Academic Services
Leave of Absence
UCSB requires continued registration of all graduate students until the student completes all degree requirements. In extraordinary circumstances, however, students, admitted winter 1990 or thereafter, who have registered for and completed at least one quarter and are in good standing, may petition for a leave of absence subject to the conditions outlined below.
A leave of absence guarantees persons a place in their degree program upon return from their approved leave and allows limited access to some University resources during the period the student is approved for leave (outlined below). Students making extensive use of University resources or faculty time must register.
* A central fellow wishing to request a change in the schedule of the fellowship must submit a special LOA request in conjunction with the standard LOA to the Graduate Dean, Gale M. Morrison. The request should include the specific change being requested. A written statement of support by the Department Faculty Graduate Advisor addressing these issues is required on the form. PDF of Supplimental LOA Request — Central Fellows
Types of Leave of Absence:
- Medical/Health Difficulties
- Pregnancy/Parenting Needs
- Family Emergency Leave
- Military Leave
- Research 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
How to Apply for a Leave of Absence