Under UH policy a student may be excused without penalty if his or her religious observances conflict with scheduled class meetings, assignments, and/or examinations. The student remains responsible for completing any needed make-up work. An instructor may not deny the opportunity for make-up work, but shall otherwise treat these absences as any other excused absence.

• For undergraduate students, see the Religious Holy Days policy in the Undergraduate Catalog.
• Graduate Students, see the Religious Holy Days policy in the Graduate Catalog.

Instructors are encouraged to detail their policies on absences in their class syllabus, clearly outlining make-up options and consequences for not complying.

What does the University of Houston recognize as a holy day?
Holy days recognized by eligible religions will be honored. The University follows state guidelines. Eligible religions are considered to be those whose places of worship are exempt from property taxes.

Do I need to inform my instructor before hand?
It is in your best interest to do so. It will give both you and your instructor a chance to outline the best ways for you to complete any needed make-up work, and minimize class disruption. The earlier in the semester you can communicate your needs, the better.

Should I bring letters, notes, or other documentation?
If your instructor's established policies include this requirement for other excused absences, then yes. This should be treated as any other excused absence.

I need to travel, and this will require additional time. Will I be penalized for that time?
For holy days, necessary travel time is considered to be part of the excused absence.

What if the instructor and I disagree about make up work, or even about whether the time I took off should be excused?
For undergraduate students, either you or the instructor may appeal to the Office of Undergraduate Academic Affairs. For graduate students, either you or the instructor may appeal to the Graduate School. All parties must abide by the decision of that office.

For further information about state law, please see the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Administrative Code §4.4 Student Absences on Religious Holy Days; or contact the offices of the Office of Undergraduate Academic Affairs, the Dean of Students, and/or the A.D. Bruce Religion Center to review the policy.