If you do plan not to enroll in classes for at least one semester or more and plan to return to the University within two academic years, you may qualify for a Leave of Absence (LOA). A formal LOA allows you to break your continuous enrollment and return to your degree program at a later date. This blog post will discuss students' eligibility for taking a LOA, the process for requesting a LOA, and returning from a LOA.
Students navigate a wide array of circumstances which may impact their enrollment. If you need to take a break for your studies and do plan not to enroll in classes for at least one semester or more and plan to return to the University within two academic years, you may qualify for a Leave of Absence (LOA). A formal LOA allows you to break your continuous enrollment and return to your degree program at a later date. This provides several benefits to you, such as being able to maintain your active student status, and continuing with the same degree program requirements when you return.
We encourage you to connect with your college advisor if you are considering taking a LOA or if you would like more support with this process.
You are not eligible to take a LOA if:
- It is your first term at the University.*
- You are currently on academic suspension.
- You do not intend to return to the University (see the University's Withdraw page).
- You are admitted or plan to enroll in a degree program at another institution.
- You are participating in a Study Abroad or National Student Exchange program.
*You may not take a leave of absence during your first term at the University. Instead, you may need to change your term of admission by contacting the Office of Admissions. If you are currently taking classes in your first term of enrollment and extenuating circumstances come up, contact your advisor.
When to apply
Apply for a LOA at least one term before your leave would start. You may only request a LOA for the current term if you make the request no later than the tenth day of the term.
Undergraduate steps to apply for a LOA*
- Discuss your options with your college advisor. They can help you decide whether or not a LOA is appropriate.
- Fill out the Undergraduate Leave of Absence form and send the completed form to csestudent@umn.edu.
- Connect with One Stop to discuss any financial implications of changes to your enrollment.
- Cancel your enrollment by manually dropping your classes in MyU, whether for current or future terms. This prevents you from receiving “F” grades. Print out a confirmation of the cancellation to keep for your records.
- Complete exit counseling if you received financial aid and will not be attending at least half-time. A hold will be placed on your student account until you complete exit counseling.
- Pay any remaining charges on your student account.
- Return any materials on loan from the University such as library books, lab equipment, keys, parking permits, keycards, and/or any other University materials.
- Update your contact information in MyU to keep your address and phone number up-to-date with the University. Official communications will continue to be sent to your University of Minnesota email account.
- Contact your college advisor to inform them of your intention to return to the University. They are here to support you and to ensure a smooth transition as you return to your studies.
- If you are an international student, contact International Student and Scholars Services (ISSS) to discuss any additional steps that may be required.
- Submit a Return to the University form at least one month prior to the start of the term you plan to enroll in.
- If you have any new coursework since you last attended the U of M, submit the official transcripts to the Office of Admissions.
- Complete any required advising appointments as communicated by CSE Student Services.
