foundation for communication and contribute to a more productive and respectful academic environment. Remember that demonstrating respect towards your professors is not only a matter of courtesy but also an indication of your commitment to your education and academic success.

Get to the Point: Explain the Situation

In the opening paragraph, get straight to the point. Mention the assignment's title, the original due date, and the reason for your delay. Be honest and direct, but avoid excessive detail. Professors appreciate transparency, but they also have limited time to read emails.

Express Regret and Accountability

In the subsequent paragraph, express regret for the late submission. Take ownership of the mistake without making excuses. Instead of dwelling on the reasons for the delay, focus on your commitment to learning and your dedication to the course.

Provide a Brief Explanation

Offer a concise explanation of the circumstances that led to your late submission. Remember, you don't need to divulge your entire personal life; a brief mention of the relevant issue will suffice. If possible, highlight any efforts you made to complete the assignment despite the challenges you faced.

Request for an Extension

Politely request an extension for your assignment, specifying the new submission date you are proposing. Make sure your requested deadline is realistic and allows you ample time to complete the task without rushing.

Assure Your Efforts and Learning Intentions

Convey your commitment to the course and your desire to learn. Reiterate your dedication to improving your academic performance and ensuring that such late submissions won't be a recurring issue.

Closing: Appreciation and Gratitude

Close your email with a word of appreciation. Thank your professor for their understanding and consideration. A simple "Thank you for your time and attention" is a gracious way to end your email.

Email Signature: Be Professional

In your email signature, include your full name, course number, and any other relevant contact information. It's essential to present yourself as a professional and organized student.

Proofread and Send with Confidence

Before hitting that "Send" button, proofread your email for any errors or typos. A well-written email demonstrates your attention to detail and seriousness about the matter. Once you are confident with the content, send your email and await a response from your professor.

Feel free to use Emailmagic.ai it writes emails just like you!

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Bringing Change with Education

Email to the Professor About the Late Assignment (With Sample)

by William Christie · January 5, 2023

Late assignment mail is written by the student if he/she is late to submit the assignment. It’s a good way to communicate with the professor on any query. Being late to submit the assignment is common and the student feels hesitant to go and talk face to face so email is an easy way to communicate about the late submission. A late assignment email is not normal; it needs to follow certain specifications. Are you late for assignment submission and have to send an email to the Professor about the late Assignment?

Quick Takeaways You must search for the email of the professor to whom you need to send the application.  After that fill out the subject on why you are sending the application.  Once it is done, you will have to fill out the body which mentions why you are sending the email in a short manner. 

However, you must read till the end so that you can get a better understanding of how can you ask for an appointment with the professor.

Table of Contents

Sending an email to the professor about the late Assignment

While in education a student is given a lot of assignments and there arise any problems while doing the assignment. As the student has to follow certain rules and the deadline given by the professor for submitting the assignment. The student fails to submit the assignment before the deadline given by the professor due to various reasons.

Sometimes the problem may be true and sometimes the student forgets to submit the assignment on time.in this case, the student starts to get worried and panic. This must be avoided. If you already know that the assignment can’t be completed in the following days or on the deadline, don’t give up. Also, you must remember that they are busy and may forget to reply to you . Thus you should wait for at least 24 hours for their reply.

Reasons for writing late assignment email

When you are late in submitting the assignment, you must always try to complete it and not miss it. The reason for writing the late assignment email to the professor are as follow:

• The student who is not able to complete the assignment before the deadline is used to email the professor as this is a good manner for submitting the late assignment. The student should inform the professor beforehand that he/she is not able to complete the assignment on time and then submit the assignment. Rather than submitting the assignment without informing the professor.
• If the student is having a health issue or family issue . Need to manage the house will not be able to complete the assignment. Then the student needs to email that they may be not able to submit the assignment as per the deadline issued.

• The student mails the professor to request more time for completing the assignment if he is not able to complete the assignment on time. but the email should include the reason why he/she was not able to finish the assignment as per the issued deadline.
• If the student is not able to finish the assignment on time. he/she should email an apology decently and sincerely which will make the possibility of fewer marks detection or penalties by the professor. You may also take an appointment with the professor so that you can talk to them directly.

Steps for writing a late assignment  email to the professor

Every teacher must accept the late homework or assignment if the reason is genuine. You can also write up an email for missing the exam . Given below are the step on how to write a late assignment email :

• Firstly at the blank after “to” write down the email of the professor. recheck the email written to if it is correct or not.
• The second is to fill the column of the subject and write your details by reading so that the professor can understand how you are.
• The third column is the body part where the student needs to write the reason why he/she was not able to finish the work on time.
• As your professor may talk about you with other professors, you must make sure that you are writing the email to your professor in an extremely respectful manner.

