Pregnancy, Caregiving & Parenting Academic Support Guide 

This guide was created by TMAPS executives and staff and explains the current academic supports available to pregnant and parenting students at TMU and how to access them. This page updates as new policies and resources become available. Please contact our Vice-President of Equity & Campaigns at vp.equity@tmaps.ca if you would like to share information to update this guide.

Who is this guide for?

  • Pregnant students
  • Parenting students
  • Students caring for a dependent

Suggestion

Consider informing your home program advisor or instructor that you are managing a health condition (pregnancy, or describe it however you feel is appropriate). Let them know you may require assistance if complications arise.

Academic Consideration Policies to Reference

Academic Consideration (Policy 167)

TMU uses Academic Consideration for short-term academic disruptions, including pregnancy-related symptoms, medical appointments, and caregiving responsibilities. Even if these situations do not formally qualify as extenuating circumstances, students are still encouraged to submit an Academic Consideration Request and reach out to their instructor or program advisor to explain their situation and discuss available options.

For more information: https://www.torontomu.ca/registrar/academic-consideration/

Academic Considerations can be used in Two Ways

A) Academic Consideration Request (ACR) – No Documentation: Commonly used for unexpected or short-term issues with one request per semester without documentation (except final exams). It may apply to academic requirements affected during that time.

Submit ACR: https://www.torontomu.ca/senate/academic_consideration_requests/ 

Steps:

  1. Submit ACR online
  2. Select affected course(s)
  3. Describe situation
  4. Email your instructor to arrange accommodations once verification is complete.

 

 

B) Additional Academic Consideration Requests (Documentation Required): Students can submit additional ACRs if pregnancy or caregiving needs arise during the semester, but these require documentation (e.g., a medical note or appointment confirmation).

Each Request:

  • Should be submitted as soon as possible in advance of the due date for academic requirement(s)
  • Covers a specific timeframe, which could include multiple course components from different courses
  • Requires contacting each instructor individually (if overwhelmed, request assistance from the program advisor)

Accommodations:

  • Deadline extensions
  • Make-up assessments
  • Adjusted grading
  • Incomplete (INC) grades

Physical Support (Lactation/Infant feeding room)

TMU provides a private infant feeding room.

Location: DCC-655, Daphne Cockwell Health Sciences Complex

Room info

Register online to use your OneCard

On-Campus Support

These offices can help you navigate academic processes and access support.

  • Student Well-being Centre: Support mental health and help navigate care.

  • Medical Centre: Provide medical appointments, care, and documentation.

  • Academic Advising: Helps with course planning, reduces course loads, and provides academic pathways. Students enrolled in a program are encouraged to contact their program advisor as a first point of contact for academic concerns and support with communicating with instructors.

Early On Center

Free programs for parents/caregivers and children (birth–6 years old) that provide play-based learning while supporting families and connecting them to community resources.

TMU Childhood Resource Consultation Program

Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Every Child Belongs Resource Consultation Program is dedicated to advocating for and creating an inclusive, high quality early learning and care system that is rich in learning opportunities for all children. Inclusive early learning and care means that:

  • Each family has the opportunity to access an early learning program of their choice.
  • All children and families are welcomed into the center and are treated in a thoughtful and respectful way.
  • Consultations are available.

 

Licensed Daycare

Search for Licensed Childcare Providers near you:

Join multiple waitlists early!

Child Care Fee Subsidy
Financial support from your local area that helps cover a portion of your licensed daycare fees if you qualify. Learn More Here

Additional Resources