Leave of Absence

If, for acceptable reasons, Orange Campus Graduate students find it necessary to interrupt progress toward their degrees for more than one semester, a leave of absence may be granted (Interterm and Summer Sessions do not constitute a semester).

A leave of absence permits graduate students to retain the right to elect requirements in effect at time of the leave, or to adopt those in effect at time of re-enrollment. Leaves are granted for one year, with a possible renewal of one additional year - for a maximum of two years. Failure to return by the specified time is considered withrawal from Chapman University.

A leave of absence does not supercede the policy that all requirements for a degree must be completed within a seven-year period.

How to apply for Leave of Absence:

• A student must be in good academic standing to apply
• Request a Leave of Absence by completing a Graduate Petition form
• The petition must clearly and completely state the reasons for the leave
• Submit the petition for approval to the program director and dean of the school
• If interrupting enrollment before the end of the term, also follow Steps to Withdraw
• Retroactive leaves are not approved

How to re-enroll after a Leave of Absence:

• After breaking enrollment for more than one semester, returning students are required to apply for re-admission through the Office of Admission
• Applicants for re-admission will be held to the admission requirements in effect at the time of their return
• Students returning from an absence of four years or more are required to submit a new set of official transcripts and current admission examination scores with their application for re-admission

Coursework taken during leave:

• Provide transcripts to the Registrar's Office prior to re-enrollment
• Non-satisfactory performance may nullify re-enrollment