Tips for writing the late assignment email to the professor

Following are the tips for writing up the late assignment email-

• Always try to conclude the email with a brief note . Write a maximum of 5-6 sentences and complete the reason for not submitting the reason. As the professor has not had much time to read it.
• Always recheck whether the email written for the sending is correct or not. Otherwise, the mail will be sent to the wrong person.
• The student needs to write the email sincerely and start it with dear sir/mam.
• Write the personal details correctly so that the professor can identify you.
• If the student is emailing the professor for an extension of the submission date, he/she must include the sentence asking permission to give more time to submit the assignment.
• The student should always first apologize for not being able to submit the assignment on time.
• If you are much known to the professor, don’t try to be friendly in the email.
• The student should conclude the reason, in short, don’t write the email with a long reason as the professor would not like to read long mail as compared to short mail.
• Always try to write the relevant reason behind the late submission of the assignment as if the investigation is done and the student is caught he/she may face some penalties.
• Don’t try to blame the professor or the administration for the reason for late submitting the assignment 

Conclusion:

Writing the email for the late submission of the assignment is a good way to talk to the professor officially without hesitating. The emails written to send are not considered normal mail; it includes all the details of the student and the reason why he/she was not able to submit the assignment on time. So always write the body part using sincere words and communicating gently.

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How to Write an Application to Ask My Professor to Accept a Late Assignment?

Find sample late submission assignment letters here!

Late submission of assignments is something that many college students go through. Emergencies happen, students go through heartbreaks, work and study schedules clash, and student-athletes and artists get busy with their practice. Sometimes, students become tardy. Sometimes, they fall ill. Sometimes, they become careless and forget about an assignment. 

However, most students with genuine reasons for submitting an assignment late manage to get an extension from their professors – as they request it ‘before’ the deadline. Most teachers understand students’ predicaments. If they deem that a student has a valid reason for submitting an assignment late, they grant him or her an extension of 2-7 days.

The problem arises when you delay submitting an assignment even though you have NOT been granted an extension. In such a case, the professor may refuse to accept your assignment and award you an F (fail) grade in the assignment. Or they may accept the assignment and give you penalty marks.

In the age of online assignment submissions, almost 65% of college students submit their assignments at the last minute. And then, there are 10% of students who submit assignments late with predictable excuses like:

My laptop/device developed a technical glitch.

Professors hear these excuses as:

• I have been lazy and failed to do my homework on time.
• I am so tech-tardy that I failed to ask for online assignment help and find a way to do it on time.
• I am so lazy that I couldn’t even find a better and novel excuse for late assignment submission.

At GoAssignmentHelp , we often receive requests from students across the US to write effective and convincing applications for late assignment submissions or how to apologize for a late assignment.

You may also check out:   How To Ask For Assignment Extension With Request Letter Sample?

Different reasons why students submit assignments late (and sample late submission applications)

A study by Megal Nieberding and Andrew F. Heckler published in June 2021 found that students who procrastinate in writing assignments have lower course grades. The study also found that 90% of students do not delay completion of an assignment intentionally, and those who did were two to three times more likely to earn D or E grades.

Another study published by Mehmet Kokoc et al found that students’ online assignment submission behaviour does not change semester after semester. One can predict their end-of-term academic performance depending on their assignment submission behaviour at the beginning of the semester. GoAssignmentHelp’s assignment assistance experts aim to provide appropriate intervention to students on a timely basis.

How to apologize for a late assignment when you forget the submission deadline?

A 2015 research by Keith Gregory and Sue Morgan revealed that if an assignment has a long deadline, more students submit it late. In such cases, students tend to forget when they have to turn in the assignment. If you also forgot to do a task assigned by your professor long ago, you may write the following email for late assignment submission:

Dear [Sir or Ma’am],

I sincerely apologize for the late submission of my assignment [assignment number/topic/question]. I am so sorry for causing you inconvenience and hope that you wouldn’t have to change your schedule when you accept this assignment.

I [fell sick/had to attend my sister’s wedding/broke my leg/or any other excuse] and that’s why my assignment submission got delayed. This is my first mistake and I hope you could excuse me this time. I did not procrastinate intentionally and promise never to submit my assignment late again.

Please accept my assignment along with my heartfelt apology. I am attaching my completed assignment here.

Best Regards,

Attaching a doctor’s prescription to prove that you really had an accident or fell sick, or a signed letter from your parents to prove that you had a family emergency could increase your chances of getting your assignment accepted when you submit it late.

Late submission email to a professor when you have valid academic reasons

Sometimes, students need more time to research a topic some more to analyze it better and to provide a better piece of work. Students who ask teachers time to improve the quality and substance of their writing are rare – and often teachers’ favourites. The chances of their late assignments being accepted are quite high.

Here’s a sample apology email to the professor for late submission because you needed more time for research or analysis:

I am sorry for turning in my [thesis/essay/assignment] on [Topic] late. As I was working on my assignment, I found a few sources [list of sources] which I thought were critical to my research. It took more time than expected to examine them and use them while doing my research.

I understand that I should have approached you earlier to get an extension on the assignment submission deadline but I miscalculated the time I would need to complete my research work and write my assignment. I apologize for not planning my assignment work better but I assure you that I was late only because I wanted to do my best while writing it.

