assignment late submission email sample

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How to Email Professor About Late Work

Last Updated: April 12, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. and by wikiHow staff writer, Caroline Heiderscheit . Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 192,140 times.

With deadlines, jobs, activities, and relationships to juggle, managing your schedule as a student can be tough. If you’ve realized you’re going to miss a deadline (we’ve all been there), you might be wondering how to email your professor for an extension, to apologize, or to limit any late penalties. Don't worry, we've got you covered. Below, we'll walk you through how to email your professor, plus we'll give you some sample emails to inspire you, too. To learn how to email your professor about late work, read on!

Example Emails to Professors for a Late Assignment

Every now and then, it’s okay to miss a deadline. When this happens, send an email immediately and say something along the lines of, “I apologize for turning in this assignment late. Know that I take my work seriously, and I'll do my best to avoid this in the future. I would greatly appreciate an extension on this paper if possible.”

Tips For Late Work Emails

• Don’t say: “I’m just genuinely so, so sorry. I can’t believe I turned this in late, and you have no idea how long I prepped for this assignment. I really am so sorry that I missed the deadline, and you should know that I will do my best in the future, even when I have tech issues, to not let this happen again.”
• Instead say: “I apologize for turning in this assignment late. Know that I take my work seriously and I’ll do my best to avoid this in the future.”

• Don’t say: “Message from a student in Psych 104,” “Need an extension,” or “Hello from Randy Bernard!”
• Instead say: “Extension Request for Psych104, Paper 2: Randy Bernard”

• Use a formal greeting. “Dear Professor James,” and “Professor James,” are perfect. “Hey,” and “Hi,” are too informal and should be avoided.
• Same goes for your signoff—choose a formal phrase. “Best,” and “Sincerely,” are great picks.
• If you’re asking your professor for something, be sure to ask, not demand. Instead of saying “I need” an extension, say that an extension would be extremely helpful to you.
• Remember to use “Please” and “Thank you," too!

• This could hurt your relationship and increase penalties on your assignment.
• So instead, say you're sorry: “I apologize for my late assignment. I know you're busy, and I don’t want to waste your time.”
• “I’m sorry for this late paper, especially because it communicates a lack of care and concern for my grades that I don't feel is accurate.”

• “If I had an extra 48 hours to complete this assignment, I’d be able to fully explore and structure my insights for this term paper.”
• “I would greatly appreciate an extension on this project. With a little more time, I could turn in my very best work and learn even more from this assignment."

• “Last night, my dog had a bar of chocolate without me realizing. I’ve spent the entire evening with her at the vet.”
• "To be entirely honest, I've been dealing with some mental health issues that are seriously affecting my schoolwork."
• If you can, avoid lying. If you're granted an extension and the truth comes out later on, you could face major consequences.

• Don’t say: “Honestly, it was out of my hands entirely. I’m a victim of circumstance, and that’s why my assignment is late.”
• Instead say: “It's true that I didn’t plan for this to happen. That being said, if I’d started earlier, this wouldn’t have been an issue. So I know, ultimately, this is my fault. I take full responsibility.”

• “This isn’t like me, and in the future, I promise to do better.”
• “I take my schoolwork very seriously. If it weren’t for my dog’s illness, I would have made getting this assignment in my top priority.”

Sample Emails

Why You Should Email Your Professor About Late Work

• Policies around extensions differ from school to school, but by writing an A+ email, you can only help your chances.
• Generally, professors only give you an extension under extenuating circumstances, like a major accident. They're going to be less inclined to extend an assignment if you had competing priorities, like work.
• Professors are people too, and they want to help! Especially if you don’t have a history of late work, when you plead your case, they may be more forgiving than you’d expect.

• Especially if you had a major, unforeseen factor pop up in the final moments before submitting your assignment, you may be able to explain and limit your punishment.

• By offering a respectful and honest apology for your late assignment, you can improve your relationship with your professor, earn their respect, and possibly limit your late assignment’s penalties.

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://dean.williams.edu/files/2010/09/Guide-to-Emailing-Professors-1.pdf
• ↑ https://advising.yalecollege.yale.edu/how-write-email-your-instructor
• ↑ https://studentaffairs.loyno.edu/health-counseling/university-counseling-center/news-ucc/emailing-your-professor-tips-tricks-health
• ↑ https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/how-to-ask-for-an-extension/
• ↑ https://www.makemyassignments.com/blog/how-to-complete-your-assignments-before-the-deadline/
• ↑ https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2019/09/23/tips-handling-missed-deadline-opinion

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Late Assignment Email: Examples and Professor Escape Tips

• by Joseph Kenas
• January 18, 2024
• Professors and Faculty

Late assignment emails are ways that students use to communicate to their professors on issues of late assignments. Here are top late assignment examples and tips to get away with a late assignment

Students getting late with assignments is a common thing in school today, and it is good to find a way to save face and earn a grade. And nothing hacks the situation better than an email to the professor.

These are not just normal emails and there are specifications that students need to follow when communicating to the lecturer on late assignments.

Be intentional when writing to your instructor. Therefore, before we delve into the examples of emails you can write to your professor when you are late, let us first check some of the reasons that may necessitate such action.

Why Write a Late Assignment Email to your Professor?

The following are some of the reasons why students write late assignment emails to their professors:

1. To Inform the Professor That you Will Submit the Assignment Late

Students who are unable to finish their assignments on time write to professors to inform them that their assignments will be late.

It is important to inform professors in advance that you will not submit your assignment as per the deadline rather than submitting it with no notice. 

2. Explaining why you will be Late

Some students are held up by unavoidable circumstances that hinder them from completing their assignments on time.

When the student is ill or his parents or guardians are, balancing time between taking care of parents, doing household chores, and doing their assignments is hard.

These students write to their instructors informing them that they may miss the assignment deadline

3. Requesting for An Extension

Students who can’t finish their assignments on time write to their instructors requesting additional time to complete their assignments.

