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.
If you’re unsure whether these circumstances qualify, contact your instructor, program advisor, or TMAPS Students Rights Coordinator for guidance on the appropriate process.
For more information: www.torontomu.ca/registrar/academic-consideration/
Academic Considerations can be used in Two Ways
A) Academic Consideration Request (ACR) – No Documentation: Students may submit one eligible ACR per term without supporting documentation. This excludes final exams and final assessments. Documentation is also required for temporary absences exceeding three days. Students with longer needs are encouraged to consult their program Director.
Submit ACR: https://www.torontomu.ca/senate/academic_consideration_requests/
Steps:
- Submit ACR online
- Select affected course(s)
- Describe the situation
- Email your instructor to arrange accommodations. After verification is complete, follow up with your instructor to discuss whether consideration is approved and what alternative arrangements can be made.
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
- Rescheduling or reweighting an assessment
- Incomplete (INC) grades
Students who need ongoing academic arrangements related to pregnancy or parent/child caregiving responsibilities can discuss their needs with their instructor or their home program administrator. Arrangements depend on individual circumstances. If students feel that no accommodations are being provided or there is no consideration of their pregnancy, students should consult with the Human Rights Services Office.
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.