Sick Absence Email to Professor Sample: How to Write and When to Use It

You wake up feeling terrible. You have a pounding headache, a sore throat, and a fever. You know you can hardly make it out of bed, let alone go to class. You need to contact your professor, but you’re unsure of what to say.

That’s where I come in. In this article, I’ll provide you with a sick absence email to professor sample. I understand that drafting an email to your professor can be a daunting task, especially when you’re feeling sick. But fear not! With some guidance, you’ll be able to compose an email that is respectful and informative.

Not only will I provide you with an email template, but I will also give you some tips on what to say and what not to say. I want to ensure that your email accurately reflects your illness, but also demonstrates your commitment to your studies.

Additionally, I recognize that every situation is unique, so I will offer some alternative examples that you can edit as needed. So, whether you have the flu, a cold, or a migraine, you’ll be able to tailor your email to your specific situation.

Let’s get started with the first sample email.

The Best Structure for a Sick Absence Email to Your Professor

When you’re dealing with illness or other personal issues, it can be difficult to manage your academic work and responsibilities. Sometimes it may not be possible to attend class or complete assignments on time. In such cases, it’s crucial to keep your professors informed about your absences and the reason behind it. Writing a sick absence email to your professor is a professional way to communicate your situation, but what is the best structure to follow? Let’s dive into the details below.

1. Be honest and concise

Begin by stating the purpose of your email clearly and concisely. It’s essential to disclose the reason why you won’t be able to attend class or complete assignments on time. Being honest and transparent with your professor is the best approach. There’s no need to get into excessive details or provide any unnecessary information. Simply state that you are ill or experiencing personal issues, and can’t attend the class or complete the assignment on time.

2. Offer an apology

Show respect and consideration for your professor by offering an apology for your absence. Remember that your professor has a schedule to adhere to as well and disruptions can be frustrating. Expressing your regret for missing the class or deadline due to illness or personal issues can go a long way toward rebuilding your professor’s trust in your dedication to the course and your academic career.

3. Request for assistance (if needed)

It’s often suitable to request assistance if you need support in catching up on the materials you missed in class or extensions for completing assignments. Your professor could offer additional help or refer you to campus resources that could be of assistance to you. Be authentic in your request and only ask for assistance if it’s needed. Remember, professors are busy, and you don’t want to waste their time unnecessarily.

4. Close the email professionally

End your email with a professional courteous closing statement, for example, thanking the professor for their understanding and patience. Ensure that you include your name and contact information so that your professor can reach out to you if needed. Always sign the email properly with your full name and student ID to provide more information.

Conclusion

Communicating transparently with your professors about absences due to illness or personal issues is vital. By following the above structure when writing a sick absence email to your professor, you will communicate your situation to the professor professionally and respectfully, and hopefully maintain a good rapport throughout the semester.

Sick Absence Emails to Professors

Flu absence

Dear Professor,

I am writing to inform you that I will be absent from class for the next three days due to being diagnosed with the flu. I feel extremely weak and fatigued, and I am afraid I will not be able to attend lectures. I understand the importance of attendance and learning in class, and I promise I will make up for any missed work as quickly as possible.

Thank you for your understanding. I look forward to being back in class soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Stomach ache absence

Dear Professor,

Unfortunately, I have to miss your class today due to a severe stomach ache. It is quite difficult for me to concentrate on anything right now, making it impossible to attend the lecture. I assure you that I will catch up on any missed work and come better prepared for next lecture.

I apologize for the inconvenience caused and thank you for understanding my situation.

Best,

[Your Name]

High Fever absence

Dear Professor,

I am writing to inform you that I am unable to attend class today due to a high fever and fatigue. I understand the importance of attending lectures, but I fear my condition might worsen if I do not take a few days off to rest and recuperate. I promise to make up for missed work and catch up with the class as soon as possible.

