#  Leaves of Absence 

 



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Students wishing to interrupt their studies at any time before graduation must [petition the Administrative Board](https://adboard.fas.harvard.edu/petition-process) for a leave of absence. A leave of absence is a personal decision, and students who take a leave have different reasons for doing so. *The decision to take a leave of absence begins with a conversation with Chip, the Allston Burr Resident Dean.*

***In Good Standing***: Students whose previous academic and disciplinary record is satisfactory will normally be granted a "leave of absence." Contact Chip about your plans for a leave of absence. Students in good standing who have been granted a leave of absence may ordinarily return for any term by notifying Chip eight weeks in advance of term. Students going on voluntary leave must [cancel their housing contracts](https://collegehousing.fas.harvard.edu/cancel-return-housing) as soon as possible in order to avoid fees.

***On probation (academic or discplinary):*** Students who are not in good standing may be granted a "leave of absence - on probation." Students who have been granted a "leave of absence - on probation" must petition the Administrative Board for permission to register and must provide the Board with evidence that they are ready to return to the College.

**Students who decide to take a leave of absence are responsible for all dates and deadlines relevant to leaving/returning to campus.** The Registrar's office lists major dates and deadlines on its [website](https://registrar.fas.harvard.edu/enrollment#financial).

For more information on leaves of absence, refer to the [Undergraduate Student Handbook](https://handbook.college.harvard.edu/).