A leave of absence (LOA) is intended to provide a short-term leave, not to exceed two calendar years, for students who plan to return to Puget Sound.

An undergraduate student who has completed at least one full term at Puget Sound, and has not been suspended or dismissed for academic or conduct reasons, may apply for a LOA. A student may be granted a leave either during a term or any time before classes commence in the semester following the last term attended.

A student who obtains a leave of absence (LOA) during the first eight weeks of the term will be eligible for a tuition adjustment in accordance with the published university tuition adjustment schedule. Additionally, financial aid awards made to students who withdraw from courses are subject to reevaluation based on changes to tuition, fees, particular award requirements, and possible federal aid refund requirements. Student Financial Services will contact each withdrawing student to summarize the financial impact of the withdrawal. Any balance remaining on the account is expected to be paid within 30 days of the withdrawal. Any other special payment arrangements for the outstanding balance must be coordinated with Student Financial Services at the time of withdrawal.

Students should be advised that scholarship awards or financial aid will not necessarily carry over, nor will places with university housing necessarily be held. Students on leave are responsible for all arrangements with offices serving them in these matters.

In addition to any other conditions or responsibilities as set forth in the application for leave or notice of approval, the student will be expected to meet all regular university deadlines with respect to registration, housing reservations, financial aid application, and similar matters.

Students planning to return from a Leave of Absence are responsible for giving at least one month’s notice of intent to re-enroll to the Office of Academic Advising. This allows time for Academic Advising to coordinate other steps involved in returning, including requesting a registration appointment time from the Office of the Registrar.