Academic Services
Leave of Absence
University of California policy requires continuous registration of graduate students until all degree requirements are completed. Graduate Council allows graduate students dealing with extraordinary circumstances to petition for a leave of absence under conditions outlined below. To be eligible for a leave, students must have registered for and completed at least one quarter and be in good academic standing.
A leave of absence guarantees a student's place in their degree program upon return from their approved leave. While on an official leave, students have limited access to some University resources as outlined below. Students must register if making extensive use of University resources or faculty time.
* A central fellow, wishing to request a change in the schedule of the fellowship, must complete the supplemental leave of absence form, 'Request for Change in Fellowship Schedule' in conjunction with the Leave of Absence petition for review by the Graduate Dean. The request must include the specific change being asked for along with a written statement of support by the Department Faculty Graduate Advisor addressing the request.
PDF of Supplemental LOA Request — Central Fellows
Types of Leave of Absence:
- Medical/Health Difficulties
- Pregnancy/Parenting Needs
- Family Emergency Leave
- Military Leave
- Filing Quarter Leave
A Leave of Absence will not be granted for the following reasons:
- Financial hardship and the desire to not pay fees
- Desire to take "time off" from the pressure of studies
- The necessity to focus primary energies on examination preparation or thesis/dissertation completion
- Exigencies resulting from outside employment
- Desire to protect visa status
All LOA applicants should be aware of: Student Restrictions While on Leave