UNB & STU Exam Deferral: Medical Documentation Guide
The University of New Brunswick (Fredericton and Saint John campuses) and St. Thomas University have specific policies for exam deferrals. Understanding these requirements — and knowing how to get documentation quickly during exam season — can make the difference between a deferral and a zero.
UNB Exam Deferral Policy
When you need a medical certificate at UNB:
- Missing a final exam
- Missing a midterm worth 20%+ of your final grade
- Requesting an Incomplete (INC) grade
- Absence exceeding 3 consecutive class days
- Multiple absences in the same course
When a self-declaration may suffice:
- Missing a single class or tutorial
- Missing a minor assignment (worth less than 10%)
- First absence in a course (check with your professor)
UNB's medical certificate requirements:
- Must be from a licensed physician, NP, or psychologist
- Must confirm you were unable to attend the exam/complete the work
- Must include the date(s) of incapacity
- Must be submitted to the Registrar's Office within 5 business days
- Does NOT need to disclose your specific diagnosis
St. Thomas University Policy
STU has a slightly different approach:
- Medical certificates required for all exam deferrals
- Submit to the Academic Dean's office
- 3-day submission deadline after the missed exam
- STU Student Health Services can provide documentation (limited capacity)
The Fredericton Student Healthcare Problem
During exam season (December and April), Fredericton's limited healthcare options become even more strained:
- UNB Student Health Centre: Appointment wait times of 2-5 days during exams
- STU Health Services: Very limited capacity
- Fredericton walk-in clinics: 3-5 hour waits (students competing with general public)
- After-hours clinic: Evening only, $40-$60
Getting Documentation Fast
| Option | Timeline | Cost | During Exam Season? |
|--------|----------|------|-------------------|
| UNB Student Health | 2-5 day wait | Free | Overwhelmed |
| Walk-in clinic | Same day (3-5 hr wait) | $25-$40 | Very busy |
| MedLetter | Same day (2-4 hr delivery) | $49 | Always available |
Step-by-Step: Deferring a UNB Exam
1. Don't attend the exam if you're sick — showing up and leaving early complicates things
2. Get medical documentation immediately — don't wait until after the exam period
3. Email your professor — notify them you'll be requesting a deferral
4. Submit to the Registrar — complete the deferral request form + attach medical certificate
5. Follow up — confirm your deferral was approved and note the new exam date
UNB Saint John Campus
The Saint John campus has even fewer healthcare options than Fredericton:
- Student Health Services: Very limited hours
- Saint John walk-in clinics: 2-3 hour waits
- Same documentation requirements as Fredericton campus
Tips for UNB and STU Students
1. Submit documentation ASAP — the 5-day deadline is strict
2. Keep digital copies — scan or photograph your medical certificate
3. Know the difference — exam deferrals vs. academic petitions have different processes
4. Don't fake it — UNB and STU take academic integrity seriously; fraudulent documentation can result in expulsion
5. Plan ahead — if you're feeling unwell before an exam, get documentation before the exam date if possible
Key Takeaway
UNB and STU exam deferrals require legitimate medical documentation from a licensed practitioner. During exam season when Fredericton's clinics are overwhelmed, MedLetter provides same-day documentation that meets both universities' requirements — without the 3-5 hour walk-in clinic wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a sick note online in Canada?
Yes. Licensed Canadian physicians can assess patients through virtual consultations and issue legally valid sick notes accepted by employers across all provinces.
How much does an online sick note cost?
MedLetter charges a flat $49 for a sick note with same-day delivery. No hidden fees, no clinic wait times.
Will my employer accept an online sick note?
Yes. All Canadian provincial medical colleges recognize virtual care. Online sick notes are legally equivalent to in-person notes.
How long does it take to get a sick note from MedLetter?
Most sick notes are delivered within 2-6 hours of submission. Same-day delivery is standard.