Religious Accommodation at Drexel University

Drexel University is committed to supporting the diverse religious and spiritual practices of its community. Students are entitled to reasonable accommodations when class, exams, or assignments conflict with religious observances.

What the Policy Says

  • Faculty Responsibility: Professors are expected to reasonably accommodate students’ religious observances in course scheduling.

  • Student Responsibility: Students should notify their instructors well in advance of any absences or conflicts due to religious observance.

  • Collaboration: The student and instructor should work together to develop mutually agreed-upon and reasonable accommodations.

  • If Issues Arise: If accommodations cannot be agreed upon, students may appeal to the dean of their college or school.

📖 Read the full policy here →
📖 Religious Observances Calendar & Academic Accommodations →

Why It Matters

Drexel recognizes that on important or solemn religious days, some students will have practices that preclude them from attending classes or completing coursework. The University encourages all faculty, staff, and peers to accommodate and respect these observances.

How to Ask for an Accommodation

Here’s a sample email you can copy and send to your professors:

Subject: Request for Religious Accommodation

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I am writing to inform you that I will be observing the holidays listed bellow, which may prevent me from attending class or completing coursework on that day.

Drexel University’s policy asks students to notify their instructors of any anticipated absences for religious observances and to work together with faculty to establish reasonable accommodations. I would appreciate the opportunity to make alternative arrangements for any classwork, assignments, or exams that may be affected.

Thank you for your understanding.

Holidays and dates:

Rosh Hashanah
Begins sunset Mon, Sept 22 – Ends nightfall Wed, Sept 24

Yom Kippur
Begins sunset Wed, Oct 1 – Ends nightfall Thurs, Oct 2

Sukkot
Begins sunset Mon, Oct 6 – Ends nightfall Wed, Oct 8

Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah
Begins sunset Mon, Oct 13 – Ends nightfall Wed, Oct 15

If you have any questions regarding holiday observances, feel free to contact Rabbi Menny Greenberg. [email protected] - 915-861-8923

Best,
[Your Full Name]
[Course Name & Section]

👉 Tip for Students: Send this email early in the term—ideally within the first few weeks—so your professors have enough time to plan accommodations.

 

Questions?

If you have any questions regarding holiday observances or need support navigating the process, feel free to contact:

Rabbi Menny Greenberg
📧 [email protected]
📱 915-861-8923