* The instructor's policy: Some instructors are more lenient than others. Their syllabus will usually clearly outline their policy on late submissions and missed assignments. Some might offer a small deduction for lateness, while others might give no credit at all for late work or missed assignments. Some might offer a chance to make up the work, while others do not.
* The importance of the assignment: A small homework assignment will typically have less severe consequences than a major project or exam. A missed major assignment can significantly impact your final grade.
* The course's grading scheme: If the course heavily weights assignments, missing one will have a more significant impact on your overall grade than in a course where assignments are only a small portion of the final grade.
* Your overall academic standing: If you're already struggling academically, missing an assignment could push you further behind and potentially lead to failing the course.
* The reason for missing the assignment: While most instructors understand that unforeseen circumstances can occur, providing documentation (e.g., doctor's note) may help mitigate the consequences. However, this isn't guaranteed to change the outcome. Simply saying you forgot or didn't have time is unlikely to be persuasive.
Potential Consequences:
* Lower grade: This is the most common consequence. The impact on your grade will vary based on the factors mentioned above.
* Failing grade in the course: If the assignment is heavily weighted, or if you miss multiple assignments, it's possible to fail the course entirely.
* Impact on GPA: A lower grade in the course will negatively affect your overall GPA.
* Loss of participation points: Some courses include participation points, and missing an assignment might impact this component of your grade.
* Academic probation or suspension: In extreme cases, consistent failure to complete assignments could lead to academic probation or even suspension from the university.
* Missed learning opportunity: Beyond the grade, missing an assignment means missing out on the learning experience and knowledge gained from completing the assignment.
In short: Missing an assignment is always risky. The best approach is to avoid missing assignments by planning effectively, prioritizing tasks, and seeking help from the instructor or academic support services if you're struggling. Always check the syllabus for the instructor's specific policies on late submissions and missed assignments.