Do I have a right to get an extension?

A reader writes:

"I have a 10 page paper due for my composition class this Friday. I planned to work on it over Thanksgiving and the weekend, but my grandfather passed away this morning. My family knew he had a few days to live, so all week I have not been able to focus on writing my paper. 

Because my grandfather passed away, do I have a right to ask my professor if I can have a day or two of extended time to hand in my paper? Or will I not have any rights in asking that?"

I'm sorry that you lost your grandfather. I know it is difficult losing someone in your family.

Now, do you have a right to an extension? As a first generation or low income college student, it is important to know your rights and responsibilities as a college student. In this case, it will probably depend on the individual professor as well as the rules and regulations at your school. Chances are you can absolutely ask for an extension, but it is totally up to the professor whether or not you are granted an extension.

But if you don't ask, you won't get it. There is no harm in asking for an extension, you probably just don't have an express right to be given one. So be prepared not to be given an extension and take the consequences of that like an adult.

Also, if you are having an understandably difficult time concentrating after the death of a loved one, I would suggest visiting the counseling center at your college. This has two main advantages. One, you can get some support to help you grieve this loss. Two, It can help your case when asking for that extension.

One more caution, be aware that having a grandparent die is one of the most common lies that college students tell professors when asking for an extension. It boils down to being prepared to prove you did in fact lose a grandparent. Harsh, but sometimes required because of all the liars and cheaters that came before you. Good luck.

Got questions? Please feel free to ask The Advisor about it.