Missing an exam or needing a makeup final throws off standard grade calculations. Understanding how these situations affect your grade helps you plan effectively.
Understanding Makeup Policies
Different professors handle makeup exams differently. Some count the makeup exam exactly like the original. Others weight it differently or use a weighted average. Some professors use the makeup score only if it's higher than the original attempt.
Check your syllabus immediately for makeup policies. Email your professor if unclear. Some professors allow makeup finals in the last week of class; others only allow makeups under specific circumstances.
When Makeup Exams Count the Same
If your makeup exam counts identically to regular exams, calculate your grade normally. Your final exam weight remains the same regardless of timing. If your class has 5 quiz opportunities and you miss one, you still have 4 quiz grades counting toward the quiz category.
When Makeup Exams Have Different Weights
Some professors give makeup exams less weight, counting them as 50% or 75% of a regular exam. This is less common but happens in large introductory courses.
Calculate your weighted average for exams including the makeup at its assigned weight. Use this average for your final grade calculation instead of a simple average.
Strategic Considerations
If you know you'll take a makeup exam, understand its deadline. Some professors require makeup exams immediately after your absence; others allow them weeks later. Timing affects how this influences your final grade calculation.
If multiple people take makeup finals simultaneously, professors sometimes curve differently. Ask if makeup students are curved against each other or all students together.
Missing Multiple Exams
If you miss multiple exams, policies become complicated. Some professors require medical documentation for each absence. Others have limits on makeup opportunities. Understand your professor's policy before additional absences.
Calculating Your Grade With Makeup Exams
Calculate two scenarios: your grade assuming the makeup score matches your other exam performance, and your grade assuming a specific makeup score. Use the conservative estimate for planning purposes.
Taking Action
Schedule makeup exams as soon as possible. Don't wait until the last week of class. Early makeup exams give you more flexibility and don't create last-minute stress during finals week.