University of Ottawa Exam Deferral: Complete 2026 Guide
The University of Ottawa (uOttawa) is a bilingual institution serving students in both English and French. Their exam deferral process accepts documentation in either language and follows Ontario's standard medical documentation practices.
uOttawa Exam Deferral Process
To defer a final exam at uOttawa:
1. Submit a Deferred Exam Request through uoZone within 5 working days of the missed exam
2. Upload medical documentation (medical certificate from a licensed physician)
3. Wait for Faculty approval (typically 1-3 weeks)
4. Check uoZone for your deferred exam date and location
Medical Certificate Requirements
uOttawa requires a medical certificate that includes:
- Date of the medical consultation
- Confirmation of inability to write the exam on the specified date
- Duration of the medical condition
- Physician's name, licence number, and signature
- Contact information for verification
Bilingual note: Documentation is accepted in English or French. No translation required.
Faculty-Specific Information
| Faculty | Deadline | Submission | Language |
|---------|----------|------------|----------|
| Arts | 5 working days | uoZone | EN/FR |
| Science | 5 working days | uoZone | EN/FR |
| Engineering | 5 working days | uoZone | EN/FR |
| Telfer School of Management | 5 working days | uoZone | EN/FR |
| Social Sciences | 5 working days | uoZone | EN/FR |
| Health Sciences | 5 working days | uoZone | EN/FR |
| Law (Common Law) | 3 working days | Faculty office | EN |
| Law (Civil Law) | 3 working days | Faculty office | FR/EN |
Getting a Sick Note in Ottawa
Option 1: MedLetter (Online) - 2-4 hours
- Documentation available in English (accepted by uOttawa)
- Licensed physician reviews your case
- Signed note emailed same day
- Cost: $49 flat fee
- Available 7 days/week
Option 2: uOttawa Health Services
- Located at 100 Marie-Curie
- Walk-in and appointments
- Busy during exam periods
- Free for uOttawa students
- Bilingual service
Option 3: Ottawa Walk-In Clinics
- Multiple options on Rideau, Bank Street, and in the Market
- Wait times: 1-3 hours
- Free with OHIP
- Bilingual clinics available
Frequently Asked Questions
Does uOttawa accept online doctor's notes?
Yes. uOttawa accepts medical documentation from any licensed physician, including virtual consultations, in either English or French.
What if I miss the 5-day deadline?
Late requests may be considered with a valid explanation, but approval is not guaranteed. Contact your Faculty's academic services immediately.
Can I defer a midterm at uOttawa?
Midterm deferrals are handled by individual professors. Contact your professor directly and provide medical documentation. The formal petition process is primarily for final exams.
When is the deferred exam scheduled?
Deferred exams are typically held during the next exam period. Check uoZone for your specific date once approved.
Get Your uOttawa Exam Deferral Note Today
MedLetter delivers same-day medical documentation accepted by the University of Ottawa. No clinic visit required.
Serving University of Ottawa students in Ottawa, Gatineau, and surrounding areas.