So I've missed 4 or 5 days of one of my classes at college, and I haven't turned in the term paper which was due last week. However, I've finished the term paper and need to get it turned in to my professor. I need a really good excuse for not having been in class for almost 2 weeks.

I'm thinking telling him that my mother died would be sufficient. But is this going too far?

Yes.

IMO it is. It's much too specific, and could possibly get you in hot water if your teacher inquires further into the matter. Whenever I was late on assignments, I used to just tell my instructors that I'd been having family problems. It's a good non-specific, but also indicates that they're private (yet serious) matters.

Hmm... missing class for two weeks removes many good excuses. Saying someone died or was in the hospital isn't that good, because it falls down with a simple phone call. It's flu season, maybe you were sick.

I've never botched two weeks before. A few days, yeah, but not two weeks. No ideas from me for something this large. :)

Yeah I would've gone for something much simpler if I had just missed a few days. I've decided the dead mom thing is a bit too risky, because while it's unlikely I'd be discovered, if I did I'd probably be in some real hot water.

The flu idea might be my best option.

Public drug freak-outs usually work for me.

S'ils on the money. Mum dying is too specific. Family issues is the way to go.

That could range from being abused to divorce etc...

Would I have gone to the doctor for the flue?

Just say up that you got the clap.

s'Il's idea is sound Hyfe.

I would go with the discreet yet serious family problems bit, and if you really want to go the extra mile, have an emotional breakdown in front of your professor (preferably when it's just you and him). Say it's because of your problems at home, and working full time, if you have a job. ;)