assignment email to professor

Get 25% OFF new yearly plans in our Spring Sale

• Features for Creative Writers
• Features for Work
• Features for Higher Education
• Features for Teachers
• Features for Non-Native Speakers
• Learn Blog Grammar Guide Community Events FAQ
• Grammar Guide

How to Write an Email to a Professor (With Examples)

Hannah Yang

Table of Contents

How to email a professor in 7 steps, email to professor examples.

Emailing your professor can be a daunting task.

Writing professional emails is never easy, but composing an email to a professor can feel especially nerve-racking. After all, your professors have a lot of control over your academic success and your future career, so you don't want to make a mistake.

So, how exactly do you write a successful email to a professor?

In this article, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide for how to write an email to your professor, plus a set of email templates you can use.

We’ve broken the process of emailing your professor into seven simple steps.

Step 1: How to Write the Subject Line

Start by writing a clear, concise subject line for your email.

Your subject line should be specific to your situation. Ideally, your professor should understand why you’re emailing them without even having to open the body of your message.

For example, if you’re emailing to request an extension for a research paper, you can use the subject line “Research paper deadline extension.” Or, if you’re emailing to ask for a clarification about the syllabus, you can use the subject line “Question about class syllabus.”

Step 2: How to Address a Professor in an Email

You should start your email with a formal salutation.

You can use formal greetings, such as “Dear” or “Hi,” followed by your teacher’s preferred title, whether that’s “Professor [Last Name],” “Mr. [Last Name],” “Ms. [Last Name],” or simply “[First Name].”

If you’re not sure about your professor’s title, “Dear Professor [Last Name]” is always a safe bet.

Step 3: How to Start an Email to a Teacher

Start your email by introducing yourself and explaining which class you’re in. For example, you might write, “My name is Hannah, and I’m a freshman in your ENGL 453 class.”

It’s common for professors to teach multiple classes, especially at large universities, so they don’t always know all their students by name. If you’re emailing from your academic account, they’ll likely be able to see your full name in the system, but it’s still better to be safe than sorry.  

Of course, if you’ve already established a working relationship with your professor, and they know who you are, you don’t have to introduce yourself. Instead, you can start your email with a friendly greeting, such as “I hope your week is going well” or “Happy Friday!”

Good writing = better grades

ProWritingAid will help you improve the style, strength, and clarity of all your assignments.

Step 4: How to Explain Your Request

Now that you’ve finished your introduction, it’s time to explain all the essential information about why you’re writing this message.

Professors lead busy lives, so try to keep the body of your email as concise as possible. Don’t use a whole paragraph when a single sentence would do.

Try to keep a professional tone while you explain your request. You don’t need to sound overly stiff, but you should generally avoid using slang or making jokes.

If you’re writing about an issue that includes personal details, such as a health issue or the loss of a loved one, it’s okay to be vague when explaining your reasons. Don’t feel pressure to include details about your personal life that you’re not comfortable sharing.

Finally, be specific about what kind of follow-up action you’re requesting from your professor, if any. For example, you can write, “Please let me know if it would be possible to extend the deadline,” or “Please send me your feedback on this draft at your earliest convenience.”  

Step 5: How to End an Email to a Professor

You can end the body of your email with a simple expression of gratitude. You can write something like, “Thank you for your understanding and support,” or simply “Thanks for your time.”

Step 6: How to Sign Off an Email

Sign off your email with a simple closing salutation, followed by your first name.

Keep it simple and polite. Popular choices include “Best,” “Thanks,” “Sincerely,” and “Regards.”

Step 7: Edit Your Email with ProWritingAid

You don’t want to send your professor an email riddled with grammar mistakes, especially if it’s your English professor! And even if they teach a different subject, like math or biology, you still want to make sure you’re putting your best foot forward.

Editing your email with ProWritingAid can help you avoid mistakes. Our editing tool will correct grammar errors, spelling typos, and weak word choices.

You can even ask the tool to help you ensure you’re using a formal tone so your email doesn’t come across as casual or unprofessional.

Now that we’ve gone over the seven steps for writing an email to a professor, let’s look at some examples.

Here are some email templates you can use, depending on your specific situation.  

Sick Email to Professor Example

Subject line: Missing class today

Dear Professor [Last Name],

My name is [your name], and I’m a student in your class [class name]. I’m writing to let you know that I won’t be able to make it to class today, due to health issues. [Insert details if needed].

Please let me know what material we’ll be covering so I can make it up before the next class.

[Your name]

Sample Email to Professor Asking for Help

Subject line: Help with [class name]

My name is [your name]. I’ve been really struggling with your class [class name] this semester, and I’m having a hard time understanding [details].

Would you have time to sit down with me and help me better understand the material? I would welcome any support you can offer.

Thank you in advance! I look forward to hearing from you.

How to Email a Professor About a Grade

Subject line: My grade for [assignment/exam name]

I hope your week is off to a good start!

I recently received my grade for [assignment/exam name], and it was lower than I expected. Could you please tell me where I lost points?

I know you have a busy schedule, but I would really appreciate more details, since I’m sure that information could also help me improve my grades in the future.

Thank you so much for your time!

Sample Email to Professor for Research

Subject line: Research opportunities in your lab

I hope you’re doing well!

My name is [your name], and I’m a [year, major]. I’m writing to ask about research opportunities in your lab next semester.

I’m really interested in the topic you’re researching because [details], and I have experience conducting research with [previous experience, if any].

Please let me know if you have any openings that might be suitable for me. I look forward to hearing from you!

How to Write an Apology Email for Missing a Class

Subject line: Missing class yesterday

I hope your week is going well.

I’m writing to apologize for missing your class [class name] yesterday. I was unable to attend because [details].

I know it was an important class and that I shouldn’t have missed it. I’ll do my best to ensure this doesn’t happen again. Thank you for your support and understanding.

Extension Email to Professor Example

Subject line: Extension for [Assignment Name]

My name is [your name], and I’m a student in your class [class name]. I’m writing to request an extension for our assignment about [assignment details].

I’ve been struggling to complete the assignment in time because of [reasons]. I would really appreciate it if you could extend the deadline to [new deadline date], due to my situation.

Please let me know if that would be okay. Thank you so much for your flexibility.

Thanks again,

How to Write a Follow-Up Email to a Professor

Subject line: Follow-up re: [subject]

I recently emailed you about [topic].

I’m just writing to follow up on my previous email and make sure you’ve received it. If you have, please let me know when I can expect a reply.

Thank you again for your time!

Warm regards,

How to Email a Professor About Getting Into Their Class

Subject line: Joining your class [class name]

My name is [your name], and I’m a [year, major] at [school name]. I’m interested in joining your class [class name]. I’m really fascinated by [topic] because [reasons], and I’ve heard that your class is a must-take class for students interested in [topic].

I don’t know how much demand there is for the class, but I’m curious if there’s anything I should do in advance to increase my chances of getting into the class.

Thank you for your consideration! I look forward to hearing from you.  

There you have it—our guide for composing a clear and professional email to a professor.

Good luck, and happy writing!

Hannah is a speculative fiction writer who loves all things strange and surreal. She holds a BA from Yale University and lives in Colorado. When she’s not busy writing, you can find her painting watercolors, playing her ukulele, or hiking in the Rockies. Follow her work on hannahyang.com or on Twitter at @hannahxyang.

Get started with ProWritingAid

Drop us a line or let's stay in touch via :

Flow through your inbox

Flowrite turns your instructions into ready-to-send emails and messages across your browser.

For companies

Aug 8, 2022

How to email a professor with 22 different examples

Learn how to email your professor (and what to avoid doing) and check out 22 sample emails to help you get started.

Lawrie Jones

Table of contents

Is there anything more nerve-racking than sending an email to a professor?

Every student will need to send an email to a professor at some point, whether you're asking for an extension, explaining an absence, or a little extra help. But how do you write an email to a professor?

In this guide on how to email a professor, we break down the steps to writing better messages. You'll learn the structure of a good email to a professor (and what to avoid).

And if this is not enough to convince you that it's easier than you might think, we finish off by providing 22 sample emails to a professor!

If you want to impress your professor with perfect grammar, make sure to try Flowrite :

How to send an email to a professor

So, how do you write an email to a professor? Professors are professional people who will be used to traditional email etiquette. That's not to say that you can't introduce some individuality into your emails; it's just important to show respect. 

You'll understand your relationship better than we do. You can be a little less formal if you feel it's appropriate.

Following the correct email etiquette is essential – and easy. In this article we break it down into steps to illustrate what we mean. We've also written about proper email etiquette on our blog before:

It's also important to keep emails short and to the point. Professors receive hundreds of messages daily and don't have time to delve too deeply to get the information they need. Say who you are, what you want, and why you're messaging upfront.

Should I send an email to a professor?

Classes can be busy, and a professor's time can be limited, so email is an ideal way to communicate with your Professor. Emails enable you to go into detail, create lists and spend time crafting a complex message.  

If your question or comment is urgent or sensitive, consider whether it's better to book a meeting or pull them aside for a chat. 

Only you can decide whether to email a professor.

How long should I wait for a reply?

Professors are people with busy lives and professional responsibilities, so you may need to wait for a reply. But how long should you wait for a response from your Professor?

There are no hard and fast rules on how long to wait for a reply, but the general rule is to give it two or three days before sending a follow-up. You can learn more in our guide on how to write a follow-up email.

Email format for messaging a professor

The email format for a professor should be familiar to anyone who understands the basics of messaging. Here's how it works:

• Subject line

• Body copy

• Signature

If you're unfamiliar with how to write a formal email, check out Flowrite blogs that delve deeper into what makes a great subject line, how to greet someone, appropriate sign-offs, and striking the right tone of voice. 

Subject line for an email to professor

Your subject line should spell out exactly what your message is about. Why? Because professors get hundreds of emails daily, they'll need a reason to open and respond to yours. 

We've provided some examples below.

How to greet a professor in an email

Professors should always be addressed using their titles. You can open an email in a few ways, such as:

• Dear Professor 

• Hi Professor

Avoid casual openings, such as "hey" or "how are you doing?". Instead, always uses your Professor's title to show respect, even if you start an email with "Hi" or "Hello."

How to address professor in email

We've covered the importance of using a professor's title in an email, but there's more to it. When discussing how to address a professor in an email, we're talking about the tone of voice – and getting that right can be tricky.

You'll want to be personal, but being too familiar can cause problems. We've written before about how to hit the right tone, so start there. Our examples below show how we've put this into practice.

How to start an email to a professor

An excellent way to start your email is by stating who you are and explaining what your message is about. As we've established, professors receive hundreds of messages every day, so they'll skim-read your message. Unless you're clear with what you want, you could find it binned.

You can see 22 examples of how to address your emails and get to the point as soon as possible.

How to sign off an email to professor

There are several ways you can end an email you a professor. Traditionally, you'd use "your sincerely," but today, you can be a little less formal. Some safe email endings to a professor include:

• Kind regards

• Yours sincerely

Email to professor examples

So, we've explained the basics of emailing your Professor; now it's time to put it into practice with samples. Here are 22 email to professor examples that should cover any scenario. So, whether you're asking for advice, access to a class, or a little extra support, we've got a template for you. 

22 sample emails to a professor

Here are 22 examples of how to email your Professor. These should cover a whole range of situations that you could find yourself in. As with all our templates, use them as inspiration, and be sure to adapt them to your specific situation. 

Ready to get writing to your Professor? Then let's begin.

1. How to write an excuse email to professor example

2. how to email professor for extension example, 3. how to email professor asking for extra credit example, 4. how to email a professor about failing a class example, 5. how to send a follow-up email to a professor, 6. how to write a formal email to a professor example, 7. how to email a professor about getting into their class example, 8. how to email a professor about a grade example, 9/ how to introduce yourself in an email to a professor example, 10. how to ask professor to accept late assignment email example, 11. how to email a professor for a letter of recommendation example, 12. how to email professor about missing class example, 13. how to write a polite email to a professor example, 14. how to write a professional email to a professor example, 15. how to write a proper email to a professor example, 16. how to ask a question to a professor email example, 17. how to write a reminder email to professor example, 18. how to reply back to a professor's email example, 19. how to email a professor about research example, 20/ how to schedule an appointment with a professor email example, 21. how to email professor about being sick example, 22. how to write a thank you email to a professor example, closing words.

Writing emails to a professor can cause mild anxiety, but it doesn't need to be so. We hope that breaking down how to email a professor into steps and providing a massive number of samples will help.

It's essential to understand the principles of crafting professional emails, such as an email to a professor – now it's time to put it into practice.

Supercharge your communication with Flowrite

Write emails and messages faster across Google Chrome.

Explore Flowrite

Start using Flowrite today

Try it yourself

General template

Reply to: "

Received message

introduce flowrite short instruction to ready to send emails we finish email

Generate a reply

Generate an outreach

Share this article

Related articles

How to write a thank you email with 39 samples and template

Wondering how to say thank you? Our thank you email template and 30 thank you email examples will help you say thank you meaningfully.

