Understanding K-State's absence policy and resources for students and faculty
When students miss class, understanding how absences are handled at Kansas State University can help prevent confusion and support academic success.
Faculty members set and enforce their own attendance guidelines, which are outlined in each course syllabus. The impact of absences varies from class to class, making communication between students and instructors essential.
K-State’s attendance policy, outlined in section F62 of the University Handbook, groups absences into three categories: excused, verified and other. In fall 2024, the policy expanded to include appointments with specialists and severe health concerns, such as hospitalization, as types of excused absences.
Excused absences
Excused absences cover circumstances that significantly impact a student’s ability to attend class. Some types of excused absences can be verified through Student Support and Accountability. These include:
- Military service
- Court appearances
- Pregnancy, childbirth or adoption
- Religious observances
- Specialist appointments and severe health concerns, including hospitalization
- Disability reasonable accommodations
- University-sponsored extracurricular activities
- Weather events
- Universitywide special programming or events
Verification for these absences comes from different sources. For example, disability-related absences are verified by the Student Access Center, while extracurricular activities are verified by the sponsoring department or organization. When an excused absence is verified through the proper channel, instructors must provide opportunities to make up or excuse missed assignments, activities and attendance-specific points.
Verified absences
Not all absences fall under the excused category. Verified absences include situations like short-term illness, funerals, minor accidents or emergency circumstances. Students are not required to have these absences officially verified through Student Support and Accountability, but they are encouraged to communicate directly with instructors. Faculty members are also encouraged to be flexible and allow students to make up work when appropriate.
If absences become prolonged or complex, students can work with Student Support and Accountability to verify the situation and help coordinate communication with instructors. Upon receiving a verified absence notice, instructors are encouraged to consider accommodations for missed graded work.
Other absences
Absences related to personal commitments, such as family vacations, weddings or job interviews, fall into a third category. These are handled entirely at the instructor's discretion. While students are encouraged to discuss these situations with their faculty early in the semester, instructors are not required to adjust.
Tips for students
- Contact instructors early. Students should reach out to faculty as soon as they anticipate or experience an absence. Emailing in a professional and timely manner is recommended, and the Academic Achievement Center offers an email etiquette guide for assistance.
- Check the syllabus. Each course syllabus outlines attendance expectations and preferred communication methods, such as email, Canvas messages, or office hours.
- Seek additional help. Students facing extended absences or personal challenges can meet with Student Support and Accountability to problem-solve and connect with campus resources.
Resources for faculty and staff
Faculty and staff with concerns about a student’s attendance, well-being or academic progress can submit a student of concern referral form. This process helps connect students with the resources they need to stay on track.
For questions about absences or guidance on navigating complex situations, students and faculty can contact Student Support and Accountability at studentsupport@k-state.edu or 785-532-6432. The office monitors emails from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.