Grief Absences

We understand that a time of loss can be difficult for a student. To request an absence notification for the loss of a loved one, submit an online absence notification request by selecting “Grief Absence” from the dropdown list and submitting required documentation. 

  • For the death of a loved one
  • Provide required documents (e.g., obituary, funeral program, announcement, or death certificate)
  • Processing time: up to 5 business days
  • Duration varies based on relationship and travel needs

Required Documentation includes a copy of the obituary (or weblink), the funeral announcement, or a death certificate with a funeral program. Consideration for the specific number of days related to an absence following the death of a loved one may vary based on the relationship and travel considerations.

Consideration for the specific number of days related to an absence following the death of a loved one may vary based on the relationship and travel considerations. Considerations may include the following parameters as a guide.

Immediate Family: Consider five (5) to ten (10) days of absence over a two-week period, of the semester in which the death of a spouse, parent, child, grandparent, grandchild or sibling, or a corresponding in-law or step-relative occurs.  Students should work with each faculty on a reasonable plan.  

Other Relationships: Consider three (3) to five (5) days of absence over a two-week period during the semester in which the death occurs involving a relative or friend falling outside of the category of immediate family. Students should work with each faculty member on a reasonable plan.  

In circumstances where a bereaved student needs an extended grief absence, consider if a withdrawal for the semester may better meet your needs. To explore a withdrawal, review the steps on the Registrar’s website, the academic calendar and when appropriate, discuss the fee appeal adjustment process.  

In cases of impending death, students should contact the instructor as soon as possible by e-mail, phone, or by contacting the main office of the department that offers the course. When the student is unable to make direct contact with the instructor and is unable to leave word with the instructor’s department because of circumstances beyond the student’s control, the student or the student’s representative should contact the Office of the Dean of Students at dos@mst.edu to further discuss the situation and student needs.

Travel Considerations: The following guide can be used to consider additional absence time to account for travel considerations based on the distance of the bereavement services from campus, as follows:

    • Within 150-mile radius - no additional absence days
    • Between 150–300-mile radius - one additional absence days
    • Beyond 300-mile radius - two additional absence days
    • Outside the contiguous United States - four additional absence days.
      • International students are required to submit an International Travel Authorization form through the ISSS portal for any international travel. 

Student Absence Request Procedure                                                                   

View Student Absence Request Flowchart

Step 1: Determine Eligibility
  • Absence is for three or more consecutive days.
  • Falls under one of the five extenuating circumstance categories listed above.
Step 2: Submit Request
Step 3: Dean of Students Review Process
  • Review typically takes 3 to 5 business days.
    • 15 or more business days may be required for complex cases or when additional documentation is necessary.
    • Requests submitted without the required documentation may be denied. 
  • Health-related requests take additional time for review by Student Health Services.
  • The student will receive either a copy of the absence notification or will be informed if notification cannot be issued.
Step 4: Communicate with Faculty
  • It is the student's responsibility to contact each instructor as soon as possible to discuss managing your absence and options for missed coursework.
  • Instructor decisions regarding attendance, make-up work, or missed exams remain at their discretion unless legally mandated, or they prefer to rely on the Dean of Students Office to make the determination.
Step 5: Additional Support
  • Student Rights:
    • Expect privacy to be respected in accordance with FERPA.
    • Access educational and support resources.

  • Student Responsibilities:
    • Review course syllabi, attendance, and grading policies.
    • Communicate directly with instructors regarding absences.
    • International students are required to submit an International Travel Authorization form through the ISSS portal for any international travel.
Absence Notice

For defined extenuating circumstances with the required documentation.

Request a Notice