University of Toronto Exam Deferral: Sick Note Toronto Students Need in 2026
The University of Toronto (UofT) — with campuses at St. George, UTM (Mississauga), and UTSC (Scarborough) — has specific policies for exam deferrals. With 95,000+ students, understanding these requirements is essential.
UofT's Verification of Illness or Injury (VOI) Form
UofT uses a specific form called the Verification of Illness or Injury (VOI) form. This is NOT a standard sick note — it is UofT's own form that must be completed by a medical practitioner.
Key features of the VOI form:
- Available for download from UofT's website
- Must be completed by a physician, NP, or psychologist
- Includes severity assessment (mild, moderate, severe)
- Includes incapacitation period (dates)
- Does NOT require specific diagnosis disclosure
- Must be submitted to your college registrar
When You Need the VOI Form
Situations requiring VOI:
- Missing a final exam
- Missing a midterm worth 10%+ of your grade
- Missing a significant assignment deadline
- Requesting a late withdrawal (LWD) for medical reasons
- Extended absence (5+ consecutive days)
When the Absence Declaration may suffice:
- UofT introduced the Absence Declaration tool on ACORN
- Available for absences of up to 14 consecutive days (once per term)
- No documentation required
- Cannot be used for final exams or assignments worth 25%+
How to Defer a Final Exam at UofT
St. George Campus:
1. Get your VOI form completed by a practitioner
2. Submit a petition through your college registrar (e.g., University College, Trinity, Victoria, etc.)
3. Upload the VOI form
4. Wait for approval (typically 1-2 weeks)
5. Deferred exam scheduled during the next exam period
UTM (Mississauga):
1. Same VOI form requirement
2. Submit through the UTM Registrar's Office
3. Similar timeline and process
UTSC (Scarborough):
1. Same VOI form requirement
2. Submit through the UTSC Registrar's Office
3. Similar timeline and process
Doctor Note Toronto: Getting the VOI Form During Exam Season
During December and April exams, Toronto's healthcare options are strained:
| Option | Wait Time | Cost | Can Complete VOI? |
|--------|-----------|------|-------------------|
| UofT Health and Wellness | 2-7 day wait | Free | Yes |
| Walk-in clinic (Toronto) | 2-5 hours | $20-$40 | Yes (bring form) |
| Appletree Medical | 2-4 hours | $20-$35 | Yes (bring form) |
| MedLetter | 2-4 hours (no wait) | $49 | Yes (equivalent documentation) |
The Absence Declaration vs. VOI
| Feature | Absence Declaration | VOI Form |
|---------|-------------------|----------|
| Documentation needed | None | Medical practitioner |
| Duration covered | Up to 14 days | Any duration |
| Use per term | Once | Unlimited (with documentation) |
| Final exams | No | Yes |
| Assignments 25%+ | No | Yes |
| Available on | ACORN | Registrar's office |
Tips for UofT Students
1. Use the Absence Declaration first — if eligible, it is faster and free
2. Download the VOI form before you need it — have it ready on your phone/laptop
3. Bring the form to your appointment — practitioners need to fill out UofT's specific form
4. Submit to the correct registrar — each college/campus has its own office
5. Keep copies — save digital copies of everything you submit
6. Do not wait — submit as soon as possible after the missed exam
Key Takeaway
For most missed coursework at UofT, the Absence Declaration (once per term, no documentation) is your easiest option. For final exams and major assessments, you need the VOI form completed by a medical practitioner. During exam season when UofT Health and Wellness is overwhelmed, MedLetter provides same-day documentation from a CPSO-registered physician that meets UofT's requirements.
Related: [Sick Note Ontario — Complete City Guide](/sick-note-ontario) | [Ontario Sick Note Cost 2026](/blog/ontario-sick-note-cost-2026)
Related: [Sick Note Near Me Toronto](/sick-note-near-me-toronto) | [Doctor Note Near Me Toronto](/doctors-note-near-me-toronto)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a sick note for a missed exam in Ontario?
Yes. Ontario universities accept sick notes from licensed physicians for exam deferrals and academic accommodations.
How quickly do I need a sick note for an exam deferral?
Most Ontario universities require documentation within 3-5 business days of the missed exam. Online services provide same-day notes.
Will my Ontario university accept an online sick note?
Yes. Major Ontario universities (U of T, York, McMaster, Western, Queen's, Waterloo) accept sick notes from any licensed physician.
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. Get your note as soon as possible after the illness.