Leave of Absence and Reinstatement from Leave of Absence

University of Minnesota policy states that “graduate students are expected to maintain active status through continuous registration.” If that is not possible, one option for students is to request a Leave of Absence (and a Reinstatement from Leave of Absence), per the University’s policy, Leave of Absence and Reinstatement from a Leave: Graduate Students.

The Humphrey School allows a Leave of Absence for circumstances that may include, but are not restricted to, the following:

  • Significant or unexpected illness of self or close family member
  • Death in the family
  • Financial challenges
  • Work or personal demands

Procedure

Leave of Absence

  • The student must contact their Humphrey School Career and Student Success adviser.
  • If the Career and Student Success adviser determines that circumstances warrant a Leave of Absence, the student submits the “Leave of Absence Request” form to the Career and Student Success adviser. 
  • Students are responsible for understanding the possible consequences of the decision to take a Leave of Absence as documented on page 2 of the Leave of Absence Request form.
  • Approval is required from faculty adviser, Director of Graduate Studies, and Career and Student Success adviser.
  • If approved, the student will be notified and a copy of the form will be kept in the student’s file. A hold will be placed on the student’s record and will be lifted upon reinstatement from Leave of Absence.
  • To appeal a decision about Leave of Absence, students should contact the Humphrey School Associate Dean. Final appeal decisions will be made by the Humphrey School Dean.

Reinstatement from Leave of Absence

  • The student must contact their Humphrey School Career and Student Success adviser.
  • If the Career and Student Success adviser determines that circumstances warrant a return from Leave of Absence, the student submits the “Leave of Absence Reinstatement Request” form to the Career and Student Success adviser.
  • Approval is required from faculty adviser, Director of Graduate Studies, and Career and Student Success adviser.
  • If approved, the student will be notified and a copy of the form will be kept in the student’s file.
  • To appeal a decision about reinstatement from Leave of Absence, students should contact the Humphrey School Associate Dean. Final appeal decisions will be made by the Humphrey School Dean.

Approved April 2013