I hope you will be able to review my assignment without much inconvenience. I’ve spent a lot of time on it and am looking forward to your feedback and recommendations on it.

Warm Regards,

You may also want to seek assignment help from our assignment writing service experts to get high-quality answers and academic essays written within time to avoid such a situation.

How to apologize to a professor for a late assignment?

 An apology letter to the professor for late submission must include these three things:

• A Plausible, Believable Excuse:   Experienced professors know all the commonplace excuses students use to get out of tight spots when it comes to submitting assignments on time. But if you give a creative and credible excuse, the chances of it getting accepted increase.
• A Sincere Apology:  Teachers and professors have busy schedules. Apart from giving lectures in class, they have to prepare curriculum, class activities, prepare notes, and go through a pile of assignments, academic essays, dissertations and theses. Assignment submission deadlines are their way to make time to correct your assignment. When you submit an assignment late, you inconvenience them by disturbing their entire schedule. So, they are justified in feeling irritated. Hence, if you submit an assignment late, you owe them a sincere apology.
• A Promise of Being More Cautious in the Future:  You can never take a teacher’s acceptance of your apology for granted. With the late assignment email, you must always include a promise never to repeat that mistake. Remember, such apology letters or emails work their magic only once. If you repeat them too often, they lose their power.

Need help with an application for late submission of assignments?

You can use these samples to officially apologize for submitting assignments late. An apology letter or email also serves as a reminder to the instructor of the date on which you submitted the assignment. Assignment writers on our leading online assignment help platform help students across Canada , including those in Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Vancouver, Quebec City, and more.

Besides these late assignment submission email samples, there are tons of different ways to apologize to the professor for a late assignment. If you are wondering how to write an email for a late assignment that works, get help from GoAssignmentHelp experts.

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Late Assignment Email to Professor

Pursuing education can sometimes be a bit demanding for the students. The need to meet deadlines and at the same time keeping up with the curriculum becomes stressful. There might be some sudden exigencies in personal life or work life that might keep a student from completing an assignment on time. Thus, if you find yourself in a similar situation where meeting a deadline seems next to impossible a question hits you; what do I do? Certainly, panicking is not going to help. The right thing to do is, inform the professor regarding your case and to make an exception by giving you an extension. An email is the best way to communicate with the professor. Here is the example for Late Assignment Email to Professor.

Once you are sure of the fact that you want an extension, you must write to your professor as soon as possible. A late assignment email must be sent from your school ID, it should have a clear subject line. Make sure you start by greeting the professor, properly. The email must be polite in its tone and precisely state the circumstances. You might want to proofread the mail before sending it out. 

The article lets into some tips and examples regarding how to draft an email for late submission of assignments. 

Reasons to Write a Late Assignment Email:

• Inform the Professor: Informing the professor in advance that you will not be able to meet the deadline, rather than submitting it after the date has passed is always a good idea. It shows that you cared about the assignment and tried your best to complete it by the assigned date. 
• Stating the Reason: When an unavoidable emergency comes up, you would want your professor to know about it. The professors do understand that juggling between certain emergencies is beyond a student’s scope. 
• Request to Give an Extension: Once you are aware that you might not be able to complete the assignment on time, you would want the professor to give you an extension. This mail should contain the details regarding your reason for asking to get an extension, the overall progress you have made with the assignment and how much time might be required to complete it. 
• An apology mail: Once you are past your deadline, it is important to draft an email addressing the same. An apology mail is required to be drafted to avoid losing out on your grades. The mail should be sincere and polite to get some leniency from the professor. 

Reasons For Not Submitting On-time:

• Due to some mix up regarding the deadline. 
• Power cutoff in your locality.
• You had some family emergency to attend to. 
• Your laptop was out of order. 
• Needed more time for research.
• A professor wouldn’t trust you if you constantly keep making excuses regarding a submission. To gain the trust of the professor, submit the assignment in the new given time frame. 

How to Draft the Mail?

• Addressing the mail: The mail should be addressed to your professor. If it is required by your school, a copy of the mail can be sent to the head of the department. Address your professor respectfully and with proper name and designation. Make sure you confirm the mail address before sending out the mail. 
• Include a subject: The subject of the mail should be clear. It can be either:
• Apology for late submission.
• Requesting an extension of the deadline. 
• Body of the Mail: Have a clarity regarding the purpose of the email. It is advisable that you get to the point. Keep the explanation simple. It is crucial that you accept your fault and sound sincere while doing so. You can start the mail by giving your introduction and then apologizing. 
• Give a Proper Reason: You need to explain it in simple terms that why you couldn’t submit the assignment on time. The professors will consider your case if you have a genuine reason. Some of the situations where the professors are usually considerate are medical issues, family exigencies, issues in time management due to work commitment, death of someone close, or any unforeseen emergency. The reason has to be stated in a concise manner, without any unnecessary justification. All you got to do is be honest. The reason should be a valid one. 
• Attachment of Certain Documents: The mail becomes more relevant when you substantiate proof of the reason for the delay. If there was a medical condition your family member went through, then you can attach the prescription or reports.
• Conclude: You can apologize again and mention that, you would not want to repeat it in your future. The ending para should give a polite closure. The end of the mail must contain your name with your professional signature and the other relevant details. 