How to ask for something in an email with 9 examples

Learn how to write request emails that get results with our in-depth guide. This article breaks down the process of writing request emails for information, documents, contact details, favors and more.

10 coolest new productivity tools of 2021

We went to find the best productivity tools so that you can skip the browsing and take them for a test drive.

We use cookies to analyze site performance and deliver a better experience for visitors.

Product updates

Read the latest →

About Flowrite

Get to know us →

Productivity

© 2023 Flowrite

• Med Devices & Surgical
• Cell Biology
• Pharmaceuticals
• Health Maintenance
• Safety and Security
• Engineering
• Advanced Materials
• Semiconductor
• Nanotechnology
• Water-Membrane and Separations
• Fuel Cell and Battery
• Manufacturing
• Environment
• Venture Capital
• Information Technology
• Franchise reports
• BCC Publishing
• Barnes Reports
• Transparency
• Future Markets Insights
• Market Research Studies
• Innovation Spotlights
• About BCC Research
• Custom Consulting
• Membership Benefits
• for Corporate
• for Academic
• for Commercialization
• Press Releases
• In the News

How To Write An Email To Your Professor—6 Copy-Paste Templates

Jun 25, 2022

Blog Academic Institutions How To Write An Email To Your Professor—6 Copy-Paste Templates

Do you ever struggle with what to say to a professor in an email? Writing an email to a professor requires more thought than sending a text to a friend.

It’s important to treat interactions with your professors in a mature, competent way. When you do that, your professors will be more inclined to help you. Plus, you’ll demonstrate to them that you can conduct yourself professionally—which will impress them and make them remember you for when opportunities arise, give them positive things to say about you in letters of recommendation and more.

Today’s blog will provide multiple email templates that you can use when emailing your professor in any of these common situations.

Scheduling a Meeting

If you want to schedule a meeting with a professor to go over an assignment, ask clarifying questions from class or questions about an upcoming exam, but can’t attend your professor’s regular office hours, use this template: Subject: Meeting About _____

Dear Professor (or however your professor address him/herself, i.e. Dr., first name, etc.) _____,

      I hope all is well. I started working on my assignment for _____ and I just had a couple of questions to make sure that I am on the right track. I also wanted to ask a question about yesterday’s lesson on _____, as I was a little confused and I want to ensure that I fully understand the content for the test next week. I know on the syllabus you mentioned that you have available office hours at _____ but I am not able to make it. Will you be at your desk at _____ or _____. Thank you, _____ Asking How to Improve Your Grade on an Assignment or Exam

If you’re unsatisfied with your grade on a recent assignment or exam, here is a template that will help you ask your professor on how to improve or if there are any extra credit options. Even though you’re probably frustrated with your grade, make sure to email your professor in a kind, professional way. Subject: Extra Support on _____

Dear Professor _____,

      I hope all is well and that you enjoyed your weekend. I saw that you posted the grades for our last reports. I was a little surprised and discouraged by my grade.

      I was wondering if you offer any extra credit opportunities, revisions or if you have any advice for me on how to improve on a future assignment. Are you available to meet _____ or _____ to discuss my report and a plan? Let me know what works for you.

I look forward to hearing from you,

Best, _____

Requesting an Extension

If you’re having a really tough, busy few weeks and you have an important assignment coming up, but you need more time to complete it, here is a template on how to tell your professor what is going on and to kindly ask for an extension. Be very specific about why you need an extension. Everyone is juggling multiple priorities, so telling your professor only that you’ve been “stressed out, sick or busy” isn’t enough. Explain the specific barriers you’ve faced when trying to complete the assignment. Even better, attach a note from your coach, employer or doctor who can attest to why you need an extension. Subject: Extension on _____

    I hope all is well. I have been extremely busy and stressed with assignments in other classes and with _____ (sports practice, on-campus job, other commitment, health condition, etc.). I do not think that I will be able to submit my best work to you with all of the other tasks on my agenda. I was wondering if you would consider granting me an extension on our upcoming project/paper and submit it by ______?

Asking for a Letter of Recommendation

If you know of a professor that you are close with or one who enjoys working with you, here is a template on how to ask for a recommendation for a future job or graduate school. Make sure that you give your professor at least two months’ notice so they have time to write a thoughtful recommendation.

Subject: Letter of Recommendation for _____

      I hope all is well and that you had a great _____ (summer, winter break, fall semester, etc…) I am applying for a _____ (summer internship, full-time job, graduate program, summer program, etc…) at _____. I really value and appreciate how you have helped me grow as a student and cultivated my interest in ____. The position requires a letter of recommendation, and I was wondering if you would consider writing one for me? If you are able to write it, I will follow up with a deadline and any additional information. I have attached a resume and cover letter below as a reference. I look forward to hearing from you, Kind Regards, _____ Information about a Particular Class

If you’re picking classes for the upcoming semester and you have researched a few classes or are unsure what you want to choose, here is a template that will help you ask a professor for more details on a class. If you have never taken a class with this professor before, make sure that you fully introduce yourself. Subject: Information on _____

      My name is _____ and I am a rising _____. I am trying to narrow down a few classes for the next semester. I am interested in _____ and I am considering majoring in _____. I was doing some research in the course catalog and I found your class. I am emailing you to see if you would consider sharing more details and potentially the syllabus on _____. Or, if you could refer me to a student who took this class who I could contact, that would be very helpful.

Thank you, _____

Personal Advice

If you developed a close relationship with a professor and you’re having a personal problem, here is a template to help if you feel comfortable enough to reach out to him or her.

Subject: Personal Help With _____

      I hope all is well. I recently encountered/am struggling with _____ and I’d love to talk to you about it. Will you be available _____ or _____ so I can come in and discuss this with you?

Stay ahead of industry trends, build your market research strategy and more.

Recent posts.

Unveiling the Potential: Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Global Markets

1 min. read | Biotechnology, Featured

5 Leading Innovators in the Healthcare Interoperability Solutions Market

1 min. read | Healthcare, Featured

The Top 5 Companies in EMI/RFI Shielding Materials Market

1 min. read | Plastics, Featured

How is the Global Herbal Medicine Market transforming?

1 min. read | Pharmaceuticals, Featured

Written By Daniella Pascucci

Daniella is our Academic Insights Strategist and a current senior at Bates College. She writes about challenges facing college students and tangible ways students can thrive in their academic and professional lives.

Related Content

3 min. read | Academic Institutions

How To Choose A Market Research Vendor—For Tech Transfer And Innovation Offices

At this time of year, many of you are reviewing your budget and analyzing your m...

How To Choose A Market Research Vendor—For Schools And Universities

Happy Summer to our academic librarian audience! I hope you get to enjoy a bit o...

6 min. read | Academic Institutions

How to be Productive Over Winter Break - Pandemic Edition

Guiding smart decisions every step of the way

We are your trusted research partner, providing actionable insights and custom consulting across life sciences, advanced materials, and technology. Allow BCC Research to nurture your smartest business decisions today, tomorrow, and beyond.

BCC Research provides objective, unbiased measurement and assessment of market opportunities with detailed market research reports. Our experienced industry analysts assess growth opportunities, market sizing, technologies, applications, supply chains and companies with the singular goal of helping you make informed business decisions, free of noise and hype.

Stay Informed

• Custom Research
• Market Insights
• News & Events

• 781-489-7301
• [email protected]

Connect With Us

• 866-285-7215

How to Email a Professor with Confidence + Tips & Templates

• July 14, 2023

Are you ready to conquer the digital realm of academia?

Well, get your keyboards ready because we’ve got the ultimate guide on ho w to email a professor like a pro.

Whether you’re a seasoned sender or a freshman in the art of electronic communication, we’ve got the tips, templates, and tricks to help you craft the perfect email that will make your professors swoon (well, at least respond promptly).

So, buckle up, dear student, as we embark on this adventure to email excellence.

Let’s dive in and become the master composers of the virtual classroom!

Understanding Email Etiquette for Professors

When it comes to emailing professors, professionalism is key. Your email is an opportunity to make a positive impression and demonstrate your respect for their time and expertise.

By following the proper email etiquette, you can ensure that your message is well-received and increases your chances of receiving a prompt and helpful response. Here are some essential guidelines to keep in mind:

• Use a clear and concise subject line that reflects the purpose of your email.
• Address the professor formally using their appropriate title (e.g., Dr., Professor).
• Begin your email with a polite greeting , such as "Dear Professor [Last Name]."
• Introduce yourself briefly if necessary, mentioning your name, course, or any relevant information .
• Keep your email focused and to the point , using short paragraphs and bullet points for clarity.
• Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation to convey professionalism.
• Avoid using informal language or slang , and maintain a respectful tone throughout.
• Clearly state the purpose of your email and make your request or inquiry in a polite and concise manner.
• Sign off the email with an appropriate closing , such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.

By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll demonstrate your professionalism and respect for your professor’s time . It’s important to remember that professors receive numerous emails daily, so being concise, polite, and clear in your communication will greatly increase the likelihood of receiving a helpful response.

Preparing to Email a Professor

Before you compose an email to your professor, it’s essential to take the necessary steps to prepare yourself for effective communication.

By conducting research, gathering information, and setting clear goals, you’ll be better equipped to craft a well-crafted email that resonates with your professor. Let’s delve deeper into each guideline:

Researching The Professor's Background And Preferences

To establish a strong foundation for your email, take the time to research your professor’s background and preferences. Explore their academic profile, such as their areas of expertise, research interests, and publications.

This knowledge not only shows your genuine interest but also enables you to tailor your email to align with their expertise. Additionally, check if they have provided any specific communication preferences on their faculty webpage or syllabus.

Some professors may prefer certain email formats, specific subject lines , or include any guidelines for communication. Adhering to their preferences demonstrates your attentiveness and respect for their communication style.

Gathering Necessary Information And Documents

Before drafting your email, gather all the relevant information and documents you need . Review your assignment details, syllabi, or course materials to ensure you have accurate information at your fingertips.

This enables you to provide specific references or ask targeted questions, making your email more focused and effective. Additionally, if you’re discussing a particular assignment or project, have the necessary materials readily available to refer to and provide context in your email.

Being well-prepared with the right information helps streamline the communication process and allows your professor to respond more efficiently.

Setting Clear Goals And Objectives For The Email

One of the most important aspects of emailing a professor is to establish clear goals and objectives for your email. Ask yourself: What is the purpose of this email? Is it to seek clarification on a specific topic, request a meeting or appointment, or discuss grades or feedback?

Identify the specific questions or points you want to address to avoid ambiguity in your email . Clear goals help you structure your email effectively and ensure that your professor understands your intentions.

By being focused and concise , you make it easier for your professor to provide you with the appropriate information or guidance.

Emailing a Professor: Best Practices and Tips

When it comes to emailing a professor, incorporating certain best practices and tips can significantly enhance your communication and leave a lasting impression. Here’s a breakdown of what you should keep in mind:

Concise and Focused Emails

When composing an email to a professor, it’s crucial to keep your message concise and focused . Professors often have overflowing inboxes, and lengthy emails can be overwhelming or discouraging to read.

By getting straight to the point, you respect their time and make it easier for them to grasp the essence of your communication. Ensure that your email is clear, well-structured, and free from unnecessary tangents or irrelevant information.

Consider outlining the main points you want to address before writing your email, helping you stay on track and avoid unnecessary details.

Utilize Bullet Points or Numbered Lists

A useful technique to improve the readability and organization of your email is to use bullet points or numbered lists. This formatting style allows you to present information in a concise and structured manner. It helps your professor quickly scan and comprehend the key points you are trying to convey.

Whether you’re listing questions, summarizing important details, or providing multiple options, bullet points and numbered lists offer clarity and ease of understanding.

Proofread and Edit

Before clicking the send button, it’s crucial to thoroughly proofread and edit your email . Review it with a keen eye for any spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, or typos that may have slipped through. Consider reading your email aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or unclear sentences.

Pay attention to the overall flow and coherence of your message. Editing ensures that your email reflects professionalism and attention to detail, making a positive impression on your professor.

Maintain a Professional Tone

When communicating with professors via email, it’s essential to adopt a professional tone throughout your message . Avoid using informal language, abbreviations, or slang terms that might diminish the formality of your communication.

Address your professor respectfully, using appropriate titles (e.g., Dr., Professor) and polite language. Maintain a courteous and respectful tone, demonstrating your understanding of the academic environment and your appreciation for their expertise.

Demonstrate Enthusiasm and Interest

Expressing genuine enthusiasm and interest in the subject matter can greatly enhance your email’s impact. Let your professor know that you are genuinely engaged and passionate about the topic or course.

Use positive and proactive language to convey your eagerness to learn and explore the subject further. This enthusiasm demonstrates your dedication and commitment, making your email more compelling and memorable.

