MIT's Religious Exemptions Policy

Dear students,

Religious observances can occasionally conflict with classes or exams. We write to share with you the Institute policy relating to academics and religious observance by students. Massachusetts law regarding student absence due to religious beliefs has been adopted by the Institute as follows:

"Any student who is unable to attend classes or participate in any examination, study, or work requirement on a particular day because of his or her religious beliefs is excused from any such activity. The student will be given the opportunity to make up the work that was missed, provided that the makeup work does not create an unreasonable burden upon MIT…The Institute will not level fees or charges of any kind when allowing the student to make up missed work. In addition, students will suffer no adverse or prejudicial effects because they have made use of these provisions." (from Section 9.10.2 of MIT’s Policies and Procedures)

MIT encourages all members of the community to express their beliefs freely. We are committed to equal opportunity in education and employment as outlined in the nondiscrimination policy here.

Students observing religious holidays should contact their instructors about conflicts with upcoming classes or exams. We also suggest contacting Student Support Services (for undergraduate students) or the Office of Graduate Education (for graduate students) to discuss the specifics of your situation and get support for your request. The Chair of the Faculty is also available to provide assistance. In addition, you may contact Chaplain Boswell-Ford by email or phone (617-254-5484).

The Registrar’s Office and the Office of Religious, Spiritual, and Ethical Life (ORSEL) have created this partial listing of religious holidays for reference.

Best regards,

Suzy M. Nelson
Vice President and Dean for Student Life

Rev. Kirstin C. Boswell-Ford
Chaplain to the Institute and Director, Office of Religious, Spiritual, and Ethical Life