This email should explain the reasons as to why they were unable to meet the set deadline, their assignment progress, and the time that they need to complete the assignment.

Students who request deadlines to have more time for conducting research and eventually submitting quality work are mostly known by professors and get their requests granted. 

4. Apologizing for Late Assignments

Professors hate it when students hand in their work late. It is, therefore, good if students write emails to their professors apologizing for late assignment submissions.

An apology email should be written in a sincere most manner. This can help avoid harsh penalties and earn leniency from your professor.

Professors are always understanding and will listen to your concerns provided you don’t have a record of being irresponsible. An apology email should have believable reasons as to why your assignment is late.

It should also have the apology directed to the instructor and a promise that you made a mistake and it will never be repeated. 

How to Write a Late Assignment Email

In our guide on how to write an email to a professor , we guided you on the steps to take and the reasons that can necessitate it. However, emails on lateness are different.

Late assignment emails have become common among students today. Most people are familiar with emails but not very good with writing late emails.

Below is how one should write a late assignment email to your professor.

On the “To” part write the email address of your professor.

Always confirm that you have the correct email address to avoid sending your email to a different person. 

On the subject part of the email write the reason why you are sending the email. The reasons can be?

• Application letter for late assignment submission. This can be due to the need for more time for research or if the student forgot submitting homework or did not remember when the assignment was due.
• Apology letter for late assignment submission. This is a direct apology to the professor for late assignment submissions, a regret for any inconvenience caused, and a promise to change.
• Request for a deadline extension. This is mostly written by students who have not done the assignment due to unavoidable circumstances.

Still, on the subject part, include your name and personal information that will help the professor identify you.

On the body part of your email explain why you are writing the email. Begin with a salutation that is “Dear sir/madam.”

Now explain yourself in simple terms and make the professor understand why you are submitting your assignment late. You can borrow an example from a list of excuses for a late assignment that I have created from my interactions with students.

End it with a polite closure. Most students use “sincere apologies and regards.” Insert your name or your school registration number at the end.

Examples of Late Assignment Emails

1. an example of a late submission apology.

2. Deadline Extension Email example

Tips when Writing a Late Assignment Email

There are several things you should do and not do when writing a late assignment email.

Keep it brief

Never write a long letter. Go straight to the point. Explain yourself in 6-7 sentences. Anything more than that will be too big. Remember the professor has limited time.

Use the Correct Email

Make sure that the email of your professor is correct. You can check it on the syllabus where they provide it or on the official website of the institution.

This is very crucial. You have done a mistake and you should address the professor in the right manner. Use the full name of the professor.

Also, use Dear sir/madam at the beginning. Mind the tome of the language you use. Be sorry. End your email with a complimentary close too.

Fill in the subject part of the email correctly

This is where you write what your email is all about. Use statements such as “late assignment submission” or “missed paper deadline. Write your name too and your personal information too for easy identification. 

• If you need a deadline extension, ask for permission to meet up and set another due date for your assignment.
• Always apologize for your lateness and express regrets for not completing your assignment on time. 

The Don’ts

Avoid a friendly language.

Even if you are friends with the professor write your email in an official language. If you use too much informal language, the teacher may ignore your email and this becomes a waste of time.

Avoid Long Emails

Do not write a lot of information. You are likely to distort the message. Some professors do not like such long emails because, in the first place, they know the disadvantages of late homework to the rest of the class.

When you lie and investigations reveal you lied, you will be in for severe penalties. Always be sincere with your explanation of what led to late submission.

Do not Shift Blames

Take responsibility for submitting the assignment late. Don’t blame the professor or the institution. 

What to Write to your Professor

In most cases, instructors provide you with a guide for sending assignments through emails. In these cases, follow the instructions fully.

When there are no instructions provided, on the subject part write the course name, course code, the title of the assignment, and your details.

On the body part of the professor begin with a proper email greeting and explain briefly what you have sent. Attach the assignment file and send.

Joseph is a freelance journalist and a part-time writer with a particular interest in the gig economy. He writes about schooling, college life, and changing trends in education. When not writing, Joseph is hiking or playing chess.

Sample Email To Professor About Late Assignment

With activities, jobs, relationships, and deadlines to juggle, it can often be challenging for the student to manage their schedule. If you have understood that you may miss a deadline, it is best to acknowledge it and look for ways to tell your professor.

Did you consider sending a sample email to professor about late assignment?

You can use this email to curtail late penalties, apologize, or get an extension. Below we will enlist a few tips on how to email your professor. By the end of it, we will also give a late assignment email to professor example that can inspire you.

Continue reading to inform your professor about the late work.

Tips for late assignment email to the professor

Keep it short and brief..

When you write to a professor, you are nervous and tend to overshare or ramble. We understand that, but please avoid this as much as you can. Professors are busy with multiple tasks daily and do not have the time to read lengthy emails.

So, please keep them brief and to the point. It is safe to provide the information that they should know. Also, after completing the email, please go back, re-read, and edit it to ensure its precision. 

Avoid statements like

I am so sorry. I cannot believe I am making a late submission. You do not know how long I have prepped for this assignment, but I missed the deadline. Please be ensured that I will do my best in the future and guarantee that it is not a repeat occurrence.

Alternatively, say things like

I am sorry for turning in this assignment late. Please know I take my work seriously, and such an incident will never be repeated.

Include a subject line that is detailed but clear.

Begin your email with a simple and relevant subject line sans any vague phrases. Even though your subject should be detailed, it should not be excessively lengthy. Please know your professor manages a massive inbox. So, the more time you cut down for them, the more grateful they will be to you.

Avoid subject lines like: 

• Email from a Psych 104 student
• Need an Assignment Extension
• Hi there from Mark Jacobs

Alternatively, go for subject lines like:

Request for Extension for Psych 104: Mark Jacobs.

Keep the tone polite but professional.

Regardless of how cordial you are with your professor or if you have personally informed him about the late submission when you write the email, you need to be more. Keep the tone as courteous as possible across the email.