Respect Email Response Time

It’s important to be mindful of your professor’s email response time expectations . Keep in mind that professors have numerous responsibilities, including teaching, research, and administrative tasks.

They may not be able to respond immediately . Allow them a reasonable amount of time to reply before assuming they have overlooked your email or require a follow-up. Patience and understanding are key when waiting for their response.

Appropriate Follow-up

If you haven’t received a response within a reasonable timeframe or your inquiry is time-sensitive, it may be appropriate to send a polite follow-up email . When doing so, be considerate and understanding of the professor’s workload.

Use a respectful tone, express gratitude for their time, and restate the purpose of your initial email. Avoid coming across as pushy or demanding, and give them an opportunity to respond at their earliest convenience.

By incorporating these best practices, you demonstrate professionalism, respect, and effective communication skills when emailing professors. These strategies increase the likelihood of receiving a prompt and helpful response, establishing a positive rapport with your professors.

Email Templates for Different Scenarios

When it comes to emailing your professor, having templates for different scenarios can be a real time-saver. These templates provide a starting point and ensure that your emails are well-structured and effective. Here are some email templates for various scenarios you may encounter:

Email Template For Introducing Yourself To A Professor

This template is helpful when you’re beginning a new course or semester and want to establish a positive relationship with your professor from the start. Introducing yourself allows the professor to get to know you and creates a foundation for open communication.

Expressing your enthusiasm for the course shows your genuine interest and dedication to learning. By briefly mentioning a specific topic or area of interest, you demonstrate your engagement and encourage the professor to provide additional resources or insights if applicable.

Remember to keep the email concise while still conveying your excitement for the class.

Here’s the template:

Subject: Introduction – [Your Name] – [Course Name/Number]

Dear Professor [Last Name],

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a student in your [Course Name/Number] this semester. I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and express my enthusiasm for the course.

I am particularly interested in [mention specific topic or area of interest]. I look forward to engaging with the course material and actively participating in class discussions.

If there are any additional materials or readings you recommend, please let me know. Thank you for your time, and I am excited to be part of your class.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Email Template For Asking A Question Or Seeking Clarification

When you encounter a concept or assignment that requires clarification, this template can guide you in formulating a well-structured question. Clearly state the topic or assignment you’re seeking clarification on to ensure the professor understands the context of your inquiry.

Being specific about the aspect you find unclear or challenging helps the professor provide a targeted response. Keep in mind that respectful language and a concise message will make iHere’s the template:t easier for your professor to address your question effectively.

Subject: Question – [Specific Topic/Assignment]

I hope this email finds you well. I have a question regarding [specific topic or assignment]. I am a bit unclear about [specific aspect]. Could you please provide some clarification or guidance on this matter?

I have reviewed the course materials, but I would appreciate your expertise to better understand the concept. Thank you for your time and assistance.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Email Template For Requesting A Meeting Or Office Hours Appointment

When face-to-face interaction is necessary, such as discussing a complex topic or seeking advice, this template assists in requesting a meeting or office hours appointment . Start by expressing your intention to have a discussion and briefly mention the specific topic or purpose.

Offering a range of possible meeting times or indicating your general availability allows the professor to find a suitable slot. Being flexible and considerate of the professor’s schedule demonstrates your respect for their time and willingness to accommodate their availability .

Subject: Request for Meeting – [Specific Topic]

I hope this email finds you well. I would like to schedule a meeting to discuss [specific topic]. I am particularly interested in exploring [specific aspect or question]. I am available [mention a few possible time slots or provide your general availability] for a meeting.

Please let me know if any of these times work for you, or if there is an alternative time that would be more convenient.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to discussing this further with you.

Email Template for Discussing Grades or Assignments

When you need clarification or feedback on a graded assignment , this template helps you approach your professor in a professional manner. Begin by acknowledging the grade you received and express your desire to understand the evaluation criteria and areas for improvement.

Demonstrating your commitment to academic growth and seeking guidance from the professor shows your proactive approach to learning. Be receptive to constructive criticism and maintain a respectful tone throughout the email.

Subject: Grade/Assignment Inquiry – [Course Name/Number]

I hope this email finds you well. I recently received my grade for [specific assignment or exam] in [Course Name/Number], and I would appreciate some feedback to better understand my performance.

Could you please provide insights on the grading criteria and any areas for improvement? I am committed to my academic growth and would value your guidance.

Thank you in advance for your time and assistance.

Email Template For Expressing Appreciation Or Gratitude

This template enables you to express gratitude to your professor for their positive impact on your learning experience. Identify a specific reason or instance that inspired your appreciation, such as their insightful lectures, valuable feedback, or availability for additional support.

Acknowledge their dedication to teaching and creating an engaging environment. Remember to keep your gratitude email sincere and concise , emphasizing the professor’s contribution to your educational journey. Such gestures of appreciation can foster a positive relationship and encourage ongoing support from your professor.

Subject: Appreciation for [Specific Reason]

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for [specific reason].

[Explain why you are grateful, such as their insightful lectures, their guidance on an assignment, or their availability for extra support]. Your dedication to teaching and commitment to student success truly make a difference.

Thank you for your efforts and for creating an engaging learning environment.

Handling Challenging Situations

Handling challenging situations when emailing a professor requires tact and effective communication . 

Whether you’ve missed a class, need an extension, have personal issues, or need to address concerns or conflicts, it’s important to approach these situations professionally and respectfully. Here are email templates for each scenario:

Emailing a Professor About a Missed Class or Late Assignment

This template helps you express accountability for missing a class or submitting an assignment late. Apologize for the inconvenience caused and show understanding of the importance of attendance and timely submissions.

Request clarification on any missed material or opportunities for makeup work. By taking responsibility and seeking guidance, you demonstrate your commitment to making up for the missed class or assignment.

Subject: Apology and Request for Clarification – [Course Name/Number]

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to apologize for missing [class name] on [date] or submitting [assignment name] late.

I understand the importance of attending class and meeting deadlines, and I take full responsibility for my actions. I would greatly appreciate your guidance on catching up or any additional materials discussed during the missed session.

If there are any opportunities to make up for the missed class or late submission, please let me know. Thank you for your understanding and assistance.

Emailing a Professor for an Extension or Special Consideration

​​When you need an extension or special consideration, this template assists you in making a formal request. Begin by expressing your understanding of the significance of meeting deadlines.

Provide a concise explanation of the circumstances necessitating the request while avoiding excessive personal details. Clearly state your desired extension deadline and express gratitude for considering your request.

By demonstrating responsibility and being transparent, you increase the likelihood of a positive response.

Subject: Extension/Special Consideration Request – [Course Name/Number]

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request an extension for [specific assignment] due on [due date]. [Provide a brief explanation of the circumstances causing the need for an extension, such as unexpected circumstances or unforeseen challenges].

I understand the importance of timely submissions, but due to the circumstances, I am seeking your understanding and support. If an extension is possible, I would be grateful for the opportunity to submit the assignment by [proposed extended deadline].

Thank you for considering my request.

Emailing a Professor About Personal or Health-Related Issues

This template helps you address personal or health-related issues that may impact your academic performance. Begin by expressing your well wishes and briefly explain the situation without revealing excessive personal details.

Request a discussion to explore potential accommodations or alternatives to minimize the impact on your studies. Offer to provide any necessary documentation or information. By communicating openly and respectfully, you create an opportunity for understanding and support.

Subject: Personal Matter/Health Issue – [Course Name/Number]

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to inform you about a personal matter/health issue that is affecting my ability to attend class or perform at my best.

[Provide a brief description of the situation, without divulging excessive personal details]. I wanted to reach out to you to discuss potential accommodations or alternatives to ensure minimal impact on my academic progress.

I am willing to provide any necessary documentation or additional information if required. Thank you for your understanding and support.

Emailing a Professor to Address Concerns or Conflicts

When you need to address concerns or conflicts with your professor, this template helps you initiate a respectful conversation. Start by expressing your well wishes and request a meeting to discuss the issues at hand .

Emphasize the importance of open communication and your willingness to work toward a resolution that benefits everyone. By displaying a proactive approach to resolving conflicts, you foster a constructive dialogue and potential resolution.

Subject: Request for Discussion – [Course Name/Number]

I hope this email finds you well. I would like to schedule a meeting to address some concerns/conflicts that have arisen in [Course Name/Number].

I believe open and respectful communication is crucial in resolving these matters and ensuring a positive learning environment. I am available to meet at your convenience to discuss these issues and seek a resolution that benefits everyone involved.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Email a Professor

When it comes to emailing professors, it’s natural to have questions about the best practices and etiquette. To help you navigate this process smoothly, here are some frequently asked questions on how to email a professor, along with detailed answers:

Is it okay to email my professor outside of their office hours?

While it’s generally acceptable to email professors outside of their designated office hours, it’s important to respect their time and availability . If your inquiry is urgent or time-sensitive, mention that in your email, but avoid making non-urgent requests during off-hours.

Remember that professors have busy schedules, so be patient and allow them sufficient time to respond.

Should I email my professor if I need clarification on an assignment?

Absolutely! If you have questions or need clarification on an assignment, emailing your professor is a great way to seek guidance. Be specific about the aspects you find confusing or need further explanation on.

Provide relevant details such as the assignment name and any specific sections or requirements that are unclear to you. Avoid asking the professor to do the work for you ; instead, show that you’ve made an effort to understand the assignment and seek their expert advice.

What should I do if my professor hasn't responded to my email?

If your professor hasn’t responded to your email within a reasonable time frame, there are a few steps you can take.

First, double-check that you sent the email to the correct email address . If it’s correct, you can consider sending a polite follow-up email , acknowledging that they may be busy and expressing your understanding.

Additionally, if your professor has office hours, you can visit them during that time to discuss your inquiry in person. It’s important to be patient and respectful throughout the process.

Key Takeaways on How to Email a Professor

In this article, we have covered various aspects of emailing professors with confidence . We discussed the importance of professionalism and provided tips on keeping emails concise, focused, and respectful.

We offered email templates for different scenarios, including introductions, questions, meetings, grades, and appreciation. We also addressed challenging situations like missed classes, late assignments, extensions, personal issues, and conflicts.

Key takeaways include conducting research, setting clear goals, proofreading emails, avoiding informal language, showing enthusiasm, being mindful of response time, and following up appropriately.

By following these guidelines and utilizing the templates, you can enhance your email communication skills and foster positive relationships with your professors .

To achieve the best results with email outreach, we recommend using a professional email automation software

13 best cold email platforms rated and compared

Edgar Abong

Table of contents.

Expert level sales and marketing guides and unbiased software reviews. 

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

Copyright © 2024 influno. All rights reserved.

Last Updated on July 14, 2023 by Edgar Abong

• All features
• Home screen
• Smart Inbox
• Snooze Emails
• Reminder to Follow-up
• Email Signatures
• Newsletters & Notifications
• Help center
• Email templates
• Spark for Windows
• Spark 2 website

How to Email a Professor: Tips and Samples

Dec 19th 2023

There are many situations when you need to email your professor: Asking a question, inquiring about your grades, or informing them about a missed class. If you’re wondering how to write an email to a professor, at the end of this article, you’ll find several email samples you can use for different occasions.

How to write an email to a professor: A step-by-step guide

1. Make sure you really need to send that email

If you want to email a professor asking a question, check your syllabus first. Chances are pretty solid you’ll find the answer. The syllabus can tell you about your workload, assignments, deadlines, and more. Your classmates are another valuable source of information, so make sure to talk to them first.

If the syllabus, or your peers, can’t answer your question, it’s fine to send an email with additional inquiries.

2. Use your school email

This is the best course of action because such an email looks professional and shows a recipient that your message is about classes. If you don’t have an educational email address, make sure to use an appropriate email address like [email protected] . Your [email protected] address isn’t suitable for academic correspondence.

3. Write a clear subject line

The subject line defines if a recipient opens your email, so make sure it’s clear, concise and to the point. A good subject line tells a professor what your email is about and how they should act on it.

4. Include a proper email greeting

Start your email to a professor with an appropriate and respectful salutation. Double-check their name before sending an email and make sure your greeting is followed by a comma.

5. Remind who you are

Professors have lots of students, so it’s important to tell them your name and the class you’re attending. This helps you save the recipient time and ensures you get a reply faster.

6. Get straight to the point

After greeting a professor and introducing yourself, it’s time to state your question or request. Keep it concise and clear, so the recipient can quickly comprehend what it’s about and what action is expected from them.

7. End an email politely and include a professional signature

How to end an email to a professor? Thank them for their time and sign off your email with “Sincerely” or “Best regards” followed by your name.

8. Proofread your email

Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Make sure to stick to a formal tone and avoid emojis or informal abbreviations like FYI or ASAP. Check the spelling of your professor’s name one more time.

