Have you ever found yourself unexpectedly sick and unable to attend a class or meeting? It’s never fun having to miss something important, but sometimes it’s necessary for our health and wellbeing. As a student, notifying your professor of your sick absence can be nerve-wracking, but it’s important to do so in a timely and professional manner.
As luck would have it, we’ve gathered a few sick absence email examples to help make the process a little easier for you. You can use these templates as a starting point and tailor them to fit your specific situation. Whether you need to miss a single class or an entire week, these examples will help you draft an email that is both concise and polite.
At the end of the day, it’s important to focus on your health and well-being. Your professors will appreciate the courtesy of being notified of your absence, and it can also help prevent any confusion or missed assignments down the line. So, take a deep breath and use these email examples as a guide to help you get that email sent off with ease.
The Best Structure for a Sick Absence Email to Your Professor
If you’re ever too ill to make it to a lecture or seminar, it’s important to let your professor know as soon as possible. However, composing a sick absence email to your professor can be daunting – especially when you’re not feeling your best. To make sure your email is clear, concise, and professional, here’s a recommended structure you can follow.
Opening Greeting
Begin by addressing your professor correctly. If you’re on first name basis with your professor, go ahead and use their first name. If you’re not sure how to address your professor, stick to their surname.
Opening Sentence
Get straight to the point. Begin your email by stating that you won’t be able to attend class due to an illness. Be brief in explaining the reason. Your professor doesn’t need to know all the gnarly details of your ailment.
Body Paragraph
After opening, the body paragraph provides you with a chance to confirm your absence and to mention how long you expect to be away from class. Give your professor your best estimate as to when you’ll be able to return to class. It’s also a positive gesture to express regret for not being able to attend class. Something along the lines of “I’m sorry for missing class” or “I wish I was able to attend, but my health comes first” will do.
Closing Greeting
End your email with an appropriate closing. If you are unsure about the formality, keep it formal by adding a closing such as “Sincerely,” or “Best regards,” followed by your name. This solidifies a professional impression and lets your professor know that you understand the importance of etiquette.
Following Up
After a few days, follow-up with your professor to see what you missed and if there is anything you need to catch up on. Don’t assume that your professor will necessarily reach out to you. Your professor will most likely appreciate your proactive approach.
By using this structure, you’ll be able to compose a well-written, professional email that clearly communicates your absence. This will let your professor know that you’re a responsible student who takes their studies seriously – even when you’re sick.
Sick Absence Email to Professor Samples
Flu
Dear Professor,
I am writing to inform you that I will not be able to attend classes for the next two days due to the flu. I have been experiencing severe body aches, fever, and a persistent cough and I have been advised by my doctor to take adequate rest at home to recover completely.
I apologize for the inconvenience caused and I will make sure to catch up on any missed assignments and class notes as soon as I return.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Migraine
Dear Professor,
I regret to inform you that I won’t be able to attend today’s class due to a severe migraine. I have been experiencing a throbbing headache, sensitivity to light, and nausea since yesterday, and I am not in a condition to attend classes without medication.
I understand that this class is critical, and I am willing to take any additional coursework or assignments that I might have missed as a result of my absence.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Food Poisoning
Dear Professor,
I am writing to let you know that I won’t be able to attend classes today due to severe food poisoning. I have been suffering from severe stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea since last night, and I am currently under observation by a doctor.
I promise to make up for the missed classwork by following up with my classmates for the assignments, and I am committed to attending all future classes.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Chronic Back Pain
Dear Professor,
I regret to inform you that I am unable to attend classes for the next few days due to chronic back pain. I have been experiencing excruciating pain in my lower back, which is making it challenging for me to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
I promise to make up for the missed coursework and assignments by putting extra effort into self-study and attending all future classes.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Strep Throat
Dear Professor,
I am writing to inform you that I won’t be able to attend classes for the next two days due to strep throat. I have been experiencing severe throat pain, fever, and fatigue, and I have been advised by a doctor to take bed rest and complete the course of antibiotics.
