Leaves of Absence

The vice president for student affairs and dean of students of the University grants
leaves of absence for:
• military service
• family leave
• medical disability
• financial hardship.

Leaves must be requested in writing and be accompanied by supporting documents.
Leaves of absence are normally granted for one semester and are not automatically
renewed. During such leaves, students are exempt from paying doctoral study or
continuous registration fees, but retain access to the library and its facilities.

Medical disability, military service, family and financial hardship leaves extend the time
limit for completion of degree requirements by the period for which the leave was granted.

In exceptional circumstances, permission for leaves of absence of up to one year for
full-time research or other activities directly related to the student’s academic program may
be approved. Research leaves are processed by the vice president for student affairs and
dean of students and granted by the provost and vice president for academic affairs based
upon recommendations from the student’s major advisor and dean of the school. During
such leaves, the student is exempt from paying the doctoral study or continuous registration
fees. Research leaves do not affect the time limit for completion of all degree requirements.

Involuntary Medical Leave of Absence
It is the policy of Claremont Graduate University that if any student, because of an apparent
medical or psychological condition, poses a threat to the physical well-being of him/herself or
any other member of the University or Claremont Colleges community, or a threat of serious
destruction of property, such student may be placed on an involuntary medical leave of absence.
This policy applies to medical and psychological problems only, and not to matters solely of a 
disciplinary nature. A copy of the procedures for implementation of this policy may be obtained
from the dean of students.

Leave of Absence Form

Please contact the Dean of Students to make your request for a leave of absence.