9. Put yourself in your professor’s shoes

Reread the email as if you are a professor who receives it. Is it clear who’s writing to you and what they want? Is the tone of the email polite and respectful? Does it comply with a formal email format? If all your answers are “Yes,” then feel free to send your email.

Email to professor samples

Once you’ve learned how to email a professor, it’s time to practice. Below, you’ll find a number of email samples for different situations. Please keep in mind that these examples are for reference only, and you should always personalize and tweak them to your needs.

If you frequently need to email your professor, you can add these templates to Spark and reuse them whenever needed. Learn how templates in Spark work .

1. Email to a professor about not attending class

Subject: History 1B: Class attendance Dear Professor Smith, This is Lexie Brown, from History 1B, Section 1. I am writing to inform you that I won’t be able to attend your class on Thursday, as I have a doctor’s appointment at 11 AM. Please find attached my assignment we are supposed to submit by Thursday. I will also do my best to look through the materials you provided for this class and ask my classmates to share their notes. Thank you. Best regards, Lexie Brown

2. Email to a professor about grades

Subject: History 1B: Inquiring about my grade Dear Professor Smith, My name is Lexie Brown, from History 1B, Section 1. I was wondering if we could set up an appointment to discuss my grade on [Assignment name] . I have checked that your office hours are scheduled on Wednesdays from 2 to 5 PM. If this is correct, please let me know if I can come. I look forward to your reply. Kind regards, Lexie Brown

3. Email to a professor asking a question

Subject: Question about the History 1B assignment Dear Professor Smith, I am Lexie Brown, from History 1B, Section 1. In the syllabus, the deadline for our latest assignment is listed as April 9th. However, in class on Monday you mentioned April 12th as the deadline. Could you please verify the correct deadline? Thank you so much for your time. Sincerely, Lexie Brown

4. Email to a professor asking for an appointment

Subject: History 1B: Appointment request Dear Professor Smith, I am a student in your History 1B class, Section 1. I faced some difficulties with selecting a topic for my research paper, and I would appreciate it if I could discuss it with you during your office hours. Please let me know if you are available to meet this week. Thank you for your time. I look forward to your reply. Best regards, Lexie Brown

Want to become better at email? Get Spark . This free and powerful email client lets you use email templates, so you can save time with writing similar emails. It also gives you email superpowers like snoozes, email scheduling, and follow-up reminders to help you work with email faster.

Smart. Focused. Email.

• Priority Email
• Smart Notifications
• All How-tos
• Add mail account to Mac
• Add mail account to iOS
• Delete Emails (Mac)
• Replace Emails (Mac)
• Delete Emails (iOS)
• Attach Emails (iOS)
• Replace Emails (iOS)
• Block Emails (iOS)
• Privacy Policy - Web
• Privacy Policy - App
• Terms of Service
• Cookie Policy
• Data Processing Agreement
• Responsible Disclosure

Apple, the Apple logos, MacBook, iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store and Mac App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

How to Email a Professor (10 Tips Plus Examples)

Reviewed and edited by Tyson Schritter : 28 March, 2024.

Contacting your professors is something you’ll probably have to do frequently throughout college. Probably more often than you’d prefer. There’s no need to be intimidated, but there are a few things you should keep in mind before reaching out.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that any email you send to your professor should be written with a professional tone. Remember, the person you’re addressing has the ability to make a drastic impact on your education. Your professor, as an expert in their field, holds the key to the information you need and can even help point you in the right direction toward your future career.

It is important to make a positive impression every time you contact them, as your correspondence can influence whether they seek you out for additional opportunities for growth, including internships and assistantships.

How to Write an Email to a Professor

1. use your academic account.

• You have a  .edu  email address for a reason! Don’t communicate with your embarrassing “harrystyles_luvr13xx” email address from the middle school

2. Make the subject line clear

• The sooner your professor knows what you’re asking, the sooner they’ll be able to help you.

3. Use a formal salutation

• Avoid addressing professors as “Mr.” or “Mrs.” Acknowledge their status and make sure you know their correct titles (Dr., Professor, etc.

4. Thoroughly identify yourself

• Even if your class size is small, your professor has plenty of other responsibilities, classes, and students. Help your professor recognize you quickly by introducing yourself with your first and last name as well as the title and section number of your class.

5. Keep a formal tone

• Remember: this is not a text message! Do not use abbreviations, emojis, or slang. Also, limit what you share about your personal life unless it happens to be relevant.

6. Use correct grammar and spelling

• If you’re uncertain about your ability to write professionally, there are a few tools available to help you gain confidence and correct any mistakes. For instance, the text-editing service  Grammarly  offers a free browser extension to help users write correctly, checking for syntax, spelling, punctuation, and style. Its corrections and modifications come with helpful explanations, allowing you to make informed decisions about how you edit your final draft. Tools like Grammarly are invaluable for any student, providing real-time editing for not only emails to faculty, but also any kind of class writing assignment.

7. Communicate clearly and concisely

• If you cannot articulate your specific need in one or two sentences, give them an idea of what you need help with and ask to set up a face-to-face meeting with them.

8. Be polite

• Your professor is a human being with feelings, so “please” and “thank you” goes a long way. And it never hurts to add a line wishing them a great weekend or good afternoon!

9. End with a formal acknowledgment

• “Thank you,” “Best,” and “Sincerely,” followed by your first and last names are always safe choices.

10. Follow up

• Remember that your professors may have to keep track of hundreds of students at a time. If they don’t get back to you promptly, follow up in person either before or after your next class with them.

Email to Professor Example: 3 Use Cases

Inquiring about your grade.

When reaching out with a question or concern regarding your grade, remember that, for privacy purposes, your professor is not likely to share certain information with you via email. If you’re unable to attend their office hours to ask your question in person, request to set up an appointment at a time that otherwise fits your schedules. Below is a good example of how to email a professor about your grades.

Good afternoon Professor X,

My name is X X, and I am in your Thursday-morning English I class, section 4231. I am unable to attend your office hours this week, but I was wondering if I could set up an appointment with you to discuss my grade on Essay #1. I did not understand some of your notes and was hoping to meet with you for clarification. Please let me know if you have any availability this week.

Thank you for your time and have a great evening.

Asking for a Reference

Another occasion in which you may need to email a professor is when you’re looking for a professional reference. Again, your professor is a respected expert in their field, so their recommendation can do wonders for both your academic and professional growth. That said, it’s important to make your request for their reference as easy as possible for them; they are busy and have likely received many similar requests from other students. Be polite, concise, and clear as you communicate exactly what you need from them. And if you need their reference by a specific deadline, make sure you include it in your request with ample time to complete your request. Below is an example of such an invitation.

Hello Dr. X,

This is X X from your ABC2000 class of Fall 2024. I thoroughly enjoyed your class and want to say thank you for a great semester. I am now applying for the _________ Program, which is a curriculum designed to enhance the professional skills of engineering majors at this university. I am emailing you to inquire whether you would be willing to comment on my potential as an environmental engineering researcher? I would simply need to provide your name as a reference along with your contact information.

Thank you once again. I greatly appreciate your time.

Asking a General Question

Last, but not least, really take care to check your class syllabus or assignment instructions before asking your professor a question via email. In many cases, professors will have already addressed several of the most frequently asked questions within the first few days of class at the beginning of the semester. Review  all  the materials you’ve collected from the class before approaching your professor. The last thing you want to do is bug them about something they’ve already given you an answer to. Communicate a level of commitment and respect by thoroughly reviewing your information and ensuring that you still need to contact your professor.

Other students in your class can prove to be another valuable resource. Each of your professors likely teach multiple classes, conduct research out of class, or do work for another job on campus or elsewhere. They are not obligated to communicate the same information multiple times! If you were unable to attend a class,  do not  ask your professor about what you missed.  Always  go to a classmate first!

Your professor’s goal is to help you succeed, but it is not their responsibility. Show them your dedication to success with adequate preparation and careful language. Learning to write clear, concise, professional emails to your professors is an excellent practice in taking ownership of your education—not to mention good training for future communication with an employer!

More Helpful Reads

10 Useful Apps to Help Students Survive the First Year of College

The Importance of Internships in College

4 Tips for Choosing a Major

Is College Preparing You for Real Life?

The 30 Hardest Colleges to Get Into by Acceptance Rate

Your Guide to Required Documents for College Applications

What is a Target School?

• Search All Scholarships
• Exclusive Scholarships
• Easy Scholarships to Apply For
• No Essay Scholarships
• Scholarships for HS Juniors
• Scholarships for HS Seniors
• Scholarships for College Students
• Scholarships for Grad Students
• Scholarships for Women
• Scholarships for Black Students
• Scholarships
• Student Loans
• College Admissions
• Financial Aid
• Scholarship Winners
• Scholarship Providers

Student-centric advice and objective recommendations

Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here .

How to Email Your Professor (With Examples)

Lisa Freedland is a Scholarships360 writer with personal experience in psychological research and content writing. She has written content for an online fact-checking organization and has conducted research at the University of Southern California as well as the University of California, Irvine. Lisa graduated from the University of Southern California in Fall 2021 with a degree in Psychology.

Learn about our editorial policies

Every academic year, more and more professors complain that students do not know how to write nor respond to emails. Often, students are simply not taught how to write such emails to begin with. Some students are entirely clueless about what they’re doing wrong. To help make sure you don’t make these same mistakes, we’re going to show you how to email your professor (with examples)!

Keep on reading so that you can be confident in what you’re saying before you even hit “send.”

Emailing professors: A how-to guide

We’re sure that you’ve emailed people before, whether teachers, coworkers, friends, or family, but emailing professors is a little different. Emailing professors requires a level of formality not typically required when emailing people you’re already familiar with (yes, even if you know the professor well!). So, to make sure you don’t leave a bad impression on your professors, we’ve established a few tips that you should go by before sending off that email. Let’s get into them!

Don’t miss:   How to ask for letters of recommendation

Be professional

Perhaps most importantly, you should be professional when emailing your professors. But, what do we mean by this?

Simply, being professional when emailing your professors means using proper grammar, not using slang or emojis, and using their proper title (we’ll get into what this means next).

Further, if you’re asking for an extension for an assignment, giving a heads-up as to why you’ll be missing class, or anything along these lines, try not to give away too much personal information as to why. For example, rather than saying you have a stomach ache or caught the flu, you can instead say that you came down with an illness. The exact sickness (or reason) is not the most relevant information. Your professor will probably be grateful not to know anyway.

Apply to these scholarships due soon

$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship

Niche $25,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship

$10,000 CollegeXpress Scholarship

$1,000 Appily Easy College Money Scholarship

$5,000 Christian Connector Scholarship

$2,000 No Essay CollegeVine Scholarship

$2,000 Niche “No Essay” College Scholarship

Include their title + name.

Time for titles! If you’re not familiar with what titles are, titles refer to the words used before or after a person’s name that indicate a person’s position or role. When it comes to professors, students normally use either the title “Doctor” (abbreviated Dr.) or “Professor.”

And, as normally comes after someone’s title, you should be sure to include their last name after. So, let’s say you’re emailing a professor called Susan Robinson. You could start the email off with something like:

“Dear Dr. Robinson,” or “Hello Dr. Robinson,” or “Dear Professor Robinson,” or “Hello Professor Robinson,”

All these are fine choices, and it’s entirely up to you to choose whichever you prefer. And, if you haven’t quite noticed, it’s quite common to use “Dear” or “Hello” when starting off an email to a professor, but these aren’t your only options (just common ones). Whichever you use is, once again, up to your personal preference!

Don’t miss:  How to make a budget in college

Say something nice 

Yes, really. It doesn’t hurt to be nice when emailing professors, especially when you’re asking for their advice or help. 

So, how do you start out with something nice? Well, typically, after greeting your professor with their title and name (as we demonstrated above), you’ll add something along the lines of:

• “Hope you had a great weekend.”
• “I hope you’re enjoying the beautiful weather today!”
• “Hope you’re doing well!”

Make sense? Some professors appreciate such niceties. Not only will it indicate that you realize they have a life outside of academia, but it’s also just a polite thing to do. Yes, admittedly, some professors might not care, but others will!

Give context (i.e. who you are)

College professors have tons of students. So, oftentimes (if not always), they may need a little reminder on how they know you. This is especially true if you’re not in touch with them frequently. This is exactly what you should do next – explain who you are!

If you’re a student of theirs, the easiest way to do this is to mention what class of theirs you’re enrolled in, and what time it meets (or, if there are names for each section, you can mention that instead). This will give them some context before you ask a question, so they can understand exactly what assignment, topic, or question it is you’re asking about. This might go something like:

“This is *insert your name* from the Psychology 101 section that meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-2:30 P.M.”

