/Office of the Registrar
Office of the Registrar

Religious Observances

Stony Brook University is committed to ensuring that all students can pursue their education while observing their religious traditions. To support this commitment, the Office of the Provost, through the Office of the Registrar, maintains a list of major religious holidays that occur during the academic year.

Prior to the start of each fall and spring semester, the university communicates with faculty, instructors, and students to ensure they are aware of expectations, available resources, and procedures related to religious observances and academic instruction.

Religious Observances Google Calendar

  • Faculty are strongly encouraged to avoid scheduling exams, presentations, papers, or other major assignments on listed religious holidays. If this cannot be avoided, students must be provided an opportunity to complete equivalent make-up work.

  • Students should notify their instructor as early as possible if they will miss class or coursework due to a religious observance. At that time, they should discuss arrangements for making up missed material or assignments.

  • Graduate teaching assistants (TAs) should coordinate with the lead instructor regarding class coverage when religious observances occur.

  • Questions or guidance related to religious observances may be directed to the Office of the Provost at provost@stonybrook.edu.

Please note that the university’s calendar includes only religious holidays that occur during official academic terms, sessions, or modules, and the dates may vary each year. The listing is not exhaustive of all religions or observances. While daily or weekly religious practices are not specifically listed, the university remains committed to accommodating students in accordance with New York State Education Law 224-A.

Students, faculty, and instructors who need information about reporting discrimination may contact the Stony Brook University Office of Equity and Access or visit stonybrook.edu/reportit to learn more.

For information on scheduled university breaks, please review the academic calendar.