Leave of Absence (LOA)
Lindenwood University allows students to take a Leave Of Absence for one academic semester. The Leave of Absence involves a notification process that requires submission of the Leave of Absence form to the SASS office along with attached supporting documentation from qualified/appropriate sources. Individuals in a Leave of Absence status do not intend to make academic progress toward the completion of their degree. Students must be enrolled at least half-time for one term (6 credit hours for undergraduate and 3 credit hours for graduate) and complete at least one term successfully prior to applying for a Leave of Absence. Students must be in good academic standing and making satisfactory academic progress within the parameters set in the university catalog. Taking a leave of absence means you agree not to take classes at any other higher education institution during your leave. Reasons for a leave of absence include (but are not limited to):
• Medical issues (physical or mental)
• Family circumstances such as death, pregnancy or parental leave
• Circumstances regarding someone you aren’t related to but are close to
• Financial concerns
• Military service
A leave of absence could have implications to your financial aid up to and including going into repayment if you have student loans. Students are encouraged to speak with their financial aid counselor to discuss Title IV implications as a result of an LOA.
When returning from a Leave of Absence, students can begin the reentry process with their advisor. Students returning after the leave of absence period has expired must be readmitted to the university by submitting a new application to the Office of University Admissions. Upon review of the new application, the admissions office will update the student’s profile in preparation for their return to Lindenwood. Students not enrolled for one calendar year and eligible to return to Lindenwood will do so under the current catalog of re-entry and will be directed to contact their advisors to enroll once the readmit process has been approved.