Missing a test is one of the worst things you can do in college.  For many faculty, there is no excuse for missing a test and you will be given a zero for your grade.

There are some legitimate reasons you might miss a test:

•  You are very seriously ill or hurt (generally in the hospital)
• You had a death in your immediate family
• You’re representing your university at some event (e.g. sports)

Should you need to miss a test, here is what you need to do:

•  Notify your teacher as soon as you know you will not be able to do the test.  You may need someone in your family to do this if you are unable.  Let your teacher know the circumstances.
• If you know in advance you are going to miss a test because you are representing your university, your teacher may want you to take the test early.
• Many universities have an office (e.g. student life) that might also help you communicate with your teacher.

What should you do if you can take the test, but you are sick.  You should notify your teacher.  Each teacher has a different approach to such situations.

Should you miss a test for any reason that was avoidable (e.g. forgot the test, overslept), you are at the mercy of your teacher as to whether you can make up the test.

You need to have a fail safe system so that you won’t miss a test.  This could be alarms, reminders from friends or parents, or other approaches..