Sample Late Assignment Mails

• Draft 1: Apology Mail for Late Assignment

To: (Insert Professor’s Mail Address)

Subject: Apologizing for the late assignment submission.  (Insert your name and number)

Dear Sir/Ma’am,

I am (Insert your Name), a student of the Department of (Insert subject). I am pursuing (Insert course name). I am aware that the deadline for submitting the assignment has passed. I submitted the assignment two days late and I am apologetic regarding the same. My grandmother fell sick and my parents were out of town. I was not able to attend her at the hospital and also, meet the deadline. I did work hard on my assignment. I don’t want my scores to be affected by this. I would be grateful if you consider my situation. This mistake won’t be repeated. 

Sincere Apologies.

(Insert your name)

(Insert your professional signature)

• Draft 2: Deadline Extension Email

To: (Insert the name of Professor)

Subject: Requesting an extension of the deadline (Insert name and number)

I am (Insert your Name), a student of the Department of (Insert subject). I am pursuing (Insert course name). While writing the assignment article, I came across some major sources of information that can give my article a different direction. I would need some more time to study those and do my best work. I request you to give me an extension of the deadline. I am sorry to have been making this request at the last moment. I promise I would not repeat this again. 

I know I should have been more careful while making my first draft and it’s my fault. But I sincerely request you to grant me this extension. I promise to do my best to submit a quality article. 

Sincere apologies. 

• Draft 3: Late Submission by a Group

To: (Insert the name of the professor)

Subject: Apology for a late submission. 

Dear Sir/Ma’am

I am (Insert your name) writing this on behalf of (Insert group number) who were required to submit the assignment on the topic (Insert topic name). We are aware that the submission date is due tomorrow. The majority of the team members are still waiting for their replies from the experts and we are not being able to draft a conclusion which the information. We request you to give an extension on the deadline. 

We apologize for not keeping such contingencies in our minds. As the group leader, I assure you such mistake would not be repeated again in the future. But we sincerely request you to grant us this extension. We promise to bring out the out best work in the given assignment. 

Sincere apologies.

(Insert group number)

(Insert professional signature)

Tips to Keep in Mind

• Keep it Brief: Beating around the bush should not be your approach while drafting this mail. Respect the limited time a professor has got and be straightforward. The mail should be of around 6-7 sentences. 
• Addressee: Make sure you use the correct email ID of your professor. Also, confirm which authority does your school wants you to send such a mail to. You can look for it in your school syllabus or the official website. 
• Politeness: It is your mistake and, thus you should have a polite tone while drafting this mail to your professor. always use the full name of your professor. Check that the beginning and the ending of your mail is appropriate. 
• Subject Line: The subject should be of one line and it should convey what your email is about. You can add your name, to make it more convenient for your professor. 
• Avoid Being Friendly: Even if you do share a friend like an equation with your professor, the mail should be drafted formally. 
• Be Honest: If truth comes out, it will have heavy consequences. Be honest about the reason for late submission. 
• Limit the Excuses: When there is a notice of the deadline beforehand, the reasons for delay might not matter. Going on and on, focusing on the excuses would make you look lazy.
• Take Responsibility: Avoid putting the blame on the professor or your school in any way. You are the one responsible for not being able to meet the deadline. Accept your own fault. 
• Assurance: The professor needs to know that he is giving you a one-time extension and you would not keep making excuses. Submit the rest of the assignments in time to show the professor that you had genuine reasons back then. 
• Plan B: Sometimes you might ask for an extension and you will not be granted one. It is always better to consider this contingency and have a first draft ready. You wouldn’t want to miss out on your grades. Do not be upset if you don’t get an extension and lose out on some marks. A professor has to take into account all the students and be fair.
• Start Working: Even if you cannot complete the assignment on time, it is always better to start working on it. You will have to submit the assignment to get at least the partial grades. The best you can do is put in efforts to submit your best work.

Missing a deadline definitely might put a student in a lot of trouble. A student would never want to be scored less or not be scored at all for an assignment. Yet it has to be kept in mind that a deadline does have some relevance. It teaches you to be more mindful and responsible. It also prepares you to deal with the world outside the institution in your workplace which would require you to meet deadlines. Don’t lose your heart if you aren’t being able to meet a deadline, you can always genuinely try to convey your reasons to the professor. 

Drafting the apology mail might not be an easy task. It needs to be concise yet sincere. The tone must be professional as well as respectful. You can also try talking to the professor in person before sending him an email. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• How to make the professor accept a late submission?

You must talk to the professor as soon as possible. Make your work exceptionally well and impress the professor with it. Always take responsibility of your mistake. The professor might be considerate if you approach him in good faith with a genuine reason. 

• What can be the consequences of late assignment submission?

