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:
- Submit ACR online
- Select affected course(s)
- Describe situation
- 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
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.
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
- Postpartum Support International (Online Support Groups)
- Human Rights Services at TMU – if you feel discriminated against on the basis of your pregnancy or family status, or other protected human rights ground, contact Human Rights Services.
- Ombudsperson’s Office at TMU – if you have any concerns related to fairness, consult the Ombudsperson’s Office for assistance.
- TMAPS Student Rights Coordinator – get support with any academic complaint or appeal process at TMU.