When you need to miss class due to illness, sending a clear and polite email to your professor is essential. When illness prevents you from attending class, a clear and courteous email to your professor serves three important purposes: it maintains your academic integrity, demonstrates responsibility for your coursework, and helps ensure you receive necessary accommodations. A professional sick email should be concise yet informative, providing just enough detail about your absence while showing respect for your professor’s time. This communication not only keeps you in good standing but often makes it easier to arrange for missed assignments or lectures.
When to Email Your Professor About Being Sick
- You’re too ill to attend class (fever, contagious sickness, severe symptoms)
- You have a medical appointment that conflicts with class
- You need to request an extension on an assignment due to illness
- You’ll miss an exam or presentation
Best practices:
Send the email early (before class starts if possible)
Be concise but clear (professors get many emails)
Attach documentation if required (doctor’s note, hospital discharge)
Offer to make up missed work
What to avoid:
❌ Oversharing personal details
❌ Making excuses without explanation
❌ Waiting days to notify your professor
What to Include in a Sick Email
Professional closing (“Sincerely, [Your Name]”)Below are 47 ready-to-use email templates for various sick-day scenarios, from short-term illnesses to doctor-advised absences.
Clear subject line (e.g., “Absence Due to Illness – [Your Name]”)
Polite greeting (“Dear Professor [Last Name]”)
Reason for absence (briefly explain without TMI)
Specific dates you’ll miss
Plan for catching up (e.g., getting notes, submitting work late)
1. General Sick Day Notification (With Doctor’s Note)
Subject: Absence Notification – [Your Name] – [Course Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I wanted to inform you that I am feeling unwell and will not be able to attend class today. I have attached a doctor’s note for your records. Please let me know if there is any material I should review to stay on track.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Student ID (if required)]
2. Short Notice Sick Day (No Doctor’s Note)
Subject: Unable to Attend Class Today – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m sorry for the late notice, but I am feeling ill and won’t be able to attend today’s lecture. I will review the notes from a classmate and catch up on any missed assignments.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. Multi-Day Absence Due to Illness
Subject: Extended Absence – [Your Name] – [Course Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
Unfortunately, I am dealing with an illness and will need to miss class for the next [number] days, as advised by my doctor. I will do my best to keep up with coursework and will reach out if I need clarification on any material.
Please let me know if there are any specific assignments I should prioritize.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
4. Fever/Contagious Illness (Precautionary Absence)
Subject: Sick Leave Notification – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I have developed a fever and believe it would be best to avoid attending class to prevent spreading illness. I will return as soon as I recover and will make up any missed work.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best,
[Your Name]
5. Requesting Assignment/Exam Rescheduling
Subject: Request to Reschedule [Assignment/Exam] – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
Due to illness, I will not be able to attend class on [date] and will miss the scheduled [exam/assignment submission]. Would it be possible to arrange an alternative date?
I appreciate your flexibility and will provide a doctor’s note if needed.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
6. Apology for Last-Minute Notice
Subject: Last-Minute Absence – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I sincerely apologize for the late notice, but I woke up feeling very unwell and will not be able to attend today’s class. I will review the material and complete any missed work promptly.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
7. Follow-Up After Missing Class
Subject: Follow-Up on Missed Class – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up regarding my absence on [date] due to illness. Could you kindly let me know if there were any important announcements or assignments I should prioritize?
Thank you for your help!
Best,
[Your Name]
8. Doctor-Appointed Rest (Extended Recovery)
Subject: Medical Absence – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
My doctor has advised me to rest for [number] days due to [brief reason, if comfortable sharing]. I will do my best to stay updated on coursework and will reach out if I need assistance.
Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
9. Non-Contagious Illness (Pain/Fatigue)
Subject: Unable to Attend – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I am dealing with a non-contagious but debilitating illness today and won’t be able to attend class. I will review the lecture notes and complete any assignments as soon as possible.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
10. Requesting Lecture Notes/Materials
Subject: Request for Missed Materials – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
Due to illness, I missed today’s lecture. Could you please share any slides or notes, or direct me to a classmate who might have them?