At times, if the request is reasonable then the professor can grant an extension. Allowing to submit the assignment on time is in the complete discretion of the professor. For a submission that is inexcusable, as a penalty some marks might be reduced. This penalty in the form of negative marking can keep increasing every 24 hours.

• How to meet a deadline?

Go through the assignment you have got and try to get your best knowledge about it. You can also get some professional help of a tutor to understand the topic assigned to the work that is expected from you. Try not to work on it in the evening, it will make you less productive. 

• Do professors accept an assignment after the deadline?

Some professors might be lenient. They might not charge any penalty if the reason convinces them. Other professors might accept the assignment if it is crucial to the curriculum but charge some penalty and cause reduction from marks. 

Sample Email For Sending Assignment To Professor

• January 11, 2023
• Academic Emails

Communication between professors and students is normal in the educational field. Students are advised to reach out to their professors if they have any academic challenges.

Emails are the preferred means of communication between faculty and students. To facilitate this, most educational institutions provide both faculty and students with professional email addresses.

Students looking to submit assignments and other relevant documents can send them through these emails. To make it easier to send emails to your professor, we’ve also created some templates, that can easily be modified for the purpose.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re sending an assignment on time or you missed the deadline, we’ve put together some great emails to make things easier.

Use Proper Title

Use school email, formal tone, correct grammar, identify yourself, clear and brief, explain your situation, don’t forget attachment, wait patiently, clear subject line, end formally, school website, course syllabus, other students, template 1: assignment submission, template 2: assignment submission, template 3: late assignment submission, template 4: requesting feedback on assignment, template 5: delivering first part of assignment (multiple part assignment), tips for emailing professors.

There’s no need to worry about the content of your email to your professor. Simply follow some basic and professional curtsy to avoid any problems while increasing the chances of a positive response.

You should avoid using informal titles when addressing them. Keep in mind you’re addressing their station and using their official email address.

No one wants their school to think they’re over-friendly with one of their students. School administrators have access to these emails so you should address the professor properly.

Additionally, professors put in a lot of effort to achieve their titles. So, you should address them as such.

If they aren’t yet professors, address them as Dr. if that’s what they are. Addressing a professor as Dr. could end up causing problems.

Students may not consider it a big deal but professors appreciate it when students use the title, they worked their hardest to earn.

Examples: Dear Professor {{ Last name }} Dear Dr. {{ Last name }}

In this age of information, colleges worldwide provide their students with emails they can use to communicate with their peers and faculty. Any communication between faculty and students is expected to pass through these emails.

Students are usually forbidden from contacting professors through their personal email addresses. Not only does this help you the student but it also helps the professor.

The school would be able to moderate any conversation between staff and students and the emails can easily be retrieved in the event of any investigation.

Contacting a professor through their personal emails is a good way to get them into trouble or receive no response from the professor.

They expect work-related emails through their official email addresses. Contacting them through their personal email addresses could end up annoying them.

It doesn’t matter how close you may be to the professor. You should always use a formal tone in your emails. Refrain from using emojis and other slang that are considered informal.

Keep in mind that the professor is not one of your peers. Using formal language is a sign of respect for the professor and their station.

You’re writing to the professor at their formal station. Ensure that you use a formal tone when communicating with them. Additionally, any sign of over-friendliness between students and professors could lead to questions.

No one likes reading bad vocabulary and this includes professors. They expect students at that level of education to have good writing skills, especially when writing simple emails.

To avoid common grammar errors, students can use tools like Grammarly to identify and rectify such mistakes. These tools are completely free and integrate well into your favorite email client.

That said, it’s worth noting that these tools aren’t perfect. So, it’s advisable to go through your writing even after Grammarly corrections have been made to avoid any mistakes.

It doesn’t matter how entitled you may be feeling, you should always be polite in your emails, especially to people in authority. Even if you dislike the professor, you shouldn’t show it in your email.

Try your best to be polite in your email, unless you’re looking for a negative or no response. The professor would most likely skip over your email if your tone isn’t polite.

Don’t give the professor unnecessary work to do. They have busy schedules and the last thing they want to do is spend the next few hours looking through their student list to identify who you are or which class you may be in.

Introduce yourself, your class, and section (if applicable) in your email or add it to the email signature.

Don’t write them an entire essay, it isn’t an assignment. Keep your message as short as you possibly can, while maintaining all necessary formality.

Professors receive emails from different sources daily and wouldn’t have the time to read through your long email. So, it’s advisable to keep your email short and to the point while maintaining a polite tone.

Explain what you need from them as politely as you can. Don’t just demand something from them as if you’re entitled to it. They would simply ignore your email and focus on more pressing matters.

If you’ve already discussed what you need from them earlier, you can politely remind them in a single sentence. You don’t need to remind them of the time you met and everything that occurred.

If you’re submitting an assignment, you should ensure that it’s properly attached. Those things can be quite tricky sometimes.

Can’t remember the number of times I sent an email informing someone of an attachment only to receive a response that I didn’t attach the documents.

