Doctoral Statuses

Leave of Absence

Leaves of absence for students in Scholastic Residence (typically years 1-4) are granted for a maximum of one calendar year and cannot be extended. Fellowships will be deferred for the leave period (one-year maximum) and will be reassigned in the event the student does not return to full-time residence at the conclusion of the leave. Students who wish to return after their one-year leave has expired must reapply for admission and compete for funding in the regular in-residence aid competition in the year prior to return. To request a leave, students should complete a Leave of Absence form, obtain the signature of the department chair, and return the form to Walker 111.

A student in Advanced Residence (typically years 5-12) may apply for a leave of absence only if temporarily incapacitated by major illness or injury. For details, please see the Student Manual of University Policies and Regulations.

A female student in either Scholastic (typically years 1-4) or Advanced Residence (typically years 5-12) who becomes pregnant may request a one-quarter leave of absence for childbirth. For details, please see the Student Manual of University Policies and Regulations. Students may also wish to review the University's Graduate Student Parents Policy (PDF).

Students in Extended Residence (years 13+) are not eligible for leaves of absence. 

Students requesting leave who have at any time borrowed money from any of the University's Cash Loan programs or from government-sponsored loan programs (Perkins, Stafford, SLS) are required under federal regulations to complete an exit interview with the Student Loan Administration. Failure to appear for an exit interview may result in a restriction and possible problems with the loans.

International students who are considering a leave of absence should discuss their plans with the Office of International Affairs before applying for a leave.