Health Leave of Absence
Office of the Dean
350 Caldwell Hall
607-255-7374
E-mail
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Overview
Health leaves are granted by the Graduate School upon the recommendation of University Health Services and place a student on "suspended status." That status means time spent on leave does not count toward time-to-degree limits and, unlike other types of leaves of absence, the original offer of financial support is not terminated if you are in good academic standing at the time you begin the medical leave. However, students are subject to a number of requirements when leaving active status for medical reasons:
Access to campus and housing
A student who takes a leave of absence relinquishes access to campus facilities and personnel that normally accompanies student status. In most cases, this means students may no longer have access to labs, libraries, and online resources that require a NetID. Students on medical leave also cannot remain in student housing.
Financial aid
A health leave of absence does not qualify you for loan deferment status. Many loan providers have policies for forbearance for medical reasons, however. Check with your lender for more information. Upon registration after a leave of absence, you are not guaranteed continuation of the identical financial aid package and/or work assignments offered at the time of original admission to the Graduate School. However, if funding was guaranteed, some form of support will continue.
Tuition and fees
In most cases, students on medical leaves of absence discontinue paying tuition. Depending on the time of departure, prorations are possible.
International student considerations
International students on health leaves of absence may remain in the United States legally while getting treatment. However, U.S. government regulations require that a student holding a non-immigrant visa who takes a health leave of absence must either leave the United States while not enrolled or receive approval for another visa status. If you're an international student, it is crucial that you discuss your plans with the International Students and Scholars Office and contact the Graduate School before leaving Cornell.
Renewal of status
Health leaves do not require annual renewal, however, readmission following a medical leave requires approval of University Health Services or another appropriate health care professional, the graduate field, and the Graduate School. In addition, you may have to complete some academic work toward your degree during the leave period before returning to enrolled status (e.g., completion of outstanding coursework, or preparation for the A Exam).
Regulations under the Code of Legislation
Information about non-registered status, leaves of absence and withdrawal can be found on pp. 22 and 23 of the Graduate School's Code of Legislation. Additional information on time-to-degree requirements may be found on p. 34.
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