Alternatively, if you’re not a student of theirs, explain your desired relationship to them (e.g., are you interested in enrolling in their class? Do you want to work in their research lab?). If this is the case for you, this might look like:

“This is *insert your name*, a second-year student majoring in Psychology. I am interested in enrolling in Psychology 102 next semester, and… *can ask/introduce your question here*” 

Now, unless you are 100% sure that your professor knows who you are by name, we definitely recommend you don’t skip this step! It may be awkward if your professor has to ask who you are after your initial email, so, better safe than sorry!

Last, but not least, try to use your university email if you have one! This immediately signals to your professor that you’re either a student or faculty member at their college. Your school email may make them more inclined to look at your email.

Don’t miss:  How to make money in college

Be straightforward

Since they have so many students, professors also receive a lot of emails. So, when emailing them, make sure to get straight to the point (no beating around the bush!). Be specific about your question, and provide context if needed. If you’ve already tried to solve your problem or answer your question in a number of ways, mention these. Doing so will cut down the amount of unnecessary emails sent back and forth. Also, it will also help you understand what tips or advice they shouldn’t give you (as you’ve already tried them).

On a similar note, if you have a question about a test or due date, we highly recommend checking your class syllabus first. These will contain your important test and due dates 99% of the time, if not more.

And, most importantly, remember to make your subject line specific and clear. For example, if you have a question about an assignment’s due date, your subject line could be something along the lines of “Question about Due Date of Assignment Name .” This will make it clear to the professor what the context of the email is, and will help avoid any misunderstandings.

After asking your question (or saying whatever you needed to say), it’s time to sign off! Most commonly, people will do this by using a “Best,”, “Thanks,” “Sincerely,” or something along those lines, followed by their name. If your university email does not include your full name, write both your first and last name in your sign off. This will make it clear to the professor who you are, even if they have another student with the same first name.

Start your scholarship search

• Vetted scholarships custom-matched to your profile
• Access exclusive scholarships only available to Scholarships360 members

A few examples

Time for a few examples! Here they are:

1.  If you’re asking a professor a question about an upcoming test date:

Hello Dr. Johnson,

Hope your week is off to a great start!

This is John Smith from your Chemistry 404 Monday/Wednesday/Friday 11 am – 12 pm class. Last Monday, you mentioned that our upcoming midterm is scheduled for September 25th. However, on the class syllabus it says that the test is planned for September 21st. I was wondering on which of these dates the midterm will be taking place?

Thank you in advance.

2.  Generalized email to a professor:

Dear Dr. Last Name ,

Hope you’re doing well!

This is Your name from Your class  at time . I had a question about * elaborate on the question.*

We hope that you’re now well-versed on how to write an email to a professor of yours. However, how do you go about cold emailing a professor for a research opportunity? That’s a great question! Let’s see.

How to email a professor for research opportunities

Luckily, the format for emailing a professor for research is not too different from that of emailing any professor. So, if you’ve already read all our tips above, you’re off to a head start. However, there are a few differences. 

Components to include

Before we get into what makes an email to a professor for research different, we should first list the basic components of this type of email (as they largely overlap with a normal email to a professor). Any email to a professor (for research) should:

• Have an informative subject line
• Be professional and straightforward
• Include their title and name
• Include why you want to join their research lab (why you’re interested in their research specifically)
• Mention any previous experience (if applicable)
• Elaborate on why research is important to you/will help you reach your goals
• Ask to schedule a time to meet or discuss possible research opportunities
• Your resume and transcript (attached to the email!)

Since we’ve already covered most of these components above (under Emailing Professors: A How-To Guide), we’ll now be focusing mainly on the unique aspects of writing an email to a professor for research. 

Don’t miss:  All about graduate assistantships

Do your research!

If you’re interested in doing research, now’s your time to show off your skills! Before you go about emailing any research professor for an opportunity to work in their lab, you must first know what their lab studies. Doing this research will help you elaborate on why you want to join their specific lab, rather than any others, which will help you stand out amongst possible applicants (and will help you know if you’re actually a good fit for the lab or not!).

Why are you interested in their research?

After you’ve done research on the research of the professor you’d like to work with, use this information to detail what exactly about their research interests you. This can normally be done within 1-2 sentences, and should be specific – make sure to relate it to your interests and goals! This may look something like:

I am particularly interested in topic . I recently read your name/year of research paper on topic and developed an interest in your research. Specifically, I was fascinated by mention one of the findings of the research paper . If possible, I would love the opportunity to work in your lab to help contribute to further research on this topic during time frame.

If this seems a little confusing right now, don’t fret! We have some actual examples for later, so you can get an idea of what this section should look like when real topics and findings are included.

Ask to schedule a meeting

Now, it’s time to schedule a meeting (or, at least ask to)! After you go about mentioning what you find interesting about their research and expressing an interest in working in their lab, you should make a request to meet with them. There’s a few different ways you can do this:

• “ If you know of any internship, volunteer, or work positions available in research over the summer, I would love to set up a time to talk about these potential opportunities.”
• “If you have time, I would love to set up a time to talk about potential research opportunities.”
• “Would you be available to meet sometime this week to discuss your research?”
• “Would it be possible to meet with you to further discuss Topic and my possible involvement in research? I am available on Days and Times .”

Simple, right? After you ask to schedule a meeting, we highly recommend mentioning that your transcript and resume are attached to the email (and make sure to actually attach them). If you do not attach them, professors will often ask for them promptly afterwards (but not always).

Last, but not least, finish off the email with a nicety! You can do it more formally, with something like, “I greatly appreciate your time and consideration.” Or, you can do it more casually, with something along the lines of, “I look forward to hearing from you!”

Which way you choose is ultimately up to you – just make sure to be respectful! 

More examples

Time for some more examples! These are real examples of emails written to professors, in which students were asking for research opportunities (although some names and info have been slightly altered). Here we go!

1.  Email from a student without any prior research experience:

“Dear Dr. Lee,

I hope this email finds you well. My name is Abigail Thompson and I am a first-year undergraduate at the University of Minnesota, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Japanese. I am currently looking for opportunities to get involved with research over the summer. 

Psychological research, especially that relating to social psychology, sounds very interesting to me, so I am hoping to get involved early into my undergraduate career. I have reviewed your faculty profile and am interested in name of the research paper , especially how you explored how people who have experienced traumas cope with what they’ve been through. If you know of any internship, volunteer, or work positions available in research over the summer, I would love to set up a time to talk about these potential opportunities. I greatly appreciate your time and consideration, and my resume and transcript are attached to this email.

2.  Email from a student with prior research experience:

“ Dear Dr. Pudi,

I hope this email finds you well. My name is Jacqueline Fisher and I am a sophomore at UCLA, majoring in Psychology. I am currently looking for opportunities to get involved with research for this upcoming semester or over the summer. 

Last summer, I assisted in research at the University of California, Berkeley, where we studied people’s psychological responses to traumatic events. I am also interested in developmental psychology and how your research studies the effects of marital conflict on children.

If you have time, I would love to set up a time to talk about potential research opportunities. I greatly appreciate your time and consideration, and my resume is attached to this email. 

Have a wonderful time frame .

Jacqueline ”

Dear Reader,

You’ve now reached the end of the article!

I hope that this guide (and our example emails) have helped you gain the knowledge and skill of being able to email your professors (for class, research, or otherwise!). It’s sure to come in handy at some point, so, we wish you good luck, and send you off!

All the best,

Don’t miss:  How to write an essay about yourself

Scholarships360 Recommended

10 Tips for Successful College Applications

Coalition vs. Common App: What is the difference?

College Application Deadlines 2023-2024: What You Need to Know

Trending now.

How to Convert Your GPA to a 4.0 Scale

PSAT to SAT Score Conversion: Predict Your Score

What Are Public Ivy League Schools?

3 reasons to join scholarships360.

• Automatic entry to our $10,000 No-Essay Scholarship
• Personalized matching to thousands of vetted scholarships
• Quick apply for scholarships exclusive to our platform

By the way...Scholarships360 is 100% free!

• AI Email Writer
• Thought Hub

Updated on December 14, 2023

How to write an email to a professor

There’s a certain formality that comes with how to write an email to a professor. You aren’t dealing with a high-paying job interview, but a certain approach can go a long way with the right professor. Many people stress over certain nuances and requirements in their writing, as they want their message to leave a positive impression. This article will cover how to write emails to professors, alongside a handful of do's and don'ts you should always remember. On top of that, we'll also go over how AImReply can help you craft the perfect email.

Employ the full range of AI advantages with AImReply and express your thoughts faultlessly in every email.

For some students, emailing their professors can be stressful at every turn. Many worry about saying the wrong thing, which can lead to wasted time and stress. Thankfully, there's plenty of advice from the experts, which means you have all the support you'll ever need.

To get started, we’re going to look at a few templates that’ll help you learn how to write emails to professors. Of course, it’s more than just a single method, as some examples are bound to be effective with some professors compared to others.

Templates for Inspiration

What makes writing emails so challenging for people is the starting point. Overthinking the beginning and direction of your message only makes the rest of the steps even more difficult.

By working with a few templates, you can use them as a base for your own message while keeping it personalized to the necessary tone and context. You can use these near verbatim or give them a special twist that resonates more with your personal voice.

If you aren’t sure how to write an email to professors, it's best to assume you should stick with a formal tone. This will always work with a professor, even if it lacks some of your own personality. Using this template is a safe bet if you're unsure about how you should approach your professor via email.

Dear [professor’s name] My name is [your name], and I’m currently a student in your class [class name]. I’m reaching out as I had a question that I wanted some insight on, and I thought you could help. [Insert question here]. Any time you spend on this would be greatly appreciated, and my apologies for any inconvenience. I look forward to your response! Thank you. All the best, [your name]

This approach covers your needs while being careful about what you're asking for. Even if it's a question, it's important not to make your message sound demanding, as if your inquiry is a requirement.

The reality is that no student is perfect, and sometimes excuses are needed to get through the day. Although excuses aren’t necessarily encouraged, they can be helpful in giving yourself a little extra wiggle room with deadlines. If you need to send an effective excuse to your professor, consider implementing the following template.

Dear [professor’s name], This is [your name], and I'm a part of your [insert class name]. First and foremost, I apologize that I was unable to [insert what you need an excuse for]. There were a few personal circumstances that were out of my hands at the time, and I simply couldn't meet the deadline. Not only will this not happen again, but I’ll make sure to communicate better moving forward. I appreciate your understanding. All the best, [your name]

This message offers all the sincerity you need without going over the top like you’re writing a monologue. Short and sweet is best for these types of emails.

Even the best students miss deadlines every once in a while. One way you can save yourself if you’re behind on work is to ask your professor for an extension. If you want this to go your way, then you’ll need to know how to write an email to professors. The template below acts as a practical blueprint for when you need to ask your professor for an extension.

Dear [professor’s name], This is [your name], and I’m a part of your class [insert class name]. We have [insert assignment] that’s due in a few days, and I honestly don’t believe I’ll be able to get it finished on time. I'm sending this email to inquire if it would be possible to get a small extension on this assignment. This request won't become a trend by any means; I just need a little more time on this one. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you. All the best, [your name]

With what you're asking, your best bet is to remain sincere and to the point. There's no need to beat around the bush or makeup excuses; just be direct and ask for what you need. You just have to be hopeful your professor is feeling generous in this situation.

Tips and Tricks

Aside from the templates above, you should keep several tips and tricks in your back pocket whenever you need to write this email. Knowing how to write emails to professors can put you in a positive light and save you unnecessary stress down the road.

Here are a few notes you should take with you:

• Make sure to always refer to the professor by name at the beginning of your email
• Introduce yourself; professors have a lot of names to remember
• Always check your writing for grammar and spelling
• Make use of a formal closing with every email, regardless of the context

Combining these points with the notes above will set you on the right path to an effective email. Learning how to write an email to assistant professors or the professors themselves should all come with the same tact.

Being yourself is okay, but you shouldn't ever drop that sense of professionalism. If you find the whole process extremely taxing, then you might find our tool, AImReply, quite useful.

What is AImReply?

Using the power of artificial intelligence , AImReply is a tool that you can use to craft unique and personalized email responses. You can adapt this AI email writer tool to your specified tone, style, length, and a variety of other parameters with a little input. What this does is save you time and the stress of sending emails to your professor, or anyone else for that matter.

It can also be held to uphold ongoing conversions without losing tone or context. Through tailored communication, you can send optimized and effective emails to your professor. The tool is available as a convenient Google Chrome extension, as well as through web or mobile version, which enables you to handle your inbox no matter where you are. What’s great is that it’s entirely free to be used. Make use of our free subscription and start using AImReply within minutes.

The bottom line

You may not be able to get around emailing your professor, but you don't have to do it alone. Using AImReply to your advantage can take the stress off the process while increasing your emails' effectiveness.

Taking advantage of the free subscription enables you to see what AImReply is capable of. AImReply is more than equipped to handle back-and-forth conversations with your professor.

• Web version
• Google Chrome Extension
• Mobile version

March 25, 2024

Having to call in a sick day can be nerve-wracking as we want to convey the situation as clearly as possible. To avoid causing any hassle for colleagues when you’re sick, you’ll want to know how to write a sick day email for work.

