MIT BULLETIN Chapter 5: Academic Procedures and Institute Regulations
Absence from any final examination is equivalent to a failing grade except on presentation of adequate evidence of sickness or other valid reason for the absence. The Office of the Dean for Student Life (for undergraduates ) or the Dean for Graduate Education (for graduate students) may permit a student whose term work has been satisfactory to take the next scheduled examination on the subject. The instructor may, if the evidence warrants, issue a final grade without requiring a postponed final examination.