I appreciate your help!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Next Batch of Professional Sick Day Email Templates (11-20)
Continuing from the previous set, here are 10 more structured and professional email templates to notify your professor about an illness-related absence.
11. Sudden Illness (Same-Day Notice)
Subject: Immediate Absence – [Your Name] – [Course Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m writing to inform you that I’ve fallen ill unexpectedly and won’t be able to attend today’s class. I will review the material and complete any missed work as soon as possible.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
12. Requesting Lecture Recordings (If Available)
Subject: Request for Lecture Recording – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
Due to illness, I’ll be unable to attend today’s lecture. If recordings or slides are available, could you please share them? I want to ensure I don’t fall behind.
I appreciate your help!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
13. Severe Illness (Hospitalization/Extended Recovery)
Subject: Extended Medical Absence – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’ve been advised by my doctor to take an extended leave due to [brief reason, if comfortable]. I expect to return by [date] and will coordinate with you on missed assignments.
Please let me know how I can stay updated.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
14. Stomach Flu/Food Poisoning
Subject: Absence Due to Illness – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m experiencing severe stomach flu/food poisoning and won’t be able to attend class today. I’ll catch up on notes and assignments once I recover.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best,
[Your Name]
15. Chronic Illness Flare-Up (For Students with Pre-Existing Conditions)
Subject: Absence Due to Health Condition – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
My [chronic condition, e.g., migraines/asthma] has flared up, requiring me to rest today. I’ll review any missed material and complete assignments promptly.
Please let me know if documentation is needed.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
16. Contagious Illness (Precautionary Absence)
Subject: Sick Leave – Avoiding Spread – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’ve developed [symptoms, e.g., fever/cough] and am avoiding campus to prevent spreading illness. I’ll return once symptom-free and will catch up on work.
Thank you for your flexibility.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
17. Mental Health Day (If Appropriate for Your Institution)
Subject: Absence Notification – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m taking a necessary day to focus on my well-being and will not attend class today. I’ll review the material independently and submit any due work.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
18. Follow-Up After Extended Absence
Subject: Catching Up After Illness – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’ve returned after recovering from illness and wanted to check if there are specific assignments/readings I should prioritize. I’ll also connect with classmates for notes.
Thank you for your guidance!
Best,
[Your Name]
19. Allergies/Severe Cold
Subject: Unable to Attend – Severe Allergies/Cold – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m dealing with severe [allergies/cold symptoms] and won’t be in class today. I’ll review the material and complete any missed tasks.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
20. Group Project Notification (If Your Absence Affects Others)
Subject: Illness Notification – [Group Project Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’ve fallen ill and won’t be able to attend today’s group meeting. I’ve notified my teammates and will contribute remotely if possible.
Please let me know if alternative arrangements are needed.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
21. Migraine/Headache Absence
Subject: Unable to Attend – Medical Issue – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m experiencing a severe migraine today that makes it impossible to focus or attend class. I’ll review the lecture materials once I recover and will complete any assignments by their due dates.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Course Name/Section]
22. Respiratory Illness (Cold/Flu)
Subject: Absence Due to Respiratory Illness – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’ve come down with a respiratory infection with [coughing/sneezing] symptoms and believe it’s best to avoid spreading germs in class. I plan to return on [date] once I’ve recovered.
Please let me know if there’s important material I should prioritize.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
23. Medical Procedure Notification
Subject: Medical Absence on [Date] – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m writing to inform you that I’ll need to miss class on [date] for a scheduled medical procedure. My doctor anticipates I’ll need [number] days of recovery before returning.
I’ll coordinate with classmates to stay current with coursework during my absence.
Thank you for your accommodation.
