Douglas Olsen
A Leave of Absence (LOA) is a temporary separation from a university, during which a student is not enrolled in any courses and is not considered a bona fide student. While the circumstances leading to a leave of absence can vary, universities typically outline strict policies and procedures that must be followed when a student intends to take a break from their studies. This paragraph will explore whether a university can force a student to take a leave of absence and examine the implications of such a decision.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A "Leave of Absence" (LOA) refers to a temporary separation from the university during which students are not enrolled in any courses, are not considered bona fide students, and are restricted from entering the campus. |
| Applicability | Undergraduate, graduate, and TDSOL students |
| Application Process | Students must apply for LOA using a form and submit supporting documents. |
| Supporting Documents | Yellow slip issued by HSO (for medical/health reasons), email endorsement from Counseling and Psychological Services (for mental health reasons), LOA form, valid ID of parents/guardian, clearance from the Office of Admissions and Scholarships (for scholars). |
| Duration | LOA can be approved for one semester at a time; students can apply for multiple semesters but not more than three LOAs in an entire graduate career. |
| Student Status | Students on LOA are not considered enrolled and are restricted from entering the campus except for occasional visits to specific offices. They are prohibited from enrolling in or studying at another educational institution. |
| Course Credits | Any courses taken at another institution during the LOA will not be credited toward their program at the university. |
| Return Process | Students must coordinate with relevant offices, such as Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Discipline Formation Office, and Finance and Accounting Office, to ensure a smooth return to their studies. |
| Refund Policy | The university's refund policy should be consulted to understand the implications of an LOA on tuition fees. |
| Visa Implications | LOA may have implications for student visas, and students may need to apply for a new visa before returning to their studies. |
What You'll Learn
LOA requirements
A "Leave of Absence" (LOA) is a temporary separation from a university, during which students are not enrolled in any courses and are not considered bona fide students. Students on LOA are prohibited from enrolling in or studying at another educational institution. Undergraduate, graduate, and TDSOL students are generally expected to maintain continuous enrolment until the completion of their program. Any break in this enrolment requires filing for an LOA, which, once approved, serves as official permission from the university to pause studies.
The requirements for an LOA are as follows:
- Students must apply for an LOA, providing the necessary documents. These include a yellow slip issued by HSO for medical/health reasons, email endorsement from Counselling and Psychological Services for mental health reasons, the LOA form, and a valid ID of the parents/guardian.
- Supporting documents may also be required, such as clearance from the Office of Admissions and Scholarships.
- Students must ensure all necessary forms and documents are submitted, as incomplete applications will not be processed.
- Students must also inform the university in writing if they are recipients of scholarship grants.
- Students must specify the duration of their LOA. The LOA petition will be approved for only one semester at a time, and students will not be granted more than three LOAs in their graduate career.
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LOA approval process
A "Leave of Absence" (LOA) is a temporary separation from a university, during which a student is not enrolled in any courses and is not considered a bona fide student. Students on LOA are prohibited from enrolling in or studying at another educational institution.
The LOA approval process varies across universities, but here is a general overview based on the sources provided:
- Application Submission: Students must submit their LOA application along with the required documents. This typically includes medical/health documentation, parental consent (for undergraduates below 18), and supporting documents. The application fee must be paid to be considered for LOA.
- Evaluation: The university evaluates the application and determines if it is complete. An incomplete application will not be processed.
- Notification: Once the application is deemed complete, the university will notify the student via email of the approval or denial of the LOA within a specified timeframe (e.g., within 4 working days upon submission).
- Approval and Conditions: If approved, the student is temporarily paused from their studies and is not required to maintain continuous enrollment. The LOA may be approved for a specific duration (e.g., one semester at a time) and there may be a limit to the number of LOAs granted during a student's academic career.
- Return from LOA: Students on LOA are expected to coordinate with relevant university offices upon their return to ensure they have settled any pending matters. They may also need to submit a reinstatement request and meet certain requirements, such as providing proof of meningitis vaccination.
It is important to note that the specific LOA approval process, requirements, and conditions may vary depending on the university and the student's individual circumstances. Students should refer to their university's policies and guidelines for detailed information regarding the LOA process.
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LOA duration
The duration of a Leave of Absence (LOA) can vary depending on the university and the student's circumstances. Some universities, like the University of Houston, approve LOA petitions for one semester at a time. If a student plans to be away for longer, they must petition for another LOA before the beginning of the following semester. Students at the University of Houston are limited to a total of 3 LOAs throughout their graduate career.
On the other hand, De La Salle University does not specify a limit on the number of terms a student can apply for an LOA. They do, however, mention that students can be on LOA for a term or more.
