Policy for Students on the Accommodation of Religious observances (PRVPA-1)
Introduction
Concordia University welcomes diversity and places a high value on inclusion and respect for differences. When accommodations are required for religious observances and holidays, instructors and students are encouraged to work together to find reasonable accommodations that will support the student’s advancement, without unreasonably interfering with academic requirements.
Policy overview
In order to respect diversity and comply with the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms, this policy outlines how accommodations are made for religious observances. It details various processes and conditions that must be followed when submitting requests related to religious observances.
FAQ
What are the deadlines when submitting a request for an accommodation, and who should I submit my request to?
When classes, assignments or in-class examinations are affected by a religious observance, requests must be made in writing to the instructor of the course in question 1 week prior to the course’s DNE date (identified in the University Calendar). Requests that fail to provide such notice may be reviewed by instructors in exceptional circumstances, and may cause academic delays or be refused altogether.
In the case of centrally supervised final examinations, requests must be made in writing to the Examinations Office prior to the deadline provided to students once the final examination schedule has been posted.
What kind of accommodation could be offered if my request is accepted?
When a request is accepted, reasonable alternative arrangements must be made that do not put the student at an unreasonable disadvantage. This can include rescheduling the academic requirement or
preparing an alternative evaluation. Other accommodations are possible at the instructor's discretion, in a way that does not cause undue hardship for the university.
How do I know if my religious observance is recognized by the university?
Though most requests represent either the Jewish, Muslim, or Christian faith, Concordia also refers to the Interfaith Calendar when reviewing requests from other religions.