Best,
[Your Name]
24. Contagious Infection (Strep Throat, etc.)
Subject: Contagious Illness Notification – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’ve been diagnosed with [strep throat/pink eye/etc.] and am under doctor’s orders to avoid public spaces until [date]. I’ve attached the medical note for your records.
I’ll review the missed material independently.
Thank you for understanding this health precaution.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
25. Follow-Up After Hospitalization
Subject: Returning After Medical Leave – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m now recovering from my recent hospitalization and plan to return to class on [date]. Could we schedule a time to discuss how best to catch up on the [number] weeks I missed?
I’ve attached the doctor’s release note and am ready to complete any make-up work.
Thank you for your support during this time.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
26. Chronic Condition Flare-Up
Subject: Absence Due to [Condition] Flare-Up – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
My [IBS/fibromyalgia/etc.] has flared up unexpectedly, requiring me to miss today’s class. These episodes typically last [timeframe], and I’ll return as soon as I’m able.
I’m happy to provide medical documentation if needed.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
27. Family Illness Notification
Subject: Absence Due to Family Health Matter – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I need to care for a sick family member today and will be unable to attend class. I expect to return on [date] and will complete any missed work promptly.
Thank you for your flexibility during this family situation.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
28. COVID-19 Related Absence
Subject: COVID-19 Precautions Absence – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m experiencing [COVID symptoms/have been exposed] and am following university health guidelines by isolating until [date]. I’ve attached my test results for documentation.
I’ll access course materials online and submit work remotely when possible.
Please advise if there are specific protocols I should follow.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
29. Injury-Related Absence
Subject: Injury Recovery Absence – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m recovering from a [sprain/break/surgery] that makes commuting difficult this week. My doctor expects I’ll be mobile again by [date].
I’ll coordinate with classmates for notes and complete assignments remotely if possible.
Thank you for your accommodation.
Best,
[Your Name]
30. Stress-Related Absence
Subject: Health-Related Absence – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m taking a necessary day to address health matters and will miss today’s class. I plan to review the material independently and will complete any due assignments.
Thank you for your understanding of this health need.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Here are your requested email templates (31-40) formatted professionally while preserving your exact original text:
31. Doctor-Advised Absence
Subject: Unable to Attend Class – Medical Advice
Dear Professor [Name],
I just wanted to let you know that I will not be able to make it in today. I’m sick and my doctor told me not to come in unless it’s a dire emergency. I apologize for missing class. I’ll try to catch up on the reading when I’m feeling better!
Thank you for understanding,
[Your Name]
32. Request to Reschedule Test
Subject: Absence Notification + Test Reschedule Request
Dear Professor,
I am writing to let you know that I will not be able to make it to class today. I have a cold and am feeling quite ill. I would like to reschedule my test for another day if that is possible. I will see you next week.
Thank you!
[Your Name]
33. Follow-Up After Missing Class
Subject: Apologies for Missing Class – [Date]
Dear [Professor Name],
I am writing to express my apologies for missing class on Tuesday. I was feeling under the weather and didn’t want to spread this around the classroom! Please know that I will make up the work that we missed.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
34. General Illness Notification
Subject: Absence on [Date] Due to Illness
Dear Professor,
I am writing to inform you that I will be out of class on [date] due to illness. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
[Your Name]
35. Serious Illness Notification
Subject: Extended Absence Due to Illness
Dear Professor [Name],
I am writing to inform you that I will not be able to attend class due to illness. The nature of my illness is quite serious and will require several days of rest and recovery.
I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you or your students, but I hope it will be clear that this decision was made with the best interests of my health in mind.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
36. Non-Contagious Pain-Related Absence
Subject: Unable to Attend Due to Medical Condition
Dear Professor,
I am writing to let you know that I will be sick and unable to attend your class today. My illness is not contagious, but it is very painful and I don’t think I would be able to concentrate on the lecture or participate in the discussion.
I am very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. Please know that I will do my best to make up any missed assignments by the end of the week.
