Leave of Absence

A leave of absence (LOA) is a temporary interruption of a student’s program of study with a firm and stated intention of returning to the University once the life situation has been resolved. This allows a student to react proactively before an event impacts his or her academic performance in a negative manner. Students may request a leave of absence not to exceed two semesters, or 180 days. If the student does not report back to the University of Holy Cross before the end of the add/drop period of the indicated semester of return, the student will be considered to have withdrawn from the University as of the day the student began the LOA. Students returning from an LOA are required to file a readmission application that will be granted.

To be eligible for an LOA, students must be in good academic standing and have no holds that would prohibit registration. Students on leave may not use University facilities. While on LOA, students are not permitted to enroll in courses at another institution.

The deadline to apply for an LOA is the last day to register or drop courses in a semester. These dates are published on the Academic Calendar. LOA requests will not be considered after that date. The LOA request must be signed and dated by the student. Additionally, it must include the reason for the LOA and the date on which the student expects to return to the University. Approval must be given by the student’s advisor, department chair, and academic dean.

International students with an F-1/J-1 student visa must also receive approval from their International Student Advisor prior to being granted an LOA. Any student considering an LOA should consult with the Financial Aid Office to determine how his or her financial aid will be affected.