At some point in your career at Utah Valley University, you may need to take some time away from your studies — and that is okay! Many students find that taking a Leave of Absence can be helpful and allow them to focus their energy and time on recovery, self-care, self-improvement, or take care of things that need prioritizing.
You can leave for as long as you need. However, after 7 semesters of being gone, you will need to reapply to university before you can register for classes again.
There are many reasons why students may take a Leave of Absence. These are some of the most common reasons, but this is not a complete list. You can take a break from UVU for any reason.
Finances
Mental Health
Religious Mission
Employment
Military Service
New