Ensure that the assignment is properly attached before you click send on your email. That said, most professors would excuse the mistake so long as the deadline for submission isn’t up.

Don’t send a hundred reminder emails. You can send a reminder after 24 hours, if your email requires them to respond. Otherwise, you should simply wait or you can visit their office within.

Remember that the professor might not view something as urgent in the same way that you do. They can be working on more serious problems than you are.

Therefore, if your request is urgent and you haven’t heard from them, you can go to their office. Sending them a ton of email reminders won’t advance your cause.

It’s okay to send reminders, but you should be mindful about when, how often, and how you do it.

Depending on how urgent your request is, you can send them a reminder if you don’t hear back from them within a day or two.

Don’t wait till the last minute to send your assignment or contact your professor. While it’s advisable to submit your assignments before the deadline, you should still send them even when the deadline is passed.

Don’t wait around wondering whether they’ll accept it or not. Simply forward the document and also include an apology for the late delivery and the reasons in as few sentences as you possibly can.

It doesn’t matter how genuine your reason may be, professors won’t have time to read long excuses. So, try and simplify it for them as much as possible and they may accept your excuse with a warning or a few lost points.

If you want a response, don’t forget to include a subject in your email. Every day, professors get a ton of emails from colleagues, students, and other academic and non-academic sources.

If your email doesn’t have a subject line, it will just be ignored. The subject line can be something like this:

Example: Assignment Submission – {{ Course Title }}

Thank them for reading your email before ending it. If you didn’t provide them in the first paragraph, you can add your complete name, class, and section numbers when you sign off.

Example : Thank you Sincerely {{ Your full name }} {{ Class and Section }}

How To Find Your Professor’s Email

If this is the first time you’re emailing this professor and you don’t have their email address, you can find it by following any of these approaches.

You can locate your professor’s official email address on your school’s website. Most colleges feature faculty pages where you may learn more about specific professors, including their contact information.

You can also look at the course overview page on your learning management system for the professor’s contact details.

The course syllabus is another area where you can find the professor’s professional email address. The course syllabus often includes their contact information as well as attendance policies.

Most likely, you weren’t the only student who occasionally had to email the professor. You can get the professor’s email by asking your friends. You’ll probably get some advice on how to look for the email if none of them have it.

Sample Email For Sending Assignment to Professor

Email Subject  Assignment Submission – {{ Full name }}

Email Subject  {{ Assignment/Class name }} – Assignment Submission

Email Subject  Late Assignment Submission – {{ Your name}}

Email Subject  {{ Assignment/Class name }} – Assignment Submission and Feedback Request

Email Subject  {{ Assignment/Class name }} Assignment Submission – Part {{ Number }}

Hi there and welcome to UnitWriter. My name's Chris, an expert in crafting effective email templates for all occasions. I created this blog to share my knowledge, by offering tips and templates to help get you started on your emails. Hope it's been helpful

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Put in the effort: 6 etiquette tips for turning in a late assignment

At the beginning of the semester students receive a syllabus from every professor with all the assignment due dates. If students are proactive, they should set up a calendar and reminder system for every class. Then it becomes up to the student to use effective time management skills to turn everything in on time.

However, that doesn't always happen. When a student can't make a deadline, it's always worth contacting the professor to see if the assignment can still be submitted for a grade. Even if it isn't accepted for full credit, it's still advisable to put in the effort to get as many points as possible and to show the professor that the extension is appreciated.

There are other tips involved when turning in a late assignment, which include:

1. Talk to the professor as early as possible. This shows that you are not waiting until the last minute and have at least put some thought into your work. If there is a legitimate excuse, professors appreciate the advance notice and the open communication.

2. Keep excuses to a minimum. Not to be harsh, but sometimes the excuse doesn't matter because there was such advanced notice about the deadline. Oftentimes, excuses just make the student look lazy even if that may not be the case at all.

3. Take personal responsibility. Professors appreciate the acknowledgement that deadlines were announced in advance. Also, taking personal responsibility shows a maturity level and an ownership of your actions.

4. Turn in quality work. Especially if a professor granted an extension, make sure the extra time was used to put effort into the assignment. Also, professors definitely take note of which students care about the work they submit.

5. Don't get upset if points are taken off. Professors have to be fair to the students who did turn their work in on time. Also, late work policies are often stated in the syllabus so there is no confusion about grading.

6. Assure the professor that this won't happen again and follow through. Actions speak louder than words. Show the professor that you care about the class by turning the remaining assignments in on time.

Jorie Scholnik currently works as an assistant professor at Santa Fe College in Gainesville, Fla., where she teaches career classes and leads an etiquette club. She has also been working as an etiquette associate under the direction of Jacqueline Whitmore at The Protocol School of Palm Beach for the past six years. She earned her master’s degree and undergraduate degrees from the University of Florida. For business inquiries, you can contact Jorie Scholnik through The Protocol School of Palm Beach at [email protected]. You can follow her on Twitter .

