How to Email Your Professor
Follow these tips to write effective messages.
Can't make office hours and need to schedule a meeting? Want clarification on a deadline, assignment, grade or reading requirement? Looking to respond to an email sent to you?
You'll likely have to send an email to a professor at some point. It can be hard to know where to start. We get that, and we're here to help.
Learning how to craft professional emails will help you connect with faculty, and it’s a skill you can take with you after you graduate.
Tip 1
Be Polite
It’s best to use a more formal greeting like "Dear Professor," along with their last name spelled correctly. Sign off with something like, "Thank you," "Best" or "Sincerely."
Tip 2
Be Clear
Use your NIU email address and include your purpose, such as, "Question about lecture," in the subject line. Professors have lots of students, so tell them your name and the class you're attending. And remember to capitalize, punctuate and check your spelling. Stick to a formal tone and avoid emojis or informal abbreviations like FYI or ASAP.
Tip 3
Be Concise
Get straight to the point. If you can't explain why you're emailing in a sentence or two, consider making an appointment to meet in person. No demands or complaints, either. A concern about a grade or course policy is best handled in person.
Learn More
Read more in-depth advice for emailing your professor.
Huskie Spotlight
“Every professor I’ve had wants the best for us students. They're great at answering all the questions you may have, and they respond to their email quickly.”Jayce Pendergrass,
sport management major
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