For international students on an F-1 visa in the US, the duration of the LOA is important. If a student is outside of the US for more than 5 months, they may need to apply for a new visa and will not qualify for off-campus employment through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) until they complete three quarters of enrollment.
At the University of Cape Town, an LOA allows students to suspend their studies for an entire semester or year.
It's important to note that the LOA duration and policies may differ from university to university, and students should refer to their specific university's guidelines to understand the applicable rules and procedures.
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Impact on student visa
A Leave of Absence (LOA) is a temporary separation from a university, during which a student is not enrolled in any courses and is not considered a bona fide student. They are restricted from entering the campus, except for the occasional visit to specific offices.
International students on an LOA will need to consider the impact on their student visa. The visa implications will vary depending on the country and the specific visa requirements. For example, in the US, students on an F-1 visa are required to be enrolled full-time to maintain their visa status. Therefore, taking an LOA may affect their visa validity. In the UK, on the other hand, Tier 4 visas allow for a temporary withdrawal, which means that students can take an LOA without impacting their visa, as long as they return to their studies before the visa expires.
It is important for international students to carefully review the terms of their student visa and consult with their university's international student office or a qualified advisor to understand the specific implications of taking an LOA on their visa status. Each country's visa regulations are different, and failing to comply with the requirements can result in serious consequences, including visa cancellation or denial of re-entry.
Additionally, students should be aware that taking an LOA may impact their ability to work in the country, as some visas have specific requirements regarding part-time or full-time enrolment. Students should also keep in mind that they may need to provide updated documentation, such as proof of financial support, when returning from an LOA to maintain their visa status.
Overall, while taking an LOA can provide a necessary break from studies, international students must carefully consider the potential impact on their student visa status and seek appropriate advice to ensure they remain compliant with the visa regulations in their host country.
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Returning from LOA
Returning from a leave of absence (LOA) can be daunting, but it's important not to panic. Remember that there are people at your university whose job it is to support you.
Before Returning from LOA
If you took a medical leave of absence, you will likely need to obtain a certificate from your university's health centre to confirm that you are well enough to resume your studies. This may involve providing medical evidence and any relevant medical reports from doctors or specialists who cared for you during your LOA. If you took a leave of absence due to mental ill health and you have concerns about returning, consider discussing this with your university's mental health coordinator.
Registration and Enrolment
Before you can register, you must complete any necessary steps required by your university's health centre. You will then be able to register and enrol for your courses. If you are an international student, it is important to discuss your return with a student advisor as your immigration status may be affected by any change in circumstances.
Finances
It is important to keep your funding agency informed about your situation so that they can advise you on what will happen with your funding. If you took a leave of absence due to financial difficulties, ensure that you are in a position to return financially. If you are still experiencing financial problems, consider your options carefully before deciding to extend your leave of absence.
Academic Support
Your academic school can provide useful information about your return to studies, including details about Welcome Week, enrolment, module/elective choice, and anything else relevant. Careers and Employability is another source of unbiased information, where staff can help you explore options such as a change in course or institution, as well as providing careers advice.
Social Support
Counselling and Mental Health services provide a free, confidential service to all students. If you are feeling anxious about returning to university or any other aspect of your life, the counselling service may be able to help.
Administrative Support
Upon return from LOA, you will need to coordinate with various offices to check if there are any outstanding matters that need to be settled before applying for returnee enrolment. These offices may include Counselling and Psychological Services, the Student Discipline Formation Office, and the Finance and Accounting Office.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a university can force a student to take a LOA in certain situations. For example, if a student is facing disciplinary action or is unable to meet the minimum academic requirements, the university may mandate a leave of absence.
There are several reasons a university might require a student to take a leave of absence. These can include:
- Disciplinary issues: If a student has violated university rules and poses a risk to the safety or educational environment.
- Academic performance: If a student fails to maintain the minimum academic standards, such as failing to register for courses or dropping below the required number of course units.
- Medical reasons: In some cases, a student's medical condition may necessitate a leave of absence, especially if it impacts their ability to continue their studies or poses a risk to others.
The process can vary depending on the university, but generally, it involves the following steps:
- Consultation: The university will typically consult with the student to discuss their situation and explore the option of a leave of absence.
- Administrative decision: The university's administration, often in collaboration with relevant departments and advisors, will make a decision based on the student's circumstances.
- Notification: The student will be informed of the university's decision and provided with information about the leave of absence, including any conditions or requirements that must be met.
- Appeal process: In some cases, students may have the right to appeal the decision and provide additional information or context.