This story originally appeared on the USA TODAY College blog, a news source produced for college students by student journalists. The blog closed in September of 2017.

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

How to Ask a Professor for an Extension + Example Emails

May 10, 2023

So, you want to learn how to ask a professor for an extension, but you’re afraid of sounding like a slacker, or of getting on your professor’s bad side. Luckily, we have some dos and don’ts that should cover your questions. The first one is simple: please do not, under any circumstances, use the example below as a template.

This Is Not How to Ask for an Extension on an Assignment

Dear Professor S.,

I’m so so sorry but I won’t be able to turn in the final assignment on time. There’s an issue going on in my dorm room and it’s really, truly and utterly gross (I won’t go into the details). I’ll make sure to get the assignment to you soon. Please know that I’m really bummed to be doing this, because your course really was my favorite course this semester.

While Charles wrote his email in earnest, he made multiple gaffes that only added more awkwardness to an already confusing request. (In fact, Charles forgot to phrase his request as a question!) Yet asking for extra time should not become an additional crisis on top of other stress. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to ask for an extension on an assignment.

What’s Your Excuse?

Turning in an assignment late can cause anxiety for students. Many fear getting points docked or a lower final grade. Some view it as doing something “wrong” and end up feeling preemptively guilty or undeserving of the extra time. These anxious feelings can manifest in the request itself. (Just look at Charles’s overly effusive apology.) However, a lot of valid reasons for an extension exist. The first successful step in how to ask a professor for an extension requires clarifying your situation.

Let’s say you have a funeral to attend, you fall sick, or, as was Charles’s case, you discover a bedbug infestation. All of these reasons qualify as unexpected crises you couldn’t plan for. In urgent circumstances like these, professors tend to take an accommodating stance for last-minute requests. They have lives outside of academics too, and know how the real world can intervene.

Less urgent circumstances that require you to know how to ask for an extension might involve a conflict of deadlines in different classes, or a wedding to attend. To increase your chances, make your request as far ahead as possible, as soon as you learn of the conflict.

Professors may not accommodate every request, especially if the student simply procrastinated. But whatever your circumstances, do give your professor the real reason. Honesty always comes across as most genuine and requires fewer justifications. Plus, treating the situation in a mature manner will result in the professor responding in kind, and taking your request more seriously.

How to Ask for an Extension on an Assignment to Improve Your Work

A less typical, last-minute, yet non-urgent request can arise when students find they don’t understand how to accomplish the assignment. Similarly, they may find they aren’t satisfied with the quality or direction of their work. Asking for more time to improve your work can sound reasonable to a professor. The trick here involves specifying exactly why you need more time and what you wish to improve. Consider asking for suggestions as well before going forward. Most professors prefer grading a student’s best effort rather than a sloppy, punctual paper, and will be willing to help those who show enthusiasm for their subject.

Act Accordingly

With the various types of impediments and conflicts identified, let’s consider the best approaches for how to ask for an extension. If in doubt, and especially in an emergency, send an email. When emailing, include these three vital pieces of information:

1) Explain the situation you’re facing.

2) Suggest a specific alternative deadline. This date should be reasonable, both in terms of reorganizing your own schedule, and with respect to the teacher’s semester. Avoid an overly-optimistic deadline; you won’t impress your teacher if you’re forced to ask for an extended extension.

3) Ask about the teacher’s late policy, if you don’t know it already. If this information is included in the course syllabus, acknowledge the late policy in writing. Perhaps your teacher docks points regardless, in which case, you’ll want to know how many for each day the assignment is late. You may need to weigh your priorities, and decide which to sacrifice, promptness or quality.

How to Ask a Professor for an Extension During Office Hours

If you’re trying to juggle multiple courses’ assignments, or want an extension with more guidance, send a preliminary email asking to meet with your professor. Do email first, because waylaying your professor after class can stress everyone out. Once a meeting is scheduled, the face-to-face chat may prove more successful, simply because it’s harder to say no in person. This meeting also gives your professor a chance to put a face to a name, and will give you a chance to say something about what you’re working on. Extra guidance like new leads and library references may also speed up your progress.

Putting the How in How to Ask a Professor for an Extension

Let’s return to Charles’ email, and imagine how his professor might react. Reading about a “really, truly and utterly gross,” mystery situation doesn’t give the professor any idea of the student’s trouble, nor of how severe it is, or how long it will last. The professor has no incentive to act leniently, and no opportunity to sympathize. If anything, the vague description evokes confusion, pity, and doubt.

Imagine instead that Charles wrote, “I just discovered a bedbug infestation in my dorm room. According to pest control, I’ll need to spend the weekend bagging up my possessions before an exterminator arrives. Then I’ll have to find a different place to sleep and study for the coming week.” Here Charles goes into enough detail to delineate the situation. It becomes clear that a bedbug infestation is time consuming, as well as psychologically and physically taxing. Though unusual, Charles’ reason for wanting an extension now sounds perfectly legitimate.