March 18, 2024

If you want to get paid on time, you’ll want to learn how to write an invoice email for any professional situation. Although you’re owed payment for your work, being courteous and professional in your writing is important.

March 15, 2024

In the world of business, you have to be able to sell yourself. This is where it can be helpful to know how to write an introductory email for business purposes. As with any form of professional communication via email, there’s always a bit of tact when it comes to the writing.

Sample Email For Sending Assignment To Professor

• January 11, 2023
• Academic Emails

Communication between professors and students is normal in the educational field. Students are advised to reach out to their professors if they have any academic challenges.

Emails are the preferred means of communication between faculty and students. To facilitate this, most educational institutions provide both faculty and students with professional email addresses.

Students looking to submit assignments and other relevant documents can send them through these emails. To make it easier to send emails to your professor, we’ve also created some templates, that can easily be modified for the purpose.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re sending an assignment on time or you missed the deadline, we’ve put together some great emails to make things easier.

Use Proper Title

Use school email, formal tone, correct grammar, identify yourself, clear and brief, explain your situation, don’t forget attachment, wait patiently, clear subject line, end formally, school website, course syllabus, other students, template 1: assignment submission, template 2: assignment submission, template 3: late assignment submission, template 4: requesting feedback on assignment, template 5: delivering first part of assignment (multiple part assignment), tips for emailing professors.

There’s no need to worry about the content of your email to your professor. Simply follow some basic and professional curtsy to avoid any problems while increasing the chances of a positive response.

You should avoid using informal titles when addressing them. Keep in mind you’re addressing their station and using their official email address.

No one wants their school to think they’re over-friendly with one of their students. School administrators have access to these emails so you should address the professor properly.

Additionally, professors put in a lot of effort to achieve their titles. So, you should address them as such.

If they aren’t yet professors, address them as Dr. if that’s what they are. Addressing a professor as Dr. could end up causing problems.

Students may not consider it a big deal but professors appreciate it when students use the title, they worked their hardest to earn.

Examples: Dear Professor {{ Last name }} Dear Dr. {{ Last name }}

In this age of information, colleges worldwide provide their students with emails they can use to communicate with their peers and faculty. Any communication between faculty and students is expected to pass through these emails.

Students are usually forbidden from contacting professors through their personal email addresses. Not only does this help you the student but it also helps the professor.

The school would be able to moderate any conversation between staff and students and the emails can easily be retrieved in the event of any investigation.

Contacting a professor through their personal emails is a good way to get them into trouble or receive no response from the professor.

They expect work-related emails through their official email addresses. Contacting them through their personal email addresses could end up annoying them.

It doesn’t matter how close you may be to the professor. You should always use a formal tone in your emails. Refrain from using emojis and other slang that are considered informal.

Keep in mind that the professor is not one of your peers. Using formal language is a sign of respect for the professor and their station.

You’re writing to the professor at their formal station. Ensure that you use a formal tone when communicating with them. Additionally, any sign of over-friendliness between students and professors could lead to questions.

No one likes reading bad vocabulary and this includes professors. They expect students at that level of education to have good writing skills, especially when writing simple emails.

To avoid common grammar errors, students can use tools like Grammarly to identify and rectify such mistakes. These tools are completely free and integrate well into your favorite email client.

That said, it’s worth noting that these tools aren’t perfect. So, it’s advisable to go through your writing even after Grammarly corrections have been made to avoid any mistakes.

It doesn’t matter how entitled you may be feeling, you should always be polite in your emails, especially to people in authority. Even if you dislike the professor, you shouldn’t show it in your email.

Try your best to be polite in your email, unless you’re looking for a negative or no response. The professor would most likely skip over your email if your tone isn’t polite.

Don’t give the professor unnecessary work to do. They have busy schedules and the last thing they want to do is spend the next few hours looking through their student list to identify who you are or which class you may be in.

Introduce yourself, your class, and section (if applicable) in your email or add it to the email signature.

Don’t write them an entire essay, it isn’t an assignment. Keep your message as short as you possibly can, while maintaining all necessary formality.

Professors receive emails from different sources daily and wouldn’t have the time to read through your long email. So, it’s advisable to keep your email short and to the point while maintaining a polite tone.

Explain what you need from them as politely as you can. Don’t just demand something from them as if you’re entitled to it. They would simply ignore your email and focus on more pressing matters.

If you’ve already discussed what you need from them earlier, you can politely remind them in a single sentence. You don’t need to remind them of the time you met and everything that occurred.

If you’re submitting an assignment, you should ensure that it’s properly attached. Those things can be quite tricky sometimes.

Can’t remember the number of times I sent an email informing someone of an attachment only to receive a response that I didn’t attach the documents.

Ensure that the assignment is properly attached before you click send on your email. That said, most professors would excuse the mistake so long as the deadline for submission isn’t up.

Don’t send a hundred reminder emails. You can send a reminder after 24 hours, if your email requires them to respond. Otherwise, you should simply wait or you can visit their office within.

Remember that the professor might not view something as urgent in the same way that you do. They can be working on more serious problems than you are.

Therefore, if your request is urgent and you haven’t heard from them, you can go to their office. Sending them a ton of email reminders won’t advance your cause.

It’s okay to send reminders, but you should be mindful about when, how often, and how you do it.

Depending on how urgent your request is, you can send them a reminder if you don’t hear back from them within a day or two.

Don’t wait till the last minute to send your assignment or contact your professor. While it’s advisable to submit your assignments before the deadline, you should still send them even when the deadline is passed.

Don’t wait around wondering whether they’ll accept it or not. Simply forward the document and also include an apology for the late delivery and the reasons in as few sentences as you possibly can.

It doesn’t matter how genuine your reason may be, professors won’t have time to read long excuses. So, try and simplify it for them as much as possible and they may accept your excuse with a warning or a few lost points.

If you want a response, don’t forget to include a subject in your email. Every day, professors get a ton of emails from colleagues, students, and other academic and non-academic sources.

If your email doesn’t have a subject line, it will just be ignored. The subject line can be something like this:

Example: Assignment Submission – {{ Course Title }}

Thank them for reading your email before ending it. If you didn’t provide them in the first paragraph, you can add your complete name, class, and section numbers when you sign off.

Example : Thank you Sincerely {{ Your full name }} {{ Class and Section }}

How To Find Your Professor’s Email

If this is the first time you’re emailing this professor and you don’t have their email address, you can find it by following any of these approaches.

You can locate your professor’s official email address on your school’s website. Most colleges feature faculty pages where you may learn more about specific professors, including their contact information.

You can also look at the course overview page on your learning management system for the professor’s contact details.

The course syllabus is another area where you can find the professor’s professional email address. The course syllabus often includes their contact information as well as attendance policies.

Most likely, you weren’t the only student who occasionally had to email the professor. You can get the professor’s email by asking your friends. You’ll probably get some advice on how to look for the email if none of them have it.

Sample Email For Sending Assignment to Professor

Email Subject  Assignment Submission – {{ Full name }}

Email Subject  {{ Assignment/Class name }} – Assignment Submission

Email Subject  Late Assignment Submission – {{ Your name}}

Email Subject  {{ Assignment/Class name }} – Assignment Submission and Feedback Request

Email Subject  {{ Assignment/Class name }} Assignment Submission – Part {{ Number }}

Hi there and welcome to UnitWriter. My name's Chris, an expert in crafting effective email templates for all occasions. I created this blog to share my knowledge, by offering tips and templates to help get you started on your emails. Hope it's been helpful

Related Posts

Lecture Cancelled Email (Samples)

• March 28, 2023

How To Email Professor During Holiday

• February 27, 2023

How To Write Email To Professor For Project Submission (Samples)

• February 20, 2023

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game New
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• College University and Postgraduate
• Campus Life

How to Email a Professor

Last Updated: March 13, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Ashley Pritchard, MA . Ashley Pritchard is an Academic and School Counselor at Delaware Valley Regional High School in Frenchtown, New Jersey. Ashley has over 3 years of high school, college, and career counseling experience. She has an MA in School Counseling with a specialization in Mental Health from Caldwell University and is certified as an Independent Education Consultant through the University of California, Irvine. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 4,181,727 times.

Writing an email to a professor takes a bit more thought than shooting an email to a friend or sending a text. Your education is the beginning of your professional career, and you should treat any interactions you have in a professional manner , including emailing. For instance, you should always use your academic account and open your email with a formal greeting. Treat the interaction as you would a formal business letter. Be concise, and remember, grammar counts!

Making a Good First Impression

• Your syllabus may contain information about course assignments, deadlines, class policies, and assignment formatting.
• If your professor only gives you a list of readings, it's fine to email them with a question that isn't answered in the syllabus.

• For instance, you could write "Question about Current Assignment" or "Final Essay."

• If you're not sure if the professor has a doctorate, you can address them as "Professor Jones."
• You can use a bit more informal greeting, such as "Hello Dr. Jones," if you've had personal interactions with the professor.

Creating the Content of the Email

• For instance, if you have a question about an assignment, get to the point: "I have a question about the assignment you gave us last Tuesday. Do you want us to work in groups or alone?"

• For instance, don't write, "Awesome class, man... stellar!"
• Instead, write, "You gave an enlightening lecture last class."

• For instance, you may want the professor to give you an extension on a paper . Don't say, "My grandmother died. Give me an extension on this paper." Rather, say, "I've had a difficult week with the death of my grandmother. Would you please give me an extension on this paper?"

• Don't forget to run your email through spellcheck.

Finishing Up Your Email

• For instance, you could say, "Thank you for addressing my question. I'll see you in class."
• If you'd like to meet, you could write, "I appreciate your thoughts on this issue. Would you mind if we met in person to discuss it in more detail?"

Sample Academic Emails

Sample Personal Emails

Expert Q&A

• Contact a peer first if the purpose of your email is to find out what you missed when absent. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://dean.williams.edu/files/2010/09/Guide-to-Emailing-Professors-1.pdf
• ↑ https://www.purdue.edu/advisors/students/email.php
• ↑ Ashley Pritchard, MA. Academic & School Counselor. Expert Interview. 4 November 2019.
• ↑ https://ugr.ue.ucsc.edu/email
• ↑ https://www.menlo.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/writing-a-formal-email.pdf

About This Article

To email a professor, start with a formal salutation like "Dear Professor Jones" or "Hello Professor Jones." Then, briefly explain who you are by saying something like "I'm Mike Smith and I'm in your drawing 101 class on Mondays and Thursdays." Next, get straight to the point by stating why you're emailing. Remember to use a professional tone and language so your email doesn't sound too casual. When you're finished, end your email with "Sincerely" or "Best" followed by your full name. To learn how to proofread your email before sending it, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Did this article help you?

Shanice Bryan

Jan 18, 2017

Bobbi LaBella Adams

Oct 31, 2021

Brianna Feltner

Aug 7, 2019

Reginald Morgan Jr.

Jan 15, 2019

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

How To Email Your Professor: Tips & Templates

Whether you’ve recently received a bad grade or you’re nervous about an upcoming exam, reaching out to your professor can be an uneasy experience. How can you best phrase your request in a way that’ll be well received? If you’re feeling stuck, here are our tips and templates for writing an email to a professor.

11 Tips On How To Write An Email to a Professor

If you’re unsure on where to begin or want to know what to avoid, these 11 tips can help guide you.

Use Your Academic Account

If your school provides an email address, make sure you’re writing from your school email and not your personal email. This is because they may use your email to look up your grades or assignments in their system. Plus, it shows that you’re writing from the same institution they teach. It may even help ensure delivery, assuming that your professor’s email address is from the same institution as yours.

Make the Subject Line Clear

In your subject line, you want to give a small window into the primary purpose of your email. For example, let’s say you’re asking for clarification on when a specific assignment is due. In the subject headline, you could write “[name of assignment] due date.” This subject line should give your professor a general idea of what you’re asking about, so they know what to expect in your email.

Use a Professional Greeting

When it comes to selecting the proper salutation, remember to use “Dr.” to reflect your professor’s advanced degree. For example, if your syllabus indicates that the professor is Dr. Abe Lincoln, you’ll use the greeting “Dr. Lincoln.”

You may want to peek at the syllabus for other educators who don’t have doctorate degrees to confirm their title. After all, not every teacher in a college has the same qualifications. If you still don’t know for sure, consider using “Professor” as a fallback.

State The Reason For Your Email Right Away

Short and sweet is the name of the game – an email isn’t a place for a long-winded explanation. The longer the email, the more likely your main point may be lost. That’s why you should immediately follow your greeting with a description of why you’re sending the message. Whether you have a question or just want general career advice, it’s essential to address the matter right away.

