Calgary Student Sick Note Guide: Every Institution Covered
Missed an exam or deadline due to illness? Each Calgary post-secondary institution has different documentation requirements. Here's your complete guide.
University of Calgary
Policy: U of C uses a Student Declaration of Absence for short absences (up to 3 days). For longer absences or final exams, you need a medical note from a physician.
Key details:
- Self-declaration covers absences up to 3 consecutive days
- Medical note required for absences longer than 3 days
- Medical note required for missed final exams (always)
- Submit through your faculty's Student Success Centre
- Deadline: Usually within 2 business days of the missed assessment
What the note must include:
- Confirmation of medical condition (not diagnosis)
- Dates of incapacity
- Physician's signature and registration number
- Statement that you were unable to attend/complete academic work
Where to submit: Faculty-specific — check your faculty's website or Student Success Centre
Mount Royal University (MRU)
Policy: MRU requires a medical certificate for missed exams and major assignments.
Key details:
- Medical note required for any missed exam
- For assignments, check your course outline — some professors accept self-declaration for short extensions
- Submit to your professor AND the Registrar's Office
- Deadline: Within 3 days of the missed assessment
MRU-specific tip: MRU's Student Wellness Services can sometimes provide documentation, but wait times can be 1-2 weeks. An online note is faster.
SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology)
Policy: SAIT requires medical documentation for missed evaluations.
Key details:
- Medical note required for missed exams and labs
- Labs are especially strict — many cannot be rescheduled without documentation
- Submit to your program's Academic Chair
- Deadline: Within 24-48 hours of the missed evaluation (strict!)
SAIT-specific tip: SAIT's compressed schedule means missing even one lab can put you behind. Get documentation immediately — don't wait.
Bow Valley College
Policy: Bow Valley requires a medical note for absences affecting graded work.
Key details:
- Medical note for missed exams
- Attendance-based programs (healthcare, trades) may require notes for any absence
- Submit to your instructor and Student Services
- International students: additional documentation may be needed for visa compliance
Tips for All Calgary Students
1. Get your note the same day you're sick — don't wait until you feel better
2. Keep copies of everything you submit
3. Email your professor immediately — even before you have the note
4. Check your course outline — some professors have specific documentation requirements
5. Know your deadlines — late documentation is often rejected
The Cost Problem for Students
Walk-in clinic: $20-$50 + 2-4 hour wait + transit time
MedLetter: $49 flat fee, delivered to your inbox in hours, available 24/7
For students without a family doctor (most of you), MedLetter is often the fastest and most convenient option — especially during exam season when walk-in clinics are packed with other sick students.
Academic Integrity Note
Getting a sick note when you're not actually sick is academic misconduct and can result in expulsion. Only request documentation for genuine illness.
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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Consult a licensed physician for medical guidance and a lawyer for legal questions.
Sources: Alberta Employment Standards Code (RSA 2000, c E-9) | College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) Standards of Practice | Canada Labour Code, Part III | Alberta Human Rights Act (RSA 2000, c A-25.5)
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Related: [Sick Note Cost Calgary](/sick-note-cost-calgary) | [Calgary Sick Note Online](/sick-note-calgary) | [Calgary Workplace Accommodation](/sick-note-calgary) | [All Alberta Services](/get-started/sick_note)
Related: [Sick Note Near Me Calgary](/sick-note-near-me-calgary) | [Doctor Note Near Me Calgary](/doctors-note-near-me-calgary)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a sick note for a missed university exam?
Yes. Alberta universities accept sick notes from licensed physicians for exam deferrals. The note must confirm you were too ill to attend on the exam date.
How quickly do I need a sick note for an exam deferral?
Most Alberta universities require documentation within 2-5 business days of the missed exam. Online services provide same-day notes to meet tight deadlines.
Will my university accept an online sick note?
Yes. All major Alberta universities (U of C, U of A, MRU, SAIT, NAIT, MacEwan) accept sick notes from any licensed physician, including virtual care providers.
What if I was sick but did not see a doctor on the exam day?
A physician can still assess your reported symptoms and provide documentation. However, getting a note as close to the illness date as possible strengthens your deferral application.