Thank you so much for your understanding!
[Your Name]
37. Last-Minute Illness Notification
Subject: Last-Minute Absence – Illness
Dear Professor [Name],
I am writing to inform you that I will not be attending class today due to illness. My apologies for this last-minute notice. I hope to see you tomorrow.
Thank you for understanding, and I wish you a speedy recovery!
[Your Name]
38. Request for Absence Instructions
Subject: Need Guidance for Medical Absence
Dear Professor,
I was hoping you could help me out with some information. I’m sick and need to take a few days off to recover. Could you please let me know if there are any steps I need to take to get a few days off?
I really appreciate your help.
[Your Name]
39. Child Illness (for Student Parents)
Subject: Absence Due to Child’s Illness – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
My child has come down with [contagious illness] and I need to stay home to care for them today. Our pediatrician has provided a note (attached) recommending isolation until [date].
I’ll review the lecture materials during this time and submit any assignments electronically if possible.
Thank you for your flexibility.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
40. Autoimmune Flare-Up
Subject: Absence Due to Health Condition – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m experiencing a flare-up of my [autoimmune condition] that requires me to rest today. These episodes typically last [timeframe], and I’ll return as soon as I’m able.
I’m happy to provide documentation from my specialist if needed. I’ll coordinate with classmates to stay current with coursework during this time.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
41. Dental Emergency
Subject: Absence Due to Dental Emergency – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m experiencing a severe dental emergency that requires immediate treatment today. I’ll need to miss class to address this painful condition.
I’ll obtain notes from a classmate and complete any missed assignments promptly. Please let me know if there’s specific material I should review.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Course Name/Section]
42. Respiratory Allergy Attack
Subject: Absence Due to Severe Allergies – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’m currently experiencing a debilitating allergy attack that makes attending class impossible today. My doctor has adjusted my medication and recommends rest.
I’ll review the lecture materials once my symptoms improve. Please let me know if there are announcements I should note.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
43. Medical Transport Issue
Subject: Transportation Barrier Due to Medical Condition – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
My [chronic condition] has flared up, making it unsafe for me to commute to campus today. I’m working with [disability services/medical transport] to resolve this.
I’ll access course materials online and submit assignments remotely. Please advise if alternative arrangements are needed.
Thank you for your accommodation.
Best,
[Your Name]
44. Preventative Quarantine
Subject: Precautionary Quarantine Absence – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
While not currently symptomatic, I’ve been exposed to [contagious illness] and am quarantining per health guidelines until [date].
I’ll participate remotely if possible and will complete all assignments on time. Please let me know if you need documentation.
Thank you for supporting campus health measures.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
45. Medical Appointment Conflict
Subject: Unavoidable Medical Appointment – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I must attend a critical medical appointment during class time on [date] that couldn’t be rescheduled. I’ve attached the physician’s scheduling confirmation.
I’ll obtain comprehensive notes and complete all assignments ahead of schedule. Please advise if you need additional information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
46. Recurring Medical Treatment
Subject: Regular Treatment Schedule Notification – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
As part of my ongoing treatment for [condition], I have weekly medical appointments every [day] at [time]. While I’ll attend class when possible, I may occasionally need to miss the full session.
I’ve registered this accommodation with [disability office] but wanted to personally notify you. I’ll always obtain notes and complete work promptly.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
47. Final Session Illness Notification
Subject: Unable to Attend Final Session – [Your Name]
Dear Professor [Last Name],
I’ve developed [symptoms] and my doctor has advised against attending our final class. I’m particularly disappointed to miss this session.
I’ve arranged with [classmate] to collect all materials and will complete any final assignments remotely if permitted. Please let me know if special arrangements are needed.
Thank you for your flexibility during this semester.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Key Reminders:
- Timing matters: Send emails as early as possible.
- Documentation: Attach a doctor’s note if required by your institution.
- Tone: Stay polite and professional.