Include Class Information

Professors interact with hundreds of students regularly. Sure, that’s a lot of names and faces to memorize, but there’s also the possibility that you may share the exact name with another student, especially if you’re in a lecture hall with 400 of your peers. For that reason, include additional class information, along with your first and last name. This makes it easier for your professor to recognize who you are.

Maintain a Formal tone

Make sure your email doesn’t sound like you're texting your friend. It may sound like a silly reminder, but don’t leave proper spelling and grammar at the door. Be sure to write complete sentences, properly use capital letters, and don’t use emojis. The goal of the email is to sound formal and professional. If you wouldn’t do something in a research paper, don’t do it when you’re emailing a professor.

Don’t Ask Questions Already Covered on the Syllabus

There’s a reason you get this document at the beginning of the semester: It contains all the essential information you need to know about the class. Avoid asking questions about items that are already covered in the syllabus. For example, answers about due dates, assignment requirements, and instructor’s office hours and location are likely already there.

Communicate Clearly and Concisely

If your question is more complex than a few sentences, it might be inappropriate for an email. Instead, it may be best to compose a message asking for a face-to-face (or Zoom) meeting. However, if you do think the question can be answered via email, keep it as concise and to the point as possible.

This also may seem like obvious advice, but this can be hard if you’re upset about a grade or frustrated with an interaction that went poorly in class. Make sure that your email doesn’t reflect any of those negative feelings. Simply adding “Have a good day” at the end of your email won’t hurt.

End With a Formal Acknowledgement

Wrap up your email with a simple “Thank you,” “Sincerely,” or “Best.” Keep it short, simple, and professional. Remember to include your first name, last name, and reiterate your class information as well to remind your professor who you are.

Your instructor has to keep up with plenty of other responsibilities aside from teaching, so there’s a chance they won’t get back to you right away. If you notice that they haven’t answered you in a few days, you might want to send a follow-up email. Reply to the original email you sent to keep your messages organized. You can also go up to your instructor after class to remind them that you sent an email.

3 Free Templates For Crafting The Perfect Email To Your Professor

These templates can give you fresh ideas for writing a professional, concise, and effective email to your instructor.

How To Request An Extension On An Assignment

How to request an excused absence from class, how to request a meeting with a professor.

Subject line: Meeting Request Dear {formtext: name= Dr. Hoffstader; cols=11}, My name is {formtext: name=Penny Smith;cols=10}, and I am in your {formtext: name= French History; cols=15} class. I would like to schedule a meeting with you during your office hours on {formtext: name=April 1, 2022; cols=15}. During our meeting, I would like to discuss {formtext: name= some questions from our last lecture; cols=30}.

Please let me know if that day works for you or if another time is better. Thank you in advance for considering my request. Have a great day. Sincerely {formtext: name=Penny Smith;cols=10}

Automate Emails To Your Professors With Text Blaze

Sending an email to a professor can be a little intimidating, but don’t be nervous: It’s acceptable to send your instructor a note about classwork, a grade, or requesting an extension on an assignment. And if you’re feeling stuck for the right idea, Text Blaze’s easy-to-use, fully customizable templates can help you out with just a few clicks. Download the free Chrome extension to get started with time-saving professional text suggestions.

Hi there! You made it all the way down to the bottom of this article. Take a few seconds to share it.

Want to turbo charge your work with templates and snippets? Text Blaze is the fastest way to do that.

How to Professionally Confirm Receipt of an Email in 2024

5 best chatgpt prompts in 2024, how to use an email generator for gmail in 2024, the ultimate guide for internship cover letters in 2023, 180 report card comments for all grades in 2024, chatgpt prompts library: write and manage awesome chatgpt prompts.

How To Write An Email to a Professor: 19 Email Ready Templates

Writing an email to your professor is a daunting task.  You have to write a letter that is formal, yet friendly. You can’t be too informal or too formal. Your email should be clear and concise. It should also include all the information your professor needs to know about your request.

Here are some important tips to guide you in writing and sending your email.

• Be clear and concise.
• Your email should be easy to read and understand. Don’t use complicated words or write in long sentences. Short paragraphs are best because they make it easier for your professor to scan the letter and find what they need.
• Don’t ask for multiple things at once. Be specific.
• Be professional, but friendly. Don’t use slang or casual language when communicating with a professor. Stay on topic. Focus your email on a single issue – the one you’re requesting help with.
• Give your professor all the information he/she needs to understand what you’re asking for and how it relates to her area of expertise. For example, if you need an extension on an assignment because of illness, explain why (an illness in your family) and when this happened (two weeks ago).
• Proofread your letter before sending it. It can be hard to catch mistakes in emails, so make sure you read over your email carefully before pressing send. Check for proper spelling, grammar, punctuation and capitalization. You don’t want your professor thinking that you can’t even spell their name correctly!
• Don’t forget to say “please” and “thank you.”

Here are 19 email-ready templates to use in your next email, depending on the situation:

Email Template 1: How To Write An Email to a Professor for Applying for a course.

Hello, Professor [professor name],

I’m writing to inquire about the possibility of applying to your course. I’m very excited to take the course, and I’m sure it will be a great experience for me!

If you would like more information on the course, or if you have any questions for me, please feel free to contact me at [email address].

Thanks so much,

Email Template 2: Thanks for considering my application for joining a course.

Dear Professor [name],

Thank you for considering me for [Specific course]. I am excited to take the next step toward the fulfillment of my lifelong goal to become a nurse. I look forward to hearing from you!

Email Template 3: How To Write An Email to a Professor for Permission to take a class

I am writing to ask you to consider my request for permission to take your class. I am very excited about the opportunity, and I believe that this is a course that will be beneficial to me. I have taken many classes in the past, and I believe that this one will be different because it will focus more on practical applications of the material than other classes I have taken.

I would be grateful if you could permit me to enroll in your class, and I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Thank you for your time,

Email Template 4: Joining a course

Dear Professor

I am interested in taking your class this semester. I was wondering if you would accept me into the course. If so, do you have any recommendations for study materials or techniques that I could use to prepare? Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Email Template 5 : Rejoining the next class

Dear Professor,

I wanted to thank you for your time and guidance in class today. I felt like you helped me understand the material, and I feel like my understanding of the subject has improved significantly since taking your class. I’m looking forward to getting back into it this quarter!

Thanks again,

Email Template 6: Let’s meet and discuss.

I am writing to ask you if you would be available to meet with me on Thursday, May 20th at 2:30 pm. I have been informed that there is a class session that day that I am eligible for and will be able to attend.

I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you in person so that we can discuss my potential participation in the class session.

If your schedule allows for it, please let me know when and where we should meet so that we can set up an appointment. If you would prefer not to meet in person, but prefer to have this conversation over the phone or by email instead, please let me know as well.

Email Template 7: How To Write An Email to a Professor to discuss and get feedback about a paper.

Thank you for the opportunity to submit my essay for your course. While I appreciate the time you’ve taken to read it, I’m afraid that it does not meet the requirements of this course.

If there is any way that we can work together on a solution that fits my needs, please let me know. Otherwise, I will be happy to take your feedback and consider other options.

Email Template 8: Let’s work together on a project.

Dear Professor [first name]

I am a student at [school name] and I am writing to you about a project that I would like to work on with you. I am interested in learning more about the role of [subject] in your research, specifically about the following question: “How do you define success?”

I appreciate any time that you can give me, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

Hello, Professor!

I’m writing to you to express my interest in working on a research project with you. I would like to know if there is any way we could work together on this project. If so, what time frame would be best for me?

I am currently a Ph.D. student in [Department], where I am studying [academic topic] under the direction of Dr. [name], and I have been publishing in peer-reviewed journals since 2013 (see below).

I have experience working with students from diverse backgrounds, including students who are also immigrants or refugees, students who are English language learners, and students who have experienced trauma or social inequality as part of their lived experiences.

If you would like more information about this project or other aspects of it, please let me know and we can schedule an appointment for coffee or lunch at your convenience!

Email Template 9: How To Write An Email to a Professor to discuss a bad grade on an assignment

I was very sorry to hear that you were not pleased with my [assignment]. I had worked very hard on it, and I thought it turned out quite well. However, if there is anything that you feel could be improved about it, please let me know so that I can fix those issues before submitting another one.

Thank you for all of your help this semester.

Email Template 10: Clarity on some feedback on a paper.

I hope you’re doing well. I was hoping to get some feedback on my paper about [topic]. My professor said that it was very interesting, but he wanted me to clarify a few things with him before he could sign off on it.

What do you think? Are there any parts of the paper that you feel need clarification or further explanation? Is there anything you’d like me to add?

Thanks so much for your help!

Email Template 11: Applying for a position at a university.

I’m writing to you because I am interested in applying for the [position title] at your university. I am an undergraduate student at [university name] and I am currently majoring in [major]. I would love to learn more about how your courses will help me prepare for the job market, and I hope that you can meet with me in person to discuss this.

Please let me know if you can schedule a meeting, or if you prefer it, we can connect via phone or email instead.

Thank you for your time.

Email Template 12: A request to consider a paper for publication.

I am a senior in [school], and I wrote my [course] final paper for your class. I hope you will consider it for publication in the [journal]. The paper can be found here: [link to the paper].

I would like to know if you have any comments about my work, so please let me know what you think. I look forward to your response.

Email Template 13: Learn more about your research.

Hello Professor,

I’m writing to you because I found your research interesting and would like to learn more about it. I have a few questions that I would like to discuss with you via email.

If this is not a good time for me to reach out, please let me know when would be best for us to talk.

Email Template 14: Learn more about your field of work.

I hope you’re doing well. I’m writing to ask you about a topic that’s been on my mind for quite some time.

I was recently reading about your work in [subject area]. It struck me as incredibly relevant to what I’m studying now, and I thought it might be useful for me to take a look at how it could be applied to my research. If you have any time left over the next few weeks, perhaps we could meet up and discuss some ideas.

Please let me what time works best. Thank you,

Email Template 15:How To Write An Email to a Professor to ask a question about an assignment.

I have a question about the assignment on [subject]. I was wondering if you would mind if I looked at your notes from class and asked some questions about the assignment. I think it will help me understand the material better, as well as help me improve my understanding.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Email Template 16: Email on Advice about approaching an assignment.

Hello, Professor [professor’s name]!

I was hoping you could help me with a problem I’m having with my [subject]. We’re working on a paper and I think we have the right idea, but I’m having trouble coming up with a way to express it in writing. Can you give me some advice on how to write the paper?

Thanks a lot!

Email Template 17: Absent for class.

I am writing to let you know that I will be absent from class this week. I was planning on taking a trip to the beach with my family, but unfortunately, my father is sick and can’t come along. I hope this doesn’t inconvenience you too much!

Best wishes,

Email Template 18: A thank you note.

I hope you’re doing well. I’m a student of yours, and I’ve been meaning to thank you for your course on [subject]. It’s been really interesting, and I think you’re an incredible instructor.

I just wanted to say that I appreciate the time and effort you put into teaching this course—it was one of my favourites.

Anyway, thanks again!

Email Template 19: How To Write An Email to a Professor for A follow-up email about an internship at the university.

Hello [professor’s name],

I was wondering if you could please let me know the status of my request for an internship at the university. I sent you an email a few days ago, but haven’t heard back yet.

• Sample Email To Professor Asking for A Meeting | 12 Examples (Opens in a new browser tab)
• An Email to Join A Course: 5 Email Templates
• Sample Email To Professor Asking for A Meeting | 12 Examples
• Sick Email To Professor 47 Email Templates
• Sample Email to Professor Regarding Grade | 15 Email Templates
• How to Write an Enquiry Email to University | 23 Email Templates

Related Posts

Emotional Goodbye Email to Colleagues: 9 Professional Sample Emails

Coffee mug gift ideas: 9 Supercool Work from Home Mug Designs

17 Reminder Email Sample Templates | Upcoming deadline

13 Cease and Desist Letter Examples

How to End email to Professor | 37 Email Samples

Best Email Response to An Angry Customer : 5 Sample Emails

How To Write an Email For Submission Of Assignment

Welcome to this informative article that will guide you on how to write an effective email for the submission of your assignment. If you’re unsure about how to draft an email for submitting your assignment, this article is here to help you!

Table of Contents

What To Do Before Writing the Email

Before you start writing the actual email, it’s important to take a few preparatory steps to ensure that your email is clear, concise, and professional:

• Gather all necessary information related to your assignment, such as the due date, submission guidelines, and any specific instructions given by your instructor.
• Review your assignment to ensure it meets the requirements and makes sense.
• If your instructor has provided a specific email address or subject line to use, make note of it.
• Consider attaching your assignment in the appropriate format if required.

What to Include In the Email

When composing your email for assignment submission, it’s important to include the following parts:

Subject Line

Choose a subject line that clearly indicates the purpose of your email. For example, “Assignment Submission – [Course Name]”. This helps the recipient identify the email’s content quickly.