I apologize for any inconvenience caused, and I will make sure to catch up on any missed coursework and assignments as soon as possible.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Common Cold
Dear Professor,
I am writing to apologize for my absence from today’s classes due to a common cold. I have been experiencing a runny nose, sore throat, and fever since yesterday, and I found it extremely challenging to concentrate and participate in the class.
I acknowledge the importance of attending classes and ensuring attendance, and I promise to make up for the missed coursework and assignments by following up with my classmates.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Food Allergy
Dear Professor,
I am writing to apologize for my absence from today’s classes due to a severe allergic reaction to a specific food component. I have been experiencing hives, itching, and a swollen throat, and I had to rush to the emergency room.
I understand the importance of every class and the significance of attendance, and I promise to make up for any missed coursework and assignments as soon as possible.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Sick Absence Email to Your Professor
If you’re feeling under the weather or dealing with a medical issue, it’s important to communicate with your professor as soon as possible. Writing a sick absence email can be nerve-wracking, but it’s important to be clear, concise, and professional. Here are some tips to help you write a successful email:
- Be clear about your absence: Let your professor know exactly why you’re unable to attend class. Be specific about your symptoms or medical issue. This will help your professor get a better understanding of your situation and determine how best to support you.
- Explain your plan to catch up: If you’re missing an important class, assignment, or exam, it’s important to let your professor know that you plan to catch up on the work. Let them know when you’ll be back in class and when you plan to complete any missed assignments.
- Be professional and respectful: Even if you’re feeling frustrated or stressed about your situation, it’s important to remain professional and respectful in your email. Use a formal greeting and sign off with a polite message of gratitude.
- Provide documentation if necessary: If you’re missing multiple classes or an important exam, your professor may ask for documentation from a healthcare provider. Have this documentation prepared and ready to send if your professor requests it.
- Follow up with your professor: After you’ve sent your email, follow up with your professor to make sure they received your message and to confirm any next steps. This will show that you’re taking your absence seriously and are committed to staying on top of your work.
Remember, your professor is there to support you and help you succeed. By communicating clearly and professionally, you can ensure that your sick absence is handled in a way that’s fair and respectful to everyone involved.
FAQs related to sick absence email to professor
What should I include in my sick absence email?
You should include the reason for your absence and how long you will be absent for. It’s also important to express your willingness to catch up on any missed coursework or assignments.
Do I need to provide proof of illness?
It’s not always necessary, but it’s advisable to provide a doctor’s note or any other medical documentation to support your claim.
How early should I inform my professor about my sick absence?
You should inform your professor as soon as possible, ideally before the class is scheduled to start.
What should I do if I miss an exam or assignment due to my sick absence?
You should contact your professor immediately to explain the situation and request any necessary accommodations or make-up arrangements.
How should I address my professor in the sick absence email?
You should address your professor with respect and professionalism, using appropriate salutations and titles (e.g. “Dear Professor Smith”).
Can I request extra time to complete coursework due to my sick absence?
Yes, you can request accommodations such as extra time or extensions for assignments due to your absence, but it’s up to your professor to decide whether or not to grant them.
What if I don’t have a good reason for my absence?
It’s always best to be honest. If you don’t have a good reason for your absence, simply explain that you were unable to attend due to personal reasons or unforeseen circumstances.
Should I communicate with my classmates regarding my sick absence?
It’s not necessary, but it’s courteous to inform your classmates of your absence if you’re working on a group project or team assignment.
What should I do if my sick absence is due to mental health concerns?
You should approach the situation with the same professionalism as any physical illness absence and provide any necessary medical documentation. Make sure to discuss any accommodations you may need with your professor or university’s disability services if applicable.
What if I’m unsure if I’m too sick to attend class?
If you’re unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and stay home. Contact your professor as soon as possible to let them know about your absence.
Happy healing!
Now that you have a sample email template to use when you need to take sick absence from class, sending an email to your professor will be a breeze! Don’t forget to attach any necessary medical documentation and communicate any follow-up plans to catch up with missed work. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back soon for more helpful tips and tricks!