Accommodations for Students Observing Ramadan and Reminder on Scheduling of Final Exams
From Dr. Jean Morrison, University Provost and Chief Academic Officer
As we approach the conclusion of the academic year, I would like to raise to your attention the fact that Ramadan, the month of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide, overlaps with the finals period of the spring semester. This year’s observance extends from Monday, April 12, to Wednesday, May 12. I would encourage you to refer to the Boston University Policy on Religious Observance in determining how to provide accommodation if requested by Muslim students.
One reasonable approach might be that Muslim students requesting accommodation not be required to take more than one exam in a 24-hour period. Faculty members may also wish to allow Muslim students to take their exams earlier in the day, rather than at the end of a day of fasting. As with other religions with traditional observances that coincide with the exam period, students and faculty should work together to reach a reasonable accommodation that fits with their particular situation and abides by the University Policy on Religious Observance.
Please feel free to contact the Religious Life Office (617-353-3560, chapel@bu.edu) for advice on making accommodations for religious observance in these or any other circumstances.
Additionally, I would like to point everyone back to the guidance we provided in January for the scheduling of final exams. With the continuation of the Learn from Anywhere (LfA) model for the spring 2021 semester, the Office of the Registrar provides these important reminders:
- Classes offered in the LfA format must have a remote option for final exams, while classes that are fully remote must offer fully remote exams;
- The final exam period ends Saturday, May 8, and faculty will have until Friday, May 14 to complete grading;
- The Schedules Department can change an exam location from a classroom to remote if desired. Please note: requests for location changes must be submitted by the appropriate dean’s office.
The final exam schedule and policy can be found on the Office of the Registrar website.
Accommodations for Students Observing Ramadan and Reminder on Scheduling of Final Exams – 3.22.21