Thank you for your kind understanding and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Migraine absence

Dear Professor,

I am writing to inform you that I am unable to attend class today due to an intense migraine. I feel quite unwell and unable to concentrate on lectures, and I fear it might worsen if I come to class. I will make sure to catch up on any missed work and attend the next lecture fully prepared.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Injury absence

Dear Professor,

I am writing to inform you that I will not be able to attend class for the next few days due to a sprained ankle. I am in quite a bit of pain, making it quite difficult to attend lectures and carry out basic tasks. I will get a doctor’s note and make up for any missed work as soon as possible.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Best,

[Your Name]

Allergy absence

Dear Professor,

Unfortunately, my allergies have worsened, and as a result, I am unable to attend today’s class. I feel quite unwell, with severe itching and sneezing, making it impossible to concentrate on lectures. I promise to catch up with the missed work and attend the next lecture fully prepared and informed.

Thank you for your support and understanding during this time.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Mental Health absence

Dear Professor,

Unfortunately, I am writing to inform you that I am unable to attend today’s lecture due to my mental health. I have been struggling to cope with anxiety lately, and the symptoms have increasingly worsened, making it quite difficult for me to carry out daily tasks, let alone attend lectures. I have made an appointment with a therapist, and I will contact the student counselor to discuss the options available.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Sick Absence Email to Your Professor

Getting sick during the school year can be a real hassle, especially if you have to miss class and assignments. In such a situation, it is always better to inform your professor of your absence rather than absenting yourself without any notice. Writing a sick absence email is the best way to inform your professor of your condition and let them know you won’t make it to class. Here are some tips on writing the perfect sick absence email to your professor:

  • Be courteous: The tone and language of your email should be courteous and professional. Address your professor respectfully and convey your apologies for missing class.
  • Be truthful: It is essential to include accurate information about your condition. Be honest about the severity of your illness and the duration of your absence. However, avoid going into too much detail about your symptoms.
  • Be concise: Keep your email brief and to the point. Your professor doesn’t need to know every detail about your illness. State the reason for your absence, the expected duration of your absence, and any assignments or deadlines you will miss.
  • Provide proof: If necessary, provide your professor with proof of your illness, like a doctor’s note or an appointment card from the clinic, to avoid any misunderstandings.
  • Follow up: Once you’ve sent your sick absence email, make sure to follow up with your professor after you have recovered. Ask for any class notes or assignments you may have missed and arrange to make up any tests or exams you may have missed.

Overall, writing a sick absence email is not that different from sending any other email to your professor. However, you must ensure that your email is courteous, truthful, and concise and provides the necessary details to explain your absence. Remember to keep your professor informed throughout your absence so that you can catch up on any missed work as soon as possible.

FAQs Related to Sick Absence Email to Professor Sample

What should I include in my sick absence email to my professor?

In your sick absence email to your professor, you should mention the reason for your absence, the date of your sickness, and your expected duration of absence.

Is it necessary to attach supporting documents to my sick absence email?

If your professor asks for supporting documents, it’s better to attach them, but it’s not always required. Make sure to keep backup documents if he/she asks for them later.

Is sending a sick absence email enough?

Sending a sick absence email is the first step in informing your professor about your absence from class due to sickness, but it’s better to check if they require any additional information such as notes, assignments, etc., to be submitted after your return.

How quickly do I need to send my sick absence email to my professor?

You should send your sick absence email to your professor as soon as possible, preferably before the start of your class. It allows them to plan their lessons and schedules properly.

What should I do if I miss a test/exam because of sickness?

If you miss a test/exam due to sickness, inform your professor immediately about your absence and submit supporting documentation if required. Check with them if they provide a make-up test, exam or other options.

What happens if I don’t inform my professor about my absence due to sickness?

If you don’t inform your professor about your absence from class due to sickness, you may miss out on important course content and miscommunicate about your reason for absence. It is always better to keep your professor informed beforehand.

What if I need further assistance due to my sickness?

If you need further assistance or support due to sickness, you can reach out to your university/college’s health services center, counselors, or wellness centers for help and support.

Stay Healthy and Keep Learning!

Thank you for reading through this article about a sample sick absence email to a professor. We hope that you found this informative and helpful for those unexpected times when you’re unable to attend a class. Remember to always be honest, professional, and apologetic in your email. The best thing to do is to communicate with your professor as soon as possible and let them know of your situation. We wish you all the best in your studies, so stay healthy and keep learning! Don’t forget to visit us again for more useful tips to help make your academic life easier.