Summary

The Policy on Academic Accommodation for Religious, Indigenous, and Spiritual Observances (RISO) ensures that students at the University can observe their religious, Indigenous, or spiritual practices without facing academic disadvantages. This Policy is designed for students, faculty members, and administrative staff, providing clear guidelines for requesting and implementing accommodations. The Policy emphasizes the University’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for diverse beliefs, aligning with the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Key requirements of the Policy include the need for students to inform the University of any conflicts between their observances and academic obligations in a timely manner. Students must submit a form detailing their observance dates and the academic activities affected. Faculty and administrative staff are responsible for providing reasonable accommodations, such as rescheduling exams or extending assignment deadlines, to ensure that students are not academically disadvantaged. The Policy also outlines the process for dispute resolution if disagreements arise regarding accommodations.

Refer to the full policy below for complete details.

Approved by: Senate
Date of Most Recent Approval: May 13, 2015, eff. September 1, 2015
Responsible Executive: Provost and Vice-President (Academic)
Policy-Specific Enquiries: Equity and Inclusion Office (EIO)