VCOM College Catalog and Student Handbook

Requesting a Leave of Absence A student requesting an LOA must apply as far in advance as is reasonable under the circumstances for an LOA unless unforeseen circumstances prevent the student from doing so. The student must request the LOA, in writing, from the Campus Dean for approval. Because every student’s situation is different, the Campus Dean evaluates each application on a case-by-case basis. The student's academic status is subject to review at the time of the leave and upon the student's return. The Campus Dean has the sole authority to grant or deny the LOA. • A short (2-4 page) explanation of why the LOA is being requested, goals for the leave, and the anticipated requested date of return to the academic program. • Required additional documentation: o Administrative Leave of Absence As an Administrative Leave of Absence is a school-mandated leave issued by the Campus Dean; therefore, students being placed on an Administrative Leave of Absence do not need to request the LOA from the Campus Dean. o Academic Leave of Absence Students requesting an Academic Leave of Absence from the Campus Dean must provide the appropriate documentation that provides evidence of participation/enrollment in research, an externship, or a degree-granting program outside of VCOM. o Medical Leave of Absence Students requesting a Medical Leave of Absence from the Campus Dean must provide the appropriate medical documentation, including but not limited to, a letter from the treating physician clearly stating the nature of the medical condition and reason(s) it requires a leave of absence. The Campus Dean may require additional information from the treating physician to determine the appropriate timeframe for return. The Campus Dean reserves the right to require a second opinion to confirm that a medical condition exists that requires a Medical Leave of Absence, or if the Campus Dean believes a second opinion is warranted for any other reason. o Military Leave of Absence Students requesting a Military Leave of Absence from the Campus Dean must provide the appropriate documentation that provides evidence of military service requirements for the request. The Campus Dean may require additional information prior to or throughout the leave. o Personal Leave of Absence Students requesting a Personal Leave of Absence from the Campus Dean must provide the appropriate documentation that describes the need for an LOA and provides evidence of the reason for the request. The Campus Dean may require additional information prior to or throughout the leave. Students must meet with the Campus Dean and Associate Dean for Student Affairs to discuss the reasons for requesting leave, goals for the leave, and the impact the leave may have on progress towards the degree. The Campus Dean may approve the leave with conditions or deny the leave. If the Campus Dean decides that a leave of absence is appropriate, the decision and the conditions for re-enrollment and resumption of studies will be communicated in writing by the Campus Dean to the student. Conditions may include such things as the successful Students requesting an LOA must submit a written request to the Campus Dean. The request must include:

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