Leave of Absence

Within the five‑year limit, a student in good academic standing may request one leave of absence from graduate study for a definite, stated period of time (up to one year) during which the student does not plan to make academic progress. To be eligible for a leave of absence, a student must not have received an extension of the time limit for the degree and must not have temporary grades of IN or AB on courses taken. A leave of absence between degrees is not allowed.

In advance of the leave period, the student must complete and submit a Request for Leave of Absence Form to The Graduate School. This form requires approval by the academic program. If The Graduate School approves the leave of absence, the time of that leave will not count against the total time allowed for the degree. Readmission to The Graduate School after an approved leave of absence is generally a formality. Ordinarily, a leave of absence may not be renewed.

Note: If you are considering a one semester only LOA, it is not necessary to request a formal LOA unless you are endanger of running out of time. You have the option of simply not registering for a fall or spring semester but MUST fill out a readmission form in order to enroll for the semester you wish to continue taking classes.