If you need to take time off from your studies, but plan to return within 12 months, you may elect to take a leave of absence. Before taking a leave, consult your instructor and academic advisor to understand your options for completing the semester and any potential impact. Review the information below before taking action.
Note: Residential students must vacate your residence hall within 48 hours of submitting your leave form.
Complete the University Withdrawal/Leave Option Form. If you plan on attending another institution while on leave at Southern, you must submit a Transfer Credit Approval before registering for classes at another institution. If you do not return within 12 months, you will be withdrawn from the university. Graduate students must complete all degree requirements within a six-year time frame (or seven-years for doctoral students), including any periods of leave.
After the drop period has ended, if the leave form is submitted during the first 12 weeks of the semester (or within the withdrawal deadlines for shorter terms), you will be withdrawn from all in-progress courses. Withdrawn courses appear on the transcript with a 'W' grade, but do not impact your GPA. If the form is submitted after the withdrawal deadline, instructors will assign final grades for the courses.
Tuition Impact
You must take a leave by the refund deadline to receive a full or partial refund for tuition and fees.
Financial Aid Impact
A financial aid recalculation will be performed based on the number of days you attended in the semester. You are responsible for any remaining balance on your account due to changes in your financial aid.