TAMIU Student Handbook 2019-2020

Page 67 of 86 Leave of Absence Policy for Graduate Students You must be in good standing (i.e., financial obligations met, no disciplinary action, good academic standing) Requests for Leave of Absence must be submitted to the Dean of Graduate School before the second week of the first semester of absence The maximum Leave of Absence is two semesters. Any Leave of Absence beyond two semesters must be adequately justified and approved by the Dean of the Graduate School The maximum number of Leave of Absence requests is two You must inform the Dean of the Graduate School when you return from your Leave of Absence Unapproved Leaves of Absence may result in the student being required to re-apply to their program. Process for Obtaining a LOA Student should do the following: 1. Review the rule and complete the Leave of Absence Request form promptly upon first knowledge that a LOA is needed. Form can be downloaded at http://www.tamiu.edu/gradschool/downloads.shtml . 2. Schedule appointment with department chair and college/school Dean for review and approval: College/school approval is required for an absence of two or more consecutive semesters to review the LOA application and the following issues: a. Impact on progress toward degree. b. Catalog year and status after LOA. c. Academic standing issues. d. Transfer policies, incomplete grades, agency requirements (e.g., state licensing/certification) and other academic issues, if applicable. e. Possible change of majors to a major within same college or in another college. Process for completing major change prior to LOA is reviewed. 3. Contact other offices, if applicable: a. Office of International Engagement – International students must receive mandatory advisement, including signature, from the Office of International Engagement to discuss the impact of the LOA to their immigration status. An international student on approved LOA must contact the Office of International Engagement prior to their return to TAMIU to clear visa status and request appropriate immigration documents. b. Office of Financial Aid – Students who have received financial aid should request information about loan counseling, program rules that require continuous enrollment, and satisfactory progress. Students who have