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Mandatory attendance requirement for pre-apprenticeship students

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Find out how the mandatory attendance requirement for pre-apprenticeship programs at our Institute of Skilled Trades (IST) applies to you.

Students enrolled in NSCC’s Institute of Skilled Trades (IST) pre-apprenticeship programs are required to attend at least 90% of the scheduled hours in every course. This requirement supports student success, program completion and better reflects workplace expectations shared by industry and employers.

The mandatory attendance requirement starts in September 2026 and applies to all new and returning students in IST pre-apprenticeship programs.

Academic Performance Policy

How attendance is calculated and tracked

Attendance is calculated based on total course hours. If you arrive late or leave early, it counts as 1 full hour missed, even if gone for part of the hour.

Instructors record attendance hourly, starting at the beginning of each class. You’re expected to review attendance records regularly with your instructor and notify your instructor immediately – and no later than 24 hours after the class – if you believe attendance was recorded incorrectly. After that window, corrections may not be considered.

How to request an excused absence

Some absences may be excused, but only if approved by the Academic Chair. Excused absences can include:

  • Bereavement
  • Approved cultural or religious observances
  • Medical appointments or illness requiring medical attention
  • Other extenuating circumstances approved by the Academic Chair

If you miss a class (planned or unplanned), you must notify your instructor in writing using your NSCC email as soon as possible.

If your absence is excused, you’re still responsible for all coursework, including assignments, tests and evaluations. An excused absence does not mean being exempt from academic requirements.

Impacts of missing too much class time

You’ll receive early notification when approaching the 10% unexcused absence threshold and additional notice if you exceed it. If you accumulate more than 10% unexcused missed hours, you’re considered non-compliant. This can result in both:

  • Being withdrawn from the course
  • Receiving a grade of “F” or “W” depending on timing and academic deadlines

If you do not successfully complete a course, it may affect your ability to continue in your program as IST programs require you to pass certain courses before advancing.

Appealing if low attendance affects your final grade

If your final grade is impacted due to attendance tracking, you can appeal through NSCC’s Student Academic Appeals Policy using the final grade appeal process.

Addressing concerns early

If you’re concerned about attending consistently or nearing the absence limit, you should contact your instructor. You may also contact your Academic Chair or Student Services, for additional supports. The expectation is that concerns are addressed before you become non-compliant.

Academic accommodations

Attendance related to approved academic accommodations follows NSCC’s Academic Accommodations Policy. This means your situation is handled according to your accommodation plan, not the standard attendance rules alone.

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