Extension Policy

ACAD-POL-001

I. Policy Statement

RIT Certified recognizes that learners may occasionally encounter unexpected challenges that impact their ability to complete coursework on time. This policy outlines the procedures by which learners may request limited extensions to course assessment deadlines or course end dates, and the conditions under which such extensions may be granted.

II. Scope

This policy shall apply except where alternative terms have been established through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for e-commerce or corporate training, which may include unique completion timelines or extension provisions negotiated with partner organizations.

III. Definitions

An extension is an approved additional period of time granted to a learner beyond a published assessment due date or course end date, during which the learner may submit remaining work for evaluation.

IV. Requesting an Extension

  • Learners must request an extension by emailing the course instructor as listed in the course materials.
  • Requests must include a brief explanation of the reason for the extension.
  • Instructors are expected to review and respond to extension requests within two (2) business days of receipt. If additional time is needed to make a determination, instructors must notify the learner with an anticipated response timeline.

V. Course End Date Extensions

  • Learners may request a course end date extension no earlier than halfway through the course and no later than five (5) calendar days before the published course end date.
  • Extension requests submitted fewer than 5 days before the end date will not be considered.
  • At the instructor's discretion, and with approval from the RIT Certified Academic Director, a maximum extension of 48 hours beyond the course end date may be granted.
  • Instructors must email approved course extension decisions to certified@rit.edu at least two (2) days prior to the scheduled course end date and notify the learner of the approval.

VI. Course Assignment/Assessment Extensions

  • Extensions are granted at the sole discretion of the instructor.
  • Deadlines may be extended to no later than 2 calendar days after the course end date.

VII. Self-Paced Courses

In self-paced courses without assessment due dates or active instructional facilitation, extensions are not applicable. Learners must complete all materials by the stated course end date.

VIII. Final Grades

  • Instructors remain responsible for evaluating any work submitted during an approved extension period.
  • Grade submission deadlines do not change based on learner extensions. Grades must be submitted within seven (7) calendar days of the original course end date.

IX. Denied Extensions and Appeals

Learners who are denied an extension may request a review by emailing certified@rit.edu. The RIT Certified Academic team will assess the case and provide determination.

Policy History

  • October 16, 2024 – Policy Created
  • December 11, 2025 – Policy Approved
  • January 1, 2026 – Policy Implemented
  • December 1, 2026 – Planned Annual Review