Grades & teachers
How to ask your teacher to move a test
Have a good reason? Here’s what to say, whether it’s just you or your whole class.
Ask early, give a real reason, and suggest a new day. Teachers say yes a lot more when you ask a few days ahead, not the morning of the test.
Good reasons to ask
“I didn’t study” or “we don’t want to” won’t work. A reason that helps you do your best will.
If it’s just you
Subject: Could I take the [test name] on a different day?
Hi [teacher’s name],
I’m writing about the [test name] on [date]. [Pick one: I hurt my [hand / arm] and can’t write well right now. / I’ve been really stressed, and I have [two other tests / a big project] that week. / I have a [doctor visit / family event] that day.]
Could I take it on [new day] instead? I want to be ready and do my best.
Thank you,
[your name], [class], period [#]
If you’re hurt or sick, a note from a parent or doctor helps. If stress is the reason, you can also talk to your counselor. They can talk to your teachers for you.
If it’s a whole group
- Check how many people it affects. Ask around in class or in the group chat.
- Pick one or two people to ask. A few calm voices work better than 25 angry ones.
- Suggest a new day that works. Make it easy for your teacher to say yes.
Subject: Could we move the [test name]?
Hi [teacher’s name],
A lot of us in period [#] have a problem with the [test name] on [date]. [Pick one: Most of us have three tests that day. / The [game / meet / homecoming] is the night before, and [number] of us will be there.]
Could we move it to [new day]? We think more of us would do well on it.
Thank you,
[your names], period [#]
If they say no
- Say thank you anyway. It makes the next ask easier.
- Ask for a study guide or a few minutes of help before the test.
- If you’re hurt, sick, or struggling, ask your counselor to help.