Withdrawal, Leave of Absence, and Reinstatement

University Policy

College of Engineering Graduate Policy

Engineering graduate students who wish to withdraw from the University or take a leave of absence must submit their requests in writing. Students should submit their request by emailing the form found on the Engineering website to the Graduate Programs office. International students must meet with an International Students & Scholars office advisor prior to any interruption of studies. Upon written request and for appropriate cause, a student will be allowed up to two terms of leave of absence. Leaves of absence beyond two terms will be granted only in such exceptional cases as substantiated illness, one-term maternity or paternity leave, or military service. Matriculating students cannot take a leave of absence in their first term of enrollment.

Lack of registration does not constitute an official leave of absence or withdrawal. Obtaining transfer approval to another university from the International Students & Scholars office does not withdraw a student from Boston University.

A request for a withdrawal or leave of absence is effective on the day it is received in the Graduate Programs office; charges are canceled in accordance with the University’s published refund schedule, based on the effective date of the student’s leave of absence or withdrawal. Mere absence from class does not reduce financial obligations or guarantee that final grades will not be recorded. Failure to file appropriate notice may jeopardize a student’s privilege to return.

Refunds are explained under “Withdrawals and Refunds” on the College of Engineering website.

The period of authorized leave of absence is counted as part of the time allowed for completion of degree requirements. Students may not complete any degree requirements in a term for which they have been granted a leave of absence. Graduate students must be registered for either a course or at least 2 units of research/thesis/dissertation in the term or summer session in which they complete degree requirements.

Master’s students must be registered every fall and spring term as a degree-seeking student. PhD students must be registered for fall, spring, and summer terms as a degree-seeking student. Failure to register or communicate with the Graduate Programs office will result in administrative withdrawal. Graduate students who are voluntarily absent for one or more terms without officially taking a leave of absence must contact the college at least eight weeks before the start of the term to inquire about reinstatement.

Students who have left the University for medical reasons are required to provide documentation from a physician stating that they are able to return. Contact the Student Health Services office for details on the medical review process.