Leave of Absence Process FAQ

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What is a Leave of Absence? Students who wish to discontinue their studies for one or more semesters (other than summer semester) must file for a Leave of Absence. Click Here to request a Leave of Absence online (required). Please contact the Retention and First Year Experience office 435.797.1132(TSC 314) if more information is required.

Benefits of taking a Leave of Absence? Students who take the initiative to complete a leave of absence form will have their scholarships placed on hold, maintain their financial aid status, and will continue to have their USU e-mail accounts.

Who can take a Leave of Absence? Leaves of Absence are generally granted and reviewed on a yearly basis for reasons relating to: illness or health, military service, employment, humanitarian or church service, family responsibilities, and financial obligations. The standard leave period is one year. Allowances will be made for military activation, church or humanitarian service, and for those having extenuating circumstances.

When can a student take a Leave of Absence? A student must apply for a leave of absence for a current semester no later than the last day of classes for that semester.

What things must I do before I leave the University?

  • Meet with your academic advisor to review the general education and major requirements you will need to fulfill upon your return.
  • If you have any incomplete grades or questions and concerns about your grades, meet with your instructors immediately.
  • Click Here to request a Leave of Absence online (required). Please contact the Retention and First Year Experience office 435.797.1132(TSC 314) if more information is required.

What is the process for returning from a leave?
Returning from your leave is easy. You will receive a letter and an e-mail welcoming you back to USU, just before priority registration of the semester that you are scheduled to return. Because you took the initiative to file a Leave of Absence, you will not need to apply for readmission; you are still a student at Utah State University. Simply call the Krystin Deschamps at 435-797-0977 to indicate that you are returning. Click Here for more information.

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If I am an international student, or a student with financial aid, whom do I need to talk to about taking a Leave of Absence?
Click Here to request a Leave of Absence online (required). Please contact the Retention and First Year Experience office 435.797.1132(TSC 314) if more information is required.

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Why must I have approval to take a Leave of Absence from Utah State University University?
Utah State University is committed to the academic success of its students. Students who take a leave may experience difficulties that may delay their progress toward graduation. The University wishes to ensure that students fully understand all the ramifications of taking a leave of absence. Additionally, Utah State University encourages each student to develop a plan for returning and completing his or her degree. The approval process is intended to accomplish these purposes.

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What process must I follow to place my scholarship on hold during my Leave of Absence?
Simply complete the Leave of Absence form, and submit it to the Financial Aid Office (TSC 106). A scholarship hold will be processed after a student has completed his or her last semester before leaving. Verification will be made after the semester to ensure that the student has fulfilled the requirements for the scholarship. Once that verification has been made, a confirmation of the scholarship hold will be sent to the student.

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Whom should I contact if I have additional questions?
Contact our Matriculation Advisor in the RFYE Office TSC 314, (435) 797-0977.

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GO AGGIES! (but then please come back...)