Here are some tips to keep it polite:

• Across the email, use Please and Thank You, wherever applicable.
• When asking for an extension, do not demand but request. Avoid statements like: I need an extension. Instead, write: I will be glad if I can get an extension.
• Be formal in your greeting. Avoid greets like Hi or Hey. Alternatives like Professor Martin or Dear Professor Martin are recommended.
• The same applies when signing off. Go with a formal phrase – Yours Sincerely or With Best Regards or Best. 

Be apologetic 

Let your professor know that despite this late submission, you are serious about the subject and take the deadlines seriously. If you go on to explain your situation or directly ask for an extension without a formal apology, your professor will think you are ungrateful.

• It can amplify the penalties on the assignments.
• It might tarnish the relationship you have with your professor forever.
• Hence, always apologize.

Say things like:

I am sorry for the late submission. I understand you are busy, and I have zero intent to waste your time.

I apologize for the late assignment. I know it communicates a lack of concern for my grade, but I do not think it is accurate. I could not turn it in on time because (the reason for the delay!)

Request for the extension

Request the professor to push the deadlines a little if you can have your paper ready. Do not worry. You are not alone. Professors routinely get such requests but sadly cannot accommodate each one of them. So, please be thoughtful and honest, as it can amplify your chances of bagging an extension. Via your email, your professor must feel that you take things seriously. So, show them what you have already completed. It can be particularly beneficial if you have already finished the assignment but only need a day or two to make minor amends.  

Here is what you can say:

• Professor, only if I had an extra 24 hours to finish this I could structure and explore my insights on the topics for this submission.
• I would be grateful to get an extension for 48 hours on this project. I can put forth my best work and learn more from this task with only a little more time.

Include helpful context

Again do not overshare, but explain why you could not complete the task within the stipulated timeline. List the hurdles that came your way in completing the assignment, but do not get into the detail. Regardless, be honest and brief because if you get the extension and the truth comes out later, you may have to bear serious consequences.

• My little pup chewed a leaf from our indoor garden, which was toxic. Consequently, I had to spend the entire evening at the vet.
• I have been feeling very overwhelmed for the last couple of days, which has affected my schoolwork too. Please accept my apologies.

Own it, and do not blame

Of course, it may be the hardest thing to do, especially if things were not in your control. But please do not play the blame game. If you accept responsibility, you will probably get what you are seeking. Your professor will appreciate your professionalism and maturity and grant an extension.

Avoid statements like:

In all honesty, things were not in my hands, and I am a victim of my circumstances. Hence, the submission could not be made timely.

Instead, say

Honestly, I did not plan for any of this to happen, and I know I could have completed it in time if I commenced a little earlier. Hence, I know it is my fault and take full responsibility.

Say that it won’t happen again.

If it was a fluke occurrence, please go ahead and let your professor know that you will not make it a habit, and it is and will only be a one-time thing. Let them know you are typically responsible and organized and care for your grades and education.

• It is very unlike me, and I promise to do better henceforth.
• Please know I take my schoolwork very seriously. The assignment would have been my top priority if not for my mental health.

Support your email with a relevant document.

If your submission was late because of your dog’s poor health, a family medical emergency, or your mental health, support the email with medical documentation. Of course, you do not have to attach all the documents: one or two official receipts, notes, or medical records will suffice.

Have a backup plan ready.

Please know when you have asked for an extension, regardless of whether the request is approved, you must get to work immediately. Of course, you must hope for the best, but do not wait for the replies. Try to finish the task at the earliest or hire someone to do your homework .

Here is a late assignment email to professor sample:

Subject: Late Submission of Assignment for [Course Name and Number]

Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],

I am writing to inform you that I will submit my [assignment name] late. I understand that the due date was [due date], and I apologize for my inability to deliver it on time.

The reason for my delay is [explain the reason concisely, such as personal or health reasons, technical issues, etc.]. However, I have completed the assignment and attached it to this email.

I understand that late submissions may come with a penalty, and I am willing to accept any consequences for the delay. I hope you will still consider grading my assignment and providing feedback. It will help my academic progress.

Once again, I apologize for any inconvenience my late submission may have caused, and I thank you for your understanding.

[Your Name]

[Class Name and Number]

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Late Assignment Email Example: A Complete Guide to Success

Crafting the perfect late assignment email can feel like navigating a minefield. You want to strike a balance between professionalism and sincerity, all while hoping for leniency from your professor. Historically, students have faced challenges in articulating their reasons without sounding like they’re making excuses. This post is your lifeline, offering examples and tips on how to compose an email that communicates your situation effectively. We’ll dive into the essentials of tone, timing, tactfulness, and reason—key components that can transform your plea into a persuasive message with the help of inserted details and thanks.

Key Takeaways

• Always start your late assignment email by addressing the recipient politely and professionally, acknowledging their time and position.
• Clearly state the purpose of your email in the first few sentences, making it easier for the recipient to understand your request quickly.
• When asking for an extension, be honest about your reasons but keep it concise; providing too much information can be overwhelming.
• If you have additional requests, such as feedback or clarification on the assignment, include these in a separate paragraph to keep your email organized.
• In cases of personal circumstances affecting your ability to complete the assignment on time, mention them respectfully without oversharing personal details.
• Don’t forget to follow up if you haven’t received a response within a reasonable timeframe, as this shows your commitment and responsibility towards your coursework.
• Adapt your email communication to cater to special situations by being flexible and understanding that different scenarios may require a unique approach or tone.

Understanding Email Etiquette

Formal tone.

Writing an email about a late assignment requires a formal tone. This means you should use respectful language at all times. Avoid any slang or casual phrases that might make the email seem less serious, and insert details with a penalty in mind. It’s important to maintain a professional demeanor throughout your writing. For example, instead of saying “Hey,” begin with “I hope this message finds you well.”

Remember, the way you write reflects on you as much as what you’re writing about. Keeping your tone formal and inserting details about the penalty shows that you understand the gravity of submitting an assignment late and respect your professor’s time.