You can avoid Charles’s main mistake by articulating your situation clearly and concisely. With a big emphasis on concisely. If you’re going to a funeral, you don’t need to convince your teacher that you loved your grandmother. If you’re sick, you don’t need to list your symptoms. A brief email saves your harried professor some time, and gives students practice in establishing their own personal boundaries. Overall, a brief email will sound professional and sincere.

Another must when learning how to ask a professor for an extension involves tone. The right register will come across as respectful and somewhat formal. Change phrases like “I’m really bummed” to “I regret.” Apologize, but don’t overdo it. One apology appropriately recognizes the inconvenience the professor may experience.

How to Ask a Professor for an Extension, Example 1

Now let’s take a look at Charles’ improved urgent request.

Dear Professor Sassin,

I’m Charles Yu, from your Modern Architecture seminar. I’m writing to let you know about a situation that’s come up. I just discovered a bedbug infestation in my dorm room. According to pest control, I’ll need to spend the weekend bagging up my possessions before an exterminator arrives. Then I’ll have to find a different place to sleep and study for the coming week.

Because of this, I’m afraid I won’t have time to work on the final assignment until next week. Would you consider a one-week extension, with a new deadline on May 25? If so, please let me know how this extension might affect my grade.

I apologize in advance for the inconvenience, and am open to other suggestions you may have.

Best regards,  

In his amended version, Charles makes it clear why his particular situation requires more time. He asks for (rather than dictates) an extension, and shows that he’s both concerned about his grade and happy to consider an alternative plan. The writing sounds polite, clear, and formal—a complete reversal from the previous chaotic and informal tone. Charles’s chances look good.

How to Ask a Professor for an Extension, Example 2

In the following example represents a less typical situation. Time is of the essence, but the situation itself cannot be called urgent.

Dear Professor Napier,

I’ve been hard at work on my research essay for your class, the English Romantic Novel. Initially, my plan involved comparing early Gothic novels, analyzing recurring motifs, and rooting them in British culture of the time. However, the more I’ve read, the more I’ve realized that my interest lies in the parodies of Gothic novels, particularly in the works of Wilde and Austen, and in the significance we might pull from the distortions they make.

I believe I could write a more compelling paper on this subject, but the deadline is fast approaching. I won’t have enough time to refocus the research and finish writing by Friday. Would you mind if I turned the paper in next Tuesday, October 3, instead? I understand that your late policy is strict. However, I think this new theme may inform my senior thesis, so I wonder if an exception can be made.

I’m happy to meet and discuss during your office hours tomorrow. Please let me know at your earliest convenience.

Tatiana Gorns

Here, Tatiana takes a risk. She knows her situation won’t seem urgent, but she appeals to her professor’s academic side. To do so, Tatiana must expand. The email is not concise, nor is it fluffy. Her investment in the assignment appears genuine. Furthermore, she explains the stakes, that this extension could positively affect her future course of study. This appeal will be hard for most professors to turn down.

How to ask for an extension – Additional Resources

If you’re looking for more advice on how to navigate the college work-life balance, how to better communicate, and other college know-how, you may find the following links to be of interest:

• Communicating with Professors: Ten Practical Suggestions
• What Does it Mean to Audit a Class in College?
• Best Gap Year Programs – 2023
• The College Transitions Dataverse
• College Success

Kaylen Baker

With a BA in Literary Studies from Middlebury College, an MFA in Fiction from Columbia University, and a Master’s in Translation from Université Paris 8 Vincennes-Saint-Denis, Kaylen has been working with students on their writing for over five years. Previously, Kaylen taught a fiction course for high school students as part of Columbia Artists/Teachers, and served as an English Language Assistant for the French National Department of Education. Kaylen is an experienced writer/translator whose work has been featured in Los Angeles Review, Hybrid, San Francisco Bay Guardian, France Today, and Honolulu Weekly, among others.

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Home » Letters » School » Apology Letter to Teacher for Late Submission of Assignment in School – Sample Apology for Assignment Late Submission

Apology Letter to Teacher for Late Submission of Assignment in School – Sample Apology for Assignment Late Submission

To, The Class Teacher, _________ (Name of the Teacher) _________ (Name of the School), _________ (Address of School)

Date: __/__/____ (Date)

Subject: Apology for late submission of assignment for _________ (Student Name)

Respectfully, I am _________ (Name of the Student) a student of class ________ (Class) having roll number _________ (Roll Number).

Through this letter, I apologize to inform you that I have delayed the submission of ________ (mention assignment name) and the reason behind the same is _________ (not well/ ill health/ was absent/any other) and due to which I failed to deposit the assignment for the subject on the required date i.e. __/__/_____ (date). I ensure that the mentioned assignment would be submitted by __/__/____ (Date), and I ensure that there would be no more delays.

I request you to kindly accept my genuine apology for the delay in the submission of the same.

Thanking you Yours Faithfully/Sincerely, __________ (Name), __________ (Signature), __________ (Roll Number)

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Request Email for Sick Leave – How to write an Sick Leave Email

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