SFU Exam Deferral: Complete 2026 Guide
Simon Fraser University uses the term Academic Concession rather than "exam deferral." This is an important distinction because searching for "SFU exam deferral" on their website won't find the right forms. Academic Concession covers missed exams, late withdrawals, and incomplete grades.
Understanding Academic Concession at SFU
Academic Concession at SFU can take several forms:
- Deferred exam - Write the exam at a later date
- Aegrotat standing - Grade assigned based on work completed (rare)
- Late withdrawal - Withdraw from the course without academic penalty
- Incomplete grade - Additional time to complete coursework
For missed final exams due to illness, you'll typically request a deferred exam.
How to Apply for Academic Concession
1. Submit your request through SFU's online system (go.sfu.ca)
2. Provide supporting documentation (medical note from a physician)
3. Submit within 4 business days of the missed exam
4. Your department reviews and makes a decision
Documentation Requirements
SFU requires medical documentation that includes:
- Date of the medical visit
- Confirmation that you were unable to attend the exam
- The period of incapacity
- Physician's name, credentials, and signature
- Contact information
Key point: SFU does NOT require a diagnosis. The note must confirm functional impairment only.
SFU Campus Locations and Healthcare Access
SFU has three campuses, each with different healthcare access:
| Campus | Location | Nearest Health Services | Walk-In Options |
|--------|----------|------------------------|-----------------|
| Burnaby (Main) | Burnaby Mountain | SFU Health & Counselling | Limited on-mountain |
| Surrey | Central City | No campus clinic | Multiple Surrey walk-ins |
| Vancouver (Harbour Centre) | Downtown | No campus clinic | Many downtown walk-ins |
Getting a Sick Note for SFU
Option 1: MedLetter (Online) - 2-4 hours
- Works regardless of which SFU campus you attend
- Licensed physician reviews your case
- Signed documentation emailed same day
- Cost: $49 flat fee
- Available 7 days/week
Option 2: SFU Health & Counselling (Burnaby Campus)
- Located in Maggie Benston Centre, Room 0200
- Walk-in and appointments
- Very busy during exam periods
- Free for SFU students
- Only at Burnaby campus
Option 3: Local Walk-In Clinics
- Burnaby: Kingsway, Hastings Street options
- Surrey: Multiple options near Central City
- Vancouver: Numerous downtown options
- Wait times: 1-3 hours
- Free with BC MSP
Common Mistakes SFU Students Make
1. Searching for "exam deferral" instead of "Academic Concession" - SFU uses different terminology
2. Missing the 4-business-day deadline - This is strict at SFU
3. Not specifying which form of concession you want - Request "deferred exam" specifically
4. Surrey/Vancouver students assuming they can use Burnaby Health Services - The clinic is only at Burnaby Mountain
5. Not following up - Check your SFU email and go.sfu.ca for updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Does SFU accept online doctor's notes for Academic Concession?
Yes. SFU accepts medical documentation from any licensed physician, including virtual consultations. The documentation must confirm you were unable to attend the exam.
What if I'm at SFU Surrey and can't get to Burnaby for a doctor's note?
You don't need to go to the Burnaby campus clinic. Any licensed physician can provide documentation, including online services like MedLetter.
How long does SFU take to process Academic Concession?
Typically 2-4 weeks. Deferred exams are usually scheduled during the next exam period.
Can I get Academic Concession for a midterm at SFU?
Yes, but the process may differ by department. Some professors handle midterm accommodations directly. For final exams, the formal Academic Concession process is required.
Get Your SFU Academic Concession Note Today
Don't let SFU's 4-day deadline pass. MedLetter delivers same-day medical documentation accepted for Academic Concession at all three SFU campuses.
Serving SFU students at Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver campuses.