Student Services
Leaves, Medical Leaves, Emergency Absences, and Withdrawals
Leave of Absence
A leave of absence may be available for students who are taking time off from the college for a variety of reasons. Leaves are usually processed before the start of a semester and can be granted for a maximum of two semesters. The final deadline to take a leave during the semester is the deadline to withdraw from a semester course. Tuition, room and board refunds will be calculated on the college’s refund schedule, found in the catalog and guidebook. Students who would like to request a leave of absence should begin by meeting with one of the Associate Deans of Student Services. For answers to frequently asked questions, please click here.
Medical Leave of Absence
A medical leave of absence may be available for students who have medical or psychological conditions that severely limit their ability to perform their academic work. Students who would like to request a medical leave of absence should begin by meeting with either an Associate Dean in Student Services or with a staff member in Health and Counseling. Medical leaves of absence are granted by one of the Student Services Associate Deans in consultation with Reed’s Health and Counseling Services, and are based on the written recommendation of a physician or mental health professional. Normally, medical leaves will last for at least one full semester but no more than two consecutive years (four semesters). In general, the Dean of Students may respond to clinically-based exceptions to this, either to reduce or increase time away, as appropriate. Tuition, room and board refunds will be calculated on the college’s refund schedule, found in the catalog and guidebook. For answers to frequently asked questions regarding medical leaves, please click here.
Emergency Absence
An emergency absence is not a leave from the college. Students are still considered enrolled. There are no refunds for time spent away from the college during an emergency absence. An emergency absence is appropriate for a brief absence from the college (no longer than 3 weeks). Students intending to take an emergency absence are encouraged to meet briefly with one of the Associate Deans of Student Services to discuss resources available to support the student. Students intending to take an emergency absence are not necessarily excused from any responsibilities for missed classes and coursework and should meet with their faculty as soon as possible to discuss the implications of taking an emergency absence in each class. Should a student need more time away from the college, they may apply for a leave, or a medical leave, whichever is more appropriate for their situation. For answers to frequently asked questions regarding emergency absences, please click here.
Withdrawal
Students who plan to depart from the college permanently may do so by withdrawing. Students may access the form to withdraw through the Student Services office by meeting with one of the Associate Deans of Student Services. Students who have withdrawn and desire to be readmitted must apply for readmission through the Registrar’s Office.