Begin your email with a polite and professional greeting, such as “Dear Professor [Last Name],” or “Hi [Instructor’s Name],”. Use the appropriate salutation based on your relationship with the recipient.

Introduction

Introduce yourself briefly and mention the course or assignment you are submitting. This provides context for the recipient.

In the body of the email, mention any relevant details or specific instructions provided by your instructor. Clearly state that you are submitting your assignment and acknowledge the due date. If there are any additional comments or questions related to the assignment, include them here.

End your email with a courteous closing, such as “Thank you,” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name and contact information. This shows professionalism and makes it easy for the recipient to respond if necessary.

How to write a formal email to a professor

What emails do professors receive?

How to write an email to a professor, example of an email to a professor, wrapping up.

55% of people use email to communicate about work-related issues, and the education industry is no exception. In fact, it has the highest email open and click-through rates of all industries. Since email is so widely used in universities, it’s crucial to learn the correct way to communicate through it.

In this article, we will explore ways to enhance the appearance of your emails to professors, covering everything from crafting an engaging headline to including a formal closing. In addition, we’ll show you Stripo’s editor features that will help you create and organize your emails quickly and easily.

46.8% of teachers check their work email more than 10 times a day. Here are some of the main types of emails they receive:

• questions about the lecture material, class syllabus, etc.;
• feedback on the assignment;
• notification of absence or personal problems;
• discussions of academic or future career advice;
• requests for recommendations;
• participation in research;
• cooperation or consultation with various companies;
• scheduling appointments.

I also asked the experts how often professors receive emails and which ones they pay the most attention to.

I receive emails nearly every day from students. Most are regarding grades and related matters, but the ones I take the most seriously are the student emails that tell me what they’ve learned from me and express gratitude, and also more personal messages from students who are struggling in class and/or in their lives. I also answer students who ask me for work references, and I nearly always provide them.

First and foremost, it is corporate communication with my students (meaning those for whom I am a supervisor of research, internships, etc., or a teacher of a discipline). They are usually the most numerous. The lion's share of emails are offered to participate in various scientific and practical events. Then, there is information on subscription materials (if I specified a corporate email for this purpose), correspondence with colleagues from other universities, and projects I participate in.

Whether you are a student who wants to get feedback on a current assignment, a fellow scientist, or a representative of a company conducting research, it’s important to use a certain professional tone to ensure that your emails get noticed and don’t cause a negative reaction. Let’s take a look at each aspect of such an email.

Subject line

Start with a clear, specific subject line. Make sure it directly relates to your email’s purpose, allowing your professor to understand your needs at a glance. For example, use “Extension Request for Research Paper” or “Clarification on Syllabus.”

You might also like

Professor’s title

Begin your email with a polite greeting. Opt for a formal salutation like “Dear” or “Hello,” accompanied by your instructor’s title, which could be “Professor [Last Name]” or "Dr. [Last Name].” 

In different countries, the approach to addressing teachers varies according to cultural and educational norms. For instance:

• USA: Professors are often called “Professor Smith” or “Dr. Smith,” with “Mr.” or “Ms.” as less formal alternatives.
• United Kingdom: It’s common to use academic titles and surnames or sometimes surnames alone in a formal context.
• Germany: Correct academic titles are crucial with formal addresses, like “Herr Professor Doktor Schmidt.”
• France: Teachers are typically called “Monsieur” or “Madame,” with academic titles used less frequently at early education levels.
• Japan: The suffix “-sensei” is added to surnames, signifying respect.
• India: Addresses are less formal, often using “Sir” or “Ma’am” without specifying names.

If you read us from other countries, please write in the comments about how you address professors there. We will gladly add this to the article.

Self-introduction

Introduce yourself, including your name and the class you’re in—for example, “My name is Alex, and I am enrolled in your ___class.” It helps to specify, since professors often handle multiple classes and may not recognize every student. If you’re already known to your professor, simply start with a friendly greeting like, “Hope your week is going well!” or “Happy Friday!”

Stating your purpose clearly

While preparing this article, I came across numerous tips to keep your main message concise. The professors themselves also write about this on Quora .

After your introduction, it’s vital to directly state why you’re contacting your professor, keeping it brief due to their tight schedules. Strike a balance where you’re neither too formal nor too casual, steering clear of colloquial language and humor. Specify any action you need from them, like a deadline extension or feedback request.

And here's some expert advice that summarizes all of the above.

It’s best to keep emails short and to the point and refrain from being too informal. Use subject lines, and don’t start with a “Hey” or a demand. It’s a turn-off.

What to avoid? There are three main groups:

a) lack of specificity, illogic, unreasonableness - if something is proposed, the professor automatically analyzes the text along the chain: what is the essence, purpose, task, and what is my function or role here?

b) references to sources, persons, etc., that are difficult to check, verify, and confirm their existence and origin. This is a factor of reliability and truthfulness of information;

c) illiteracy and vagueness of statements, because in most cases, this leads to termination of correspondence, if the situation allows it or to an endless number of emails of clarification regarding the correct perception of information by both parties;

d) disrespect— at least to the title, at most to the experience.

How long should the text be? It all depends on the situation. You can read lengthy letters if it is an already established correspondence on a particular issue. For professors, the amount of text is fine. The main thing is whether it is worth reading :). I can read up to 800-1000 characters in an entire email. If this is the first letter of inquiry, it is better to agree on the further correspondence format, both in the letter itself and in the attached files.

Speeding up the email creation process with Stripo

Let’s say you’re sending a request for research to many experts. This is where you can use Stripo content modules to build emails faster. These blocks make it easy to save, combine, and move important details from one message to another, speeding up the process when you have many emails to send. Our email templates are structured to automatically divide into these manageable sections, all of which are accessible in your personal library.

(Source: Stripo editor)

If you represent a university or a company interested in collaborating with professors, take a look at this template from Stripo. It serves as an example of how to present information in an engaging and structured manner. As usual, you can edit and customize all the elements to suit your needs.

Formal closing

Sign off your email with a note of thanks, expressing appreciation with phrases such as “Thank you for your understanding and support” or a straightforward “Thanks for your time.” Finish with a courteous closing, using your first name. Simple and respectful sign-offs like “Best,” “Thanks,” “Sincerely,” or “Regards” are advisable.

Follow-up etiquette

Is it necessary to respond to a professor after receiving an answer from them? Deborah J. Cohan, a Professor of Sociology at the University of South Carolina-Beaufort, noted in her article that addressing a professor without responding to or even checking your emails afterward is considered very impolite.

There was even a whole discussion about this on Reddit . Opinions were divided: Some believed that offering thanks for the response was a basic rule of etiquette, while others worried that they would distract the professor once again with their new message. But a user in this thread who teaches at a university emphasized that thanking is a must. According to them, doing so not only allows you to be polite but also confirms that you have understood everything.

Correct grammar

Whether the professor teaches humanities or sciences, sending them an email with grammatical errors is something you want to avoid.

Proofreading is essential, and with the Stripo editor, you can effortlessly check your text for errors using the built-in GenAI tool . This tool helps you enhance your email by correcting grammar, shortening or supplementing the text, translating, and even changing the tone of the message.

I also asked our expert about an interesting real-life example.

Correspondence with students is a daily quest :). An interesting and extraordinary one? Perhaps when I was asked to take a survey on the vision of Ukraine's future development in the context of priority industries, directions, and areas of economic drivers. What made the email memorable? In addition to a well-formed questionnaire, the letter was clearly and logically constructed with a rational justification of why "my" opinion is interesting and important to them.

Following all the recommendations, I made an example of an email to a professor requesting to join a physics class. I was polite and expressed the main point of the message, noting how impressed the student was with the professor’s work, which is also advised by experts.

(Source: Stripo template )

Mastering email etiquette is crucial for your academic career. In this article, we have discussed the importance of respectful and clear communication with professors, as well as how the Stripo editor simplifies the process of creating emails and makes them more attractive. 

Using Stripo's tools, you can effectively organize and customize your messages, ensuring that they resonate with your recipients. We are here to support you as you improve your email skills. We wish you great achievements in your studies—Stripo is happy to be a part of your university toolkit.

An email to your professor

Learn how to write an email to your university professor.

Do the preparation task first. Then read the text and tips and do the exercises.

Preparation

Matching_MjMwNzk=

Dear Professor Henley,

I am writing to inform you that, unfortunately, I am unable to continue to attend the Logic II course this semester. I would like to request permission to defer as I understand that this is only possible with your approval.

The issue is that I am currently doing an internship with ABC Ltd. It started in July and will continue until the end of the semester. The internship takes up 25 hours per week and I am concerned that it does not leave me with enough time to study. I have already asked if I can reduce my hours there, but this is not possible.

With your approval, I could take Logic II next semester instead. I realise that this would mean a heavier workload than usual next semester, but I assure you that I would be able to manage my time and keep up.

Thank you for considering my request and I would be happy to come in and discuss the matter further.

Sarah Price

• Use the person's job title if you don't know their name (e.g. Dear Admissions Tutor , Dear Marketing Manager ).
• Start your email by clearly giving your reason for writing. Then you can explain the problem.
• People are busy, so make it short and clear. Just include the most important information.
• If you have a solution to the problem, suggest it and politely ask if it can be done. If you don't, politely request help.
• Finish by thanking the person for their help and offering to discuss the matter further if necessary.
• Regards , (also With regards,   Best regards, or Kind regards, ) is a more friendly-sounding sign-off than Yours sincerely, but it is still formal.

TrueOrFalse_MjMwODA=.xml

MultipleChoice_MjMwODE=.xml

GapFillTyping_MjMwODI=.xml

What are some good and bad reasons for giving up a course?

Language level

In my opinion, On the one hand, situations haven't got meaning. Good and bad are labels to which we attach them. Maybe, giving up a course for not having a good mood ends up in a positive change in one person, and for another one, it ends up in bad happens.

On the other hand, Sometimes a reason is completely justifiable to a person while the same reason is just an excuse for another one because people have different abilities for managing their problems, relationships, financial situation, or even, health.

The worst thing to do is to compare ourselves with others' abilities or whatever is common and acceptable in society. This path makes us just blame ourselves, and it ends with bad feelings about ourselves.

I'm usually, but not always, honest with myself. I'm trying to do my best, but I have accepted I'm not perfect. If I make a mistake or a bad choice, I will forgive myself and let myself keep on the way with a good feeling. It's the only way I can go on and be better than before whenever I have been able to treat like this about my mistake, everything has gone in my favor.

• Log in or register to post comments

Probably lack of motivation, laziness, conflict of schedule, financial problems or could be due to illness, there are so many reasons behind dropping out a course and it entirely depends on every individual. The good part of dropping out a course is you get time to think what is more important and focus on the courses that your interested in, the downside of it is heavy workload by next semester.

One good reason for giving up a course, is that the family need is greater. One bad reason for giving up a course, is lack of interest.

Firstly I write bad reason to giving up the course. For the vacation is very bad to giving important course. Attend party, marriage ceremony and for going to cinema is bad reason Good reason,, Health problems, anyone in this have not Full immune system so if someone is health damage then surely take a rest

I don`t think it has the reason or justification to give up from something... Maybe if the reason is health problem... I know doesn`t matter how difficult is something "I can; I must to do; I will be better after that". In my country we tell: "I'm scratching with teeth and nails to do my goal" Everything depends of purpose, maybe and education...

Online courses

Group and one-to-one classes with expert teachers.

Learn English in your own time, at your own pace.

One-to-one sessions focused on a personal plan.

Get the score you need with private and group classes.  

How to email a professor: 7-step guide with examples

What’s email worthy?

How to start your email to your professor.

• “Dear Professor [last name]”
• “Hello Dr. [last name]”

How to end email to professor

Information to include in your email, how to email a professor: your checklist.

• Define your subject line: your subject line should be concise and effectively detail what your email will be about.
• Make appropriate salutations: Begin the email with an appropriate greeting followed by ‘Professor.’
• Detail your reason for the email: In the body of the email be specific and detailed about your reason for sending an email to your professor.
• Attach necessary information: Depending on the reason for the email, it might be helpful to attach additional information. For example, if you are sick and requesting an excused absence, you might want to attach the sick note to the email.
• Make an appropriate sign-off statement: Construct the perfect closing line by thanking your professor for their time. This shows gratitude for their assistance with your request.  
• Sign your full name: Because this is your professor we are talking about and not a family member, it is ideal that you sign your full first and last name at the end of the email. This also allows the professor to look up any necessary information if your email address does not explicitly have your name spelled out.
• Proofread your email: Reading it once again even out loud can help you catch mistakes or typos in your email.

Email to professor samples:

Clarify an assignment, notify of absence and request materials, email asking for a recommendation letter, request a meeting, bonus: write a follow-up email.

75 people found this article helpful.

This article was helpful

This article was not helpful

Related articles

How to write email invitations for a birthday party or event

Professional emails: How to write an effective business email

Email greetings: Best ways to address an email formally and casually