Subject Line

The subject line is crucial in getting your professor’s attention. It should clearly state the purpose: “Late Assignment Submission.” Inserting details such as the course code or name provides immediate context, which is helpful for professors who teach multiple courses.

Keep it concise and to the point; overly long subject lines can be cumbersome and may not display fully in email clients, potentially causing important details to be missed.

Addressing Professor

Always start with a polite greeting such as “Dear Dr./Prof.” followed by their last name, inserting details where appropriate. Make sure to spell their name correctly; it shows attention to detail and respect for them as individuals.

Using proper titles conveys professionalism and acknowledges their position, achievements, and insert details within academia.

Signing Off

End your email on a respectful note with “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by inserting details such as your full name and student ID number if applicable. Including contact information can also be useful if further discussion is needed regarding the late submission.

Crafting Your Email

Introducing yourself.

Start your email by clearly stating who you are. Mention your full name, insert details, and the class you’re enrolled in. It helps if you briefly state your major or year of study too. If you’ve had any previous interactions with the instructor, highlight them here. This sets a personal tone and reminds them of who you are.

For example, “I am Alex Smith, a sophomore majoring in Biology and currently enrolled in your Chemistry 101 class.”

This approach shows respect and professionalism from the start.

Stating Reasons

Next, explain why your assignment is late. Be clear and honest but keep it concise; there’s no need for overly detailed stories. Avoid making excuses as this can undermine your credibility.

You might say something like, “Due to unforeseen family circumstances, I was unable to complete my assignment on time.”

This demonstrates accountability while providing necessary context.

Accepting Responsibility

It’s crucial to acknowledge your mistake upfront. Express that you understand there may be consequences for late submissions. Show that you’re willing to accept these penalties gracefully.

A sentence like “I realize my submission is late and I’m prepared for any deductions as per our syllabus,” conveys maturity about the situation.

Highlighting Efforts

Finally, mention any attempts made to complete the assignment on time despite challenges faced along the way. This could include specific obstacles that prevented timely completion without sounding like excuses.

For instance: “Despite starting early, I struggled with sourcing accurate data which delayed my progress.”

Such statements reflect commitment towards learning and improvement without deflecting blame.

Requesting an Extension

Polite request.

When you realize you’ll need more time for your assignment, the tone of your request matters. Start by expressing respect for the recipient’s time and position. Acknowledge their authority to grant or deny your request. It’s crucial to communicate understanding that an extension might not be possible due to policy or fairness concerns.

Thank them in advance for considering your situation. This shows maturity and professionalism. A polite request sets a positive tone and increases the likelihood of a favorable response.

Offering a Plan

After requesting politely, it’s important to show you’re serious about completing the work. Propose a new deadline that is realistic given your circumstances. Be specific about when you can turn in the completed assignment.

Outline clear steps you will take to ensure timely completion. This could include dedicating specific hours each day to work on it or seeking help from peers if needed. Demonstrating initiative reassures instructors of your commitment to resolving the issue responsibly.

Additional Requests via Email

Extra credit.

After sending a late assignment email , you might want to ask about extra credit. This shows your commitment to improving your grade. It’s good to suggest types of extra credit that match the course content. For example, if it’s a history class, propose a research paper on an unexplored topic.

Remember, offering extra credit is up to your professor. They may say no. But showing initiative can leave a positive impression.

Scheduling Appointments

If things are still unclear or you need more guidance, request a meeting with your professor. Offer several dates and times when you’re free. This makes it easier for them to say yes.

Expressing eagerness for feedback shows you care about learning from your mistakes. It also opens the door for constructive discussions that can help beyond just this assignment.

Research Opportunities

Offering to assist in your professor’s research is another way to show dedication and make amends for late work. Highlight any skills or knowledge that could be useful in their projects.

Understand this is just an offer and not something they have to accept. However, demonstrating willingness to contribute can strengthen your relationship with the professor and possibly open new learning opportunities.

Communicating About Personal Circumstances

Emailing about being sick.

When you’re sick, it impacts your ability to meet deadlines. It’s okay to email your teacher or boss about this. Briefly explain how the illness has affected you. Keep it short.

If you have a doctor’s note, attach it to the email. This shows that your claim is genuine. But don’t worry if you don’t have one. Not all illnesses require a doctor’s visit.

Make sure to express your willingness to catch up on missed work. This demonstrates responsibility and emotional intelligence .

Late Submission Reasons

Sometimes life throws unexpected challenges our way, like a family emergency. These are valid reasons for late submissions but need careful communication.

Here’s what to do:

• Clearly state the unforeseen circumstance.
• Be succinct and factual about its impact on your submission.
• Reassure them of your commitment despite these challenges.

Remember, being honest and straightforward is key here as well.

Communicating personal circumstances requires tact and understanding from both sides—yours and those receiving the message. By showing emotional intelligence in these emails, you foster empathy with your audience. This not only helps in getting an extension but also builds trust for future interactions.

Following Up

Writing reminder emails.

After you’ve communicated about your personal circumstances, it’s crucial to follow up. Reminder emails play a key role here. Start by mentioning any previous communication regarding the late submission. This sets the context and shows that you’re not ignoring the situation.

In your email, politely inquire about any updates or decisions made concerning your late assignment. It’s important to keep this brief and respectful. You’re seeking feedback and showing that you value their consideration of your situation.

• Mention previous communication for context.
• Politely ask for updates or decisions.
• Keep it short and respectful.

Replying to Professor

When you receive a response from your professor, start by thanking them. This is vital regardless of their decision on your late assignment. Gratitude shows respect for their time and consideration.

Next, confirm that you understand any next steps or consequences they’ve outlined. If there are specific actions required from you, make sure to acknowledge these clearly in your reply.

Finally, reaffirm your dedication to the course and commitment to improvement moving forward. Let them know that despite this hiccup, you’re serious about doing better.

• Thank professors for their feedback.
• Confirm understanding of next steps or consequences.
• Express dedication to improvement in the course.

Special Situations

Letter of recommendation.

If you’ve faced unforeseen circumstances leading to a late assignment, it might still be possible to request a letter of recommendation. It’s crucial to approach this humbly. Acknowledge that your recent performance may not reflect your usual standards. Yet, emphasize the growth and learning derived from the experience.

You can propose providing more details or having a discussion to further explain your situation. This shows you’re proactive and committed to improvement.

Asking Questions

After submitting a late assignment, clarity on several aspects becomes vital for future submissions.

First, seek clarification on any unclear requirements or penalties associated with late submissions. Understanding these could prevent repeat occurrences. Next, if difficulties in grasping course content contributed to the delay, ask about available resources for assistance. This demonstrates your willingness to overcome challenges.

Lastly, inquire politely about opportunities for feedback on the work submitted late. Feedback is essential for learning and growth despite the setback.

Navigating the tricky waters of late assignments can feel like a tightrope walk, but with the right email etiquette and approach, you’ve got this. From understanding how to craft that perfect email, requesting extensions, to handling special situations, we’ve covered the bases to ensure your emails hit the mark every time. Remember, it’s all about being clear, respectful, and honest in your communication. Life throws curveballs, and when it does, knowing how to articulate your circumstances can make all the difference.

So, don’t let stress get the better of you. Take a deep breath, use these tips as your guide, and send that email with confidence. And hey, if you’re looking for more insights on navigating academic or professional communications, keep exploring our blog. Your next read could be the game-changer you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i write a polite email asking for an extension on an assignment.

Start by addressing your professor respectfully. Briefly explain your situation and ask if it would be possible to extend the deadline. Be sure to thank them for considering your request.

What should I include in my late assignment email?

Mention the specific assignment, why you’re late, and how much extra time you need. Keep it concise but informative.

Can I ask for an extension due to personal issues?

Absolutely! Just let them know without going into too much detail unless you’re comfortable. It’s important they understand that your circumstances are affecting your ability to complete work on time.

Is following up on my extension request a good idea?

Yes, if you haven’t heard back in a few days, a gentle follow-up is appropriate. Remind them of your initial email and politely inquire about the status of your request.

How do I address unexpected situations in my extension request?

Be honest about what happened but stay brief. If something truly unforeseen impacted your ability to submit on time, most professors will understand.

What tone should I use when requesting an extension via email?

Keep it professional yet approachable. You want to convey sincerity and respect towards the recipient’s authority while expressing genuine concern about meeting academic responsibilities.

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How to Send Email to the Professor About a Late Assignment

Table of contents

• 1.1 To show respect and inform the advisor that you will be late in returning the exercise
• 1.2 Apologizing for missing the deadline
• 1.3 Explaining the cause for tardiness
• 3 Late Assignment Letter Writing Tips
• 4 Examples of Late Assignment Letters

Convenient and easy time management is one of the students’ privileges. Meeting deadlines can be a headache, especially when you have a job, relationships, or a portion of new upcoming large tasks. At some point, you realize that 24 hours isn’t enough to deal with the planned schedule. If you feel like you’re going to miss a deadline, you might need to know some advice. Yet, there is no need to worry; reach out to your professor, clarify the situation, and notify him that you’ll be belated on some tasks. Even so, you might wonder how to compile the proper letter to your advisor, right? In the article, we’ll cover all the necessary aspects and teach you how to email a professor about a late assignment and beg pardon for being tardy. Don’t neglect it; it always comes in handy!

Why Do You Need to Write the Late Assignment Letter?

Often students don’t feel the urge to negotiate the issue and explain themselves. They are grown up and mature, so it seems unnecessary. However, there is a wide range of causes why you have to notify the teacher about being late on the task. Let’s revise some of them.

To show respect and inform the advisor that you will be late in returning the exercise

Writing to the teacher and explaining why you’ve missed the task might seem like an elementary school requirement. But, the need to apply to your lecturers is reasonable. Above all, it’s just a sign of intelligence and good manners. Also, it’s more rational to write to the advisor and inform him rather than miss the exercise without surplus notice.

Apologizing for missing the deadline

It is not a secret that professors get irritated by those learners who turn in their papers belated. Therefore, it would be an honorable intention to reach out by email to the professor about late assignment, apologizing for missing the due date. If you show your teacher that you’re sincerely sorry and provide a believable reason why it happened, the penalty might not be that harsh or absent at all. Don’t forget to mention that it was a one-time issue, and you won’t let it happen again.

Sometimes, you can’t predict whether the conditions will be pleasant for you and wonder how to email a professor about a late assignment. You may not have any chance to finish the given task, and the teacher won’t give you any extra time. In this case, you can pay for assignment to be done and turn it in before the deadline. The PapersOwl always creates unique papers, providing privacy and finishing the task exactly when you demand it. We all need a little help sometimes, so don’t be ashamed and apply to the website whenever you feel it’s necessary.

Explaining the cause for tardiness

We all are humans, after all, and tend to have complex life conditions. There are plenty of cases when something serious keeps learners from studying and completing exercises. At this rate, professors won’t be severe with you. They can listen and understand the conditions you’ve been through. You might get sick, or help your parents cure when they aren’t feeling well, etc. So, usually, those learners get in touch with their advisors and ask them to let them miss the specified date.

How to Write a Proper Late Assignment Email?

Making a late assignment email to professor seems complicated. You can’t predict if he will give you an extension for an assignment and let you finish with some extra time. Though, you must create a perfect letter by following certain steps to receive the best possible feedback.

The letter has to be written to your instructor. So, you need to start with the appeal. Consider that the tone of the letter is supposed to show respect, and the name of the advisor is mentioned properly, with the designation. If required, you can also copy the message and share it with the head of the faculty. Afterward, you need to come up with the subject; for example, use the “Apology for missed task submission”. Still, take into account that the topic depends on your particular issue.

Now you need to write the body of the letter. It is a helpful idea to start with an introduction and an apology. Then try to clarify the purpose of the appeal and quickly get to the point. Professors don’t like long reads with plenty of unnecessary words. Make sure you show that you’ve accepted your fault and will try your best not to repeat it.

Explain the causes to the teacher. Remember, you must be honest, and the circumstances of the missed deadline have to be valid. Don’t take the nice approach of the instructor for granted – he might turn your request down if he sees you deceiving him. There are some common problems that advisors are ready to consider and negotiate:

• family emergency
• unexpected Internet outage while online assignment writing saving
• laptop breakdown
• mixup with the time upon the due date
• not enough time to finish the work because of its complexity

If none of the proposed reasons worked out, you might apply to the Internet. There are a variety of websites that are ready to offer their help and do your assignment for you. Besides, if you choose a reliable service, the writers will do excellent research and get you a higher mark that will change your final results to the best.

If you or your family members have been through some health illness, you are free to attach any relevant proof. For example, medical reports or specific prescriptions. Those documents will confirm your inability to finish the tasks.

Come up with a conclusion. You can sincerely apologize again and assure the instructor that you’ll do your best not to repeat the same mistake in the future. Familiarizing yourself with time management for college students is a great way to ensure that. Remember that the closure of the writing is supposed to be delicate. You can also mention that you hope for the teacher’s understanding. In the end, indicate your name, signature, and other relevant data if necessary.

Late Assignment Letter Writing Tips

In addition to your appeal, you can use some advice. There is a chance that they would convince the instructor to agree to the extension and soften the penalties.

Be in charge of your actions. All of the teachers hate when students avoid the blame. The instructor has nothing to do with the fact that you couldn’t submit your papers on time. Moreover, accepting your fault will show them how mature and professional you are.

Be a bit more precise. Still, try not to overshare. If you’re dealing with any problems, such as mental issues or emergencies, indicate it in your letter. The truth will come up on the surface anyway, so it’s preferable to show that you were honest rather than always attending the lectures flashing from shame.

Remain polite. It’s highly recommended not to let your demons out. We all are allowed to feel emotions, but when apologizing, try not to be angry. Don’t forget to appeal with “Dear Professor Casey”, and use phrases like “Best regards” and “Sincerely”. Make sure you’re not demanding the extension, but kindly ask the teacher if he could let you have it.

Have a backup plan. Even if the advisor hasn’t answered you or you have no idea how to send an email about a late assignment, start doing the examination or thinking about the thesis.

Or put some effort into finding a professional service that provides the best accounting assignment help and specializes in various other topics so that you can use it as your backup plan. There you’ll find approachable rates and high-skilled writers. Besides, the teacher will be satisfied with the decently done homework.

Examples of Late Assignment Letters

Dear Professor (insert teacher’s name), I am (type your name), a student of the Faculty of (type the name of the faculty), of the Department of (type the name of the department). I’m emailing to express regret for missing the deadline for our weekly assignment. I value your time and care a lot about your class. The truth is, I have been extremely sick this week. My condition made it impossible to complete the work. I recognize that it is my fault that I haven’t notified you earlier, but I hoped I would get back on track within a few days and start focusing on homework when I’m feeling better. That was not clever of me, and I take full responsibility. You can see the note from my doctor in the attachments below. Again, I am so sorry for the discomfort. If you have any further questions for me, I will be glad to answer them. In case you would like to chat in person and discuss the issue, I’ll be available after classes starting next Monday. Sincere apology (indicate your name)

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Late Assignment Email to Professor

Pursuing education can sometimes be a bit demanding for the students. The need to meet deadlines and at the same time keeping up with the curriculum becomes stressful. There might be some sudden exigencies in personal life or work life that might keep a student from completing an assignment on time. Thus, if you find yourself in a similar situation where meeting a deadline seems next to impossible a question hits you; what do I do? Certainly, panicking is not going to help. The right thing to do is, inform the professor regarding your case and to make an exception by giving you an extension. An email is the best way to communicate with the professor. Here is the example for Late Assignment Email to Professor.

Once you are sure of the fact that you want an extension, you must write to your professor as soon as possible. A late assignment email must be sent from your school ID, it should have a clear subject line. Make sure you start by greeting the professor, properly. The email must be polite in its tone and precisely state the circumstances. You might want to proofread the mail before sending it out. 

The article lets into some tips and examples regarding how to draft an email for late submission of assignments. 

Reasons to Write a Late Assignment Email:

• Inform the Professor: Informing the professor in advance that you will not be able to meet the deadline, rather than submitting it after the date has passed is always a good idea. It shows that you cared about the assignment and tried your best to complete it by the assigned date. 
• Stating the Reason: When an unavoidable emergency comes up, you would want your professor to know about it. The professors do understand that juggling between certain emergencies is beyond a student’s scope. 
• Request to Give an Extension: Once you are aware that you might not be able to complete the assignment on time, you would want the professor to give you an extension. This mail should contain the details regarding your reason for asking to get an extension, the overall progress you have made with the assignment and how much time might be required to complete it. 
• An apology mail: Once you are past your deadline, it is important to draft an email addressing the same. An apology mail is required to be drafted to avoid losing out on your grades. The mail should be sincere and polite to get some leniency from the professor. 

Reasons For Not Submitting On-time:

• Due to some mix up regarding the deadline. 
• Power cutoff in your locality.
• You had some family emergency to attend to. 
• Your laptop was out of order. 
• Needed more time for research.
• A professor wouldn’t trust you if you constantly keep making excuses regarding a submission. To gain the trust of the professor, submit the assignment in the new given time frame. 

How to Draft the Mail?

• Addressing the mail: The mail should be addressed to your professor. If it is required by your school, a copy of the mail can be sent to the head of the department. Address your professor respectfully and with proper name and designation. Make sure you confirm the mail address before sending out the mail. 
• Include a subject: The subject of the mail should be clear. It can be either:
• Apology for late submission.
• Requesting an extension of the deadline. 
• Body of the Mail: Have a clarity regarding the purpose of the email. It is advisable that you get to the point. Keep the explanation simple. It is crucial that you accept your fault and sound sincere while doing so. You can start the mail by giving your introduction and then apologizing. 
• Give a Proper Reason: You need to explain it in simple terms that why you couldn’t submit the assignment on time. The professors will consider your case if you have a genuine reason. Some of the situations where the professors are usually considerate are medical issues, family exigencies, issues in time management due to work commitment, death of someone close, or any unforeseen emergency. The reason has to be stated in a concise manner, without any unnecessary justification. All you got to do is be honest. The reason should be a valid one. 
• Attachment of Certain Documents: The mail becomes more relevant when you substantiate proof of the reason for the delay. If there was a medical condition your family member went through, then you can attach the prescription or reports.
• Conclude: You can apologize again and mention that, you would not want to repeat it in your future. The ending para should give a polite closure. The end of the mail must contain your name with your professional signature and the other relevant details. 

Sample Late Assignment Mails

• Draft 1: Apology Mail for Late Assignment

To: (Insert Professor’s Mail Address)

Subject: Apologizing for the late assignment submission.  (Insert your name and number)

Dear Sir/Ma’am,

I am (Insert your Name), a student of the Department of (Insert subject). I am pursuing (Insert course name). I am aware that the deadline for submitting the assignment has passed. I submitted the assignment two days late and I am apologetic regarding the same. My grandmother fell sick and my parents were out of town. I was not able to attend her at the hospital and also, meet the deadline. I did work hard on my assignment. I don’t want my scores to be affected by this. I would be grateful if you consider my situation. This mistake won’t be repeated. 

Sincere Apologies.

(Insert your name)

(Insert your professional signature)

• Draft 2: Deadline Extension Email

To: (Insert the name of Professor)

Subject: Requesting an extension of the deadline (Insert name and number)

I am (Insert your Name), a student of the Department of (Insert subject). I am pursuing (Insert course name). While writing the assignment article, I came across some major sources of information that can give my article a different direction. I would need some more time to study those and do my best work. I request you to give me an extension of the deadline. I am sorry to have been making this request at the last moment. I promise I would not repeat this again. 

I know I should have been more careful while making my first draft and it’s my fault. But I sincerely request you to grant me this extension. I promise to do my best to submit a quality article. 

Sincere apologies. 

• Draft 3: Late Submission by a Group

To: (Insert the name of the professor)

Subject: Apology for a late submission. 

Dear Sir/Ma’am

I am (Insert your name) writing this on behalf of (Insert group number) who were required to submit the assignment on the topic (Insert topic name). We are aware that the submission date is due tomorrow. The majority of the team members are still waiting for their replies from the experts and we are not being able to draft a conclusion which the information. We request you to give an extension on the deadline. 

We apologize for not keeping such contingencies in our minds. As the group leader, I assure you such mistake would not be repeated again in the future. But we sincerely request you to grant us this extension. We promise to bring out the out best work in the given assignment. 

Sincere apologies.

(Insert group number)

(Insert professional signature)

Tips to Keep in Mind

• Keep it Brief: Beating around the bush should not be your approach while drafting this mail. Respect the limited time a professor has got and be straightforward. The mail should be of around 6-7 sentences. 
• Addressee: Make sure you use the correct email ID of your professor. Also, confirm which authority does your school wants you to send such a mail to. You can look for it in your school syllabus or the official website. 
• Politeness: It is your mistake and, thus you should have a polite tone while drafting this mail to your professor. always use the full name of your professor. Check that the beginning and the ending of your mail is appropriate. 
• Subject Line: The subject should be of one line and it should convey what your email is about. You can add your name, to make it more convenient for your professor. 
• Avoid Being Friendly: Even if you do share a friend like an equation with your professor, the mail should be drafted formally. 
• Be Honest: If truth comes out, it will have heavy consequences. Be honest about the reason for late submission. 
• Limit the Excuses: When there is a notice of the deadline beforehand, the reasons for delay might not matter. Going on and on, focusing on the excuses would make you look lazy.
• Take Responsibility: Avoid putting the blame on the professor or your school in any way. You are the one responsible for not being able to meet the deadline. Accept your own fault. 
• Assurance: The professor needs to know that he is giving you a one-time extension and you would not keep making excuses. Submit the rest of the assignments in time to show the professor that you had genuine reasons back then. 
• Plan B: Sometimes you might ask for an extension and you will not be granted one. It is always better to consider this contingency and have a first draft ready. You wouldn’t want to miss out on your grades. Do not be upset if you don’t get an extension and lose out on some marks. A professor has to take into account all the students and be fair.
• Start Working: Even if you cannot complete the assignment on time, it is always better to start working on it. You will have to submit the assignment to get at least the partial grades. The best you can do is put in efforts to submit your best work.

Missing a deadline definitely might put a student in a lot of trouble. A student would never want to be scored less or not be scored at all for an assignment. Yet it has to be kept in mind that a deadline does have some relevance. It teaches you to be more mindful and responsible. It also prepares you to deal with the world outside the institution in your workplace which would require you to meet deadlines. Don’t lose your heart if you aren’t being able to meet a deadline, you can always genuinely try to convey your reasons to the professor. 

Drafting the apology mail might not be an easy task. It needs to be concise yet sincere. The tone must be professional as well as respectful. You can also try talking to the professor in person before sending him an email. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• How to make the professor accept a late submission?

You must talk to the professor as soon as possible. Make your work exceptionally well and impress the professor with it. Always take responsibility of your mistake. The professor might be considerate if you approach him in good faith with a genuine reason. 

• What can be the consequences of late assignment submission?

At times, if the request is reasonable then the professor can grant an extension. Allowing to submit the assignment on time is in the complete discretion of the professor. For a submission that is inexcusable, as a penalty some marks might be reduced. This penalty in the form of negative marking can keep increasing every 24 hours.

• How to meet a deadline?

Go through the assignment you have got and try to get your best knowledge about it. You can also get some professional help of a tutor to understand the topic assigned to the work that is expected from you. Try not to work on it in the evening, it will make you less productive. 

• Do professors accept an assignment after the deadline?

Some professors might be lenient. They might not charge any penalty if the reason convinces them. Other professors might accept the assignment if it is crucial to the curriculum but charge some penalty and cause reduction from marks. 

Emails In English

Email Sample, Free to Use Email Templates

Email for Late Submission of Assignment – Sample Email Explaining Late Submission of Assignment

Subject: Explanation for Late Submission of Assignment

Dear _________ (Name of the Recipient ),

I am writing to inform you of the unfortunate delay in submitting my assignment titled _________ (Assignment Title), which was due on _________ (Due Date).

Due to unforeseen circumstances, including _________ (Reason for Delay), I was unable to complete and submit the assignment on time. I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this delay may have caused.

I assure you that I am committed to completing the assignment promptly and to the best of my ability. I will ensure that the quality of the work remains uncompromised despite the delay.

Thank you for your understanding and consideration.

Best regards,

_____________ (Your Name)_____________ (Your Contact Information)

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Explanation Letters

Explanation Letter for Late Submission – 8+ Sample Letters

For a lot of people, deadlines are a part of the daily work. Now, sometimes you won’t be able to keep a deadline for whichever reason. Some people have to submit reports in a timely manner , others need to be very precise when handing in their time sheets. Or maybe you’re a bit late with your thesis? Not to worry. We have made a few examples here on the site for you to draw inspiration from. And we mean – draw inspiration – these are not the holy grail of late submission letters, but should be viewed as something to get you going.

We always advise that people take the time and write their own letter since this will always be sincerer. However, sometimes it can be a little hard to get off to a running start, so to help out a bit, we have provided you with a couple of our thoughts when making a  good apology letter . Feel free to browse through, and find the one that suits you.

For Late Submission of Reports

Dear [Recipients name / Sir]

I apologize for my late submission of my report regarding [Subject], that you were supposed to have on [00 / 00 / 0000].

I understand that this causes an inconvenience in your work, since others may be dependent on my reports.

I have taken action to make sure that I will uphold my future deadlines, so this will not be a recurring event.

With my sincerest apology, and best regards;

For Late Submission of Bills

I apologize for my late payment of the bills regarding [expense], that you were supposed to have on [00 / 00 / 0000].

I ran into some unexpected issues with the payment, in form of [cause for delay].

I understand that this has consequences for the company, and I want you to know, that I have taken action to make sure that this will not happen again.

For Late Submission of Invoice

You were supposed to have received my invoice regarding [Subject]. I apologize that this was untimely. I understand that you were supposed to have the invoice on [00 / 00 / 0000].

The delay was caused by an unforeseen event, in the shape of [cause for delay]. I want you to know that I understand that this is a big inconvenience for you and the company, and I have [Action taken] to make sure that these issues will not happen again.

In hopes of your understanding and with best regards,

For Late Submission of Assignment

Dear [Sir / Madam]

I would like to apologize for the delay of my assignment regarding [Subject]. I hope that it is not too late to submit it.

I understand that this is a big inconvenience for you, and I did not mean be the cause of having to alter your schedule. In this case the delay was caused by [cause of delay], and by [action taken] I have made sure that these delayed submissions won’t happen again.

Please accept my apologies.

With best regards,

For Late Submission of Daily Time Record

Dear [Recipient]

I wish to apologize for being late on my submissions of my daily time records. I know that this is an inconvenience for you and that it puts extra strain on the company.

I meant no harm, and I have asked friends to remind me so that this will not happen again.

With my apologies and regards,

For Late Submission of Permit to Study

Dear [Name]

I hereby send you my sincerest apologies for being late with my permit to study. I know that you were supposed to have it by [00 / 00 / 0000], and I understand that this causes an inconvenience at your office.

There were some issues regarding [Cause of Delay].

I hope that it is not yet too late to submit my permit since it is a dream of mine to study at [Name of institution].

Please accept my deepest apologies.

For Late submission of Thesis

I apologize for the late submission of my thesis regarding [Subject].

I had the unfortunate pleasure of experiencing some [cause for delay].

I know that this will now require extra resources to review, because of my late submission. I hope that it is not yet too late to get my thesis reviewed.

I have spent a lot of time writing this, in order to make it reflect my skills to the best of my ability, and I, therefore, hope that you will find it of great value nonetheless.

With my apologies,

For Late Submission of Documents

You were supposed to receive some documents regarding [Subject] on [00 / 00 / 0000]. I wish to apologize for my late submission of the documents, due to [Cause of delay].

I know that this puts further strain on the company, and that extra resources now will have to be spent in order to review them. I hope, however, that I haven’t caused too much of an inconvenience, and that my apology will be accepted

With kind regards

Explanation Letter for Late Submission (Templates)

Basic Tips for Writing an Explanation Letter

When making an explanation letter for late submission, it’s always a good idea to acknowledge the fact that your tardiness has in some degree caused inconvenience to the recipient – after all, this is why you’re writing the letter in the first place. Now, the way we advise people to do it is in 3 simple steps:

• Apologize for the late submission. If you can, write when the work should have been submitted. This shows that you understand the consequences of your late submission.
• Show understanding. When someone opens a letter, explaining a late submission, the first thing that goes through their mind is always the consequence of their work. Showing that you understand this, will make you appear more sincere and thoughtful.
• Show correction. Find a specific way that you have improved, in order to make sure that you won’t be late again. If this means that you have a family member pick you up for work, a co-worker that helps you punch out or whatever.

Now, these letters are only examples, and should not be used without adjustment. We have tried to cover as many different submission letters as we could, but it will never be a 100% fit for your company or your situation. Feel free to adjust them, because after all – the sincerest apology will always be the one that comes from yourself. These letters are meant to provide you with some inspiration, not to be copy-pasted and shipped!

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