<p>We have sent computers into for servicing–both were PCs but we always got proof that we had mailed it in. I’m quite sure apple products are the same way. Most people also back things up BEFORE they send it out for servicing (if it is possible to back up–sometimes that’s why they had to send it in–because they can’t even turn on the machine).</p>
<p>I would be shocked if there is no paper trail showing that the machine was sent in for servicing, but would feel it is the faculty member’s responsibility to ask the student for proof. If the student still meets the deadline, no big issue. If the student’s work will affect others, you may want to ask the student for his projected timeline when he’ll meet benchmarks and complete the project, cc’ing the faculty member.</p>