Voluntary Leave of Absence

Ordinarily, the College expects full-time students to complete the bachelor's degree in four academic years. At times, however, family, medical, personal, or financial emergencies arise that may interrupt one's studies. Students who must leave the College for a short time but intend to return to their studies may request a Voluntary Leave of Absence for up to four consecutive semesters. Students who do not return within two years will be re-classified as Withdrawn from the College; withdrawal policies and procedures will then apply. The Voluntary Leave of Absence process is initiated with the Dean of Students. Students receiving financial aid are advised to consult the Office of Student Financial Aid Services before requesting a Voluntary Leave of Absence in order to verify how their financial aid package might be affected. Please note that the two years in LOA status will count toward the six-year window of catalogs under which students may qualify to graduate. Please see Degrees and Graduation Application for more information.