Email to a Professor: Extension Request Templates (Polite + Direct)

Professional email templates for requesting assignment extensions from professors. Learn what to include, when to ask, and how to write effective extension requests.

What to Include in an Extension Request

A good extension request should include:

Essential elements:

• Assignment name: Clearly identify which assignment
• Original due date: Reference the current deadline
• Requested new date: Specific date you're requesting
• Brief explanation: Reason for the request (without oversharing)
• Acknowledgment: Understand extension may not be granted
• Contact information: Your name, student ID, course information

Helpful additions:

• Progress update (if you've started the assignment)
• Alternative proposal (if your first date doesn't work)
• Apology for inconvenience
• Promise to complete as soon as possible

When to Use Each Template

Polite Extension Request: Use for most situations - respectful and complete.

Due to Illness: Use when you're sick or have a medical issue.

Due to Emergency: Use for unexpected emergencies or crises.

With Progress Update: Use when you've made progress but need more time.

Brief Request: Use for simple, straightforward requests.

Alternative Proposal: Use when you want to propose a specific date.

Multiple Assignments: Use when requesting extensions on multiple assignments.

After Deadline: Use when requesting permission to submit late.

Subject Lines for Extension Requests

Standard format:

• "Extension Request - [Assignment Name]"
• "Extension Request - [Course Name]"
• "Extension Request - [Assignment] - [Course]"

Urgent:

• "URGENT: Extension Request - [Assignment]"
• "Extension Request - Emergency"

Late:

• "Late Extension Request - [Assignment]"
• "Late Submission Request - [Assignment]"

Best practices:

• Include assignment name
• Be clear and specific
• Use "URGENT" only if truly urgent
• Keep it professional

Best Practices

• Request early: Ask as far in advance as possible
• Be honest: Provide a brief, honest explanation
• Be respectful: Show respect for the professor's time and policies
• Accept consequences: Understand there may be penalties
• Follow up: If granted, thank them and submit on time

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't:

• Wait until the last minute
• Make up excuses
• Be demanding or entitled
• Request extensions for every assignment
• Forget to include assignment details

Do:

• Request as early as possible
• Be honest about your reason
• Be respectful and professional
• Accept if extension is denied
• Submit on time if extension is granted

Best Practices

• Request early: Ask as far in advance as possible
• Be honest: Provide brief, honest explanation
• Be respectful: Show respect for policies
• Accept consequences: Understand there may be penalties
• Follow through: Submit on time if extension is granted

Related Resources

For more guidance on professional email communication:

• Follow-up Email Templates - Templates for follow-ups
• Professional Email Templates - Browse all professional templates
• Inbox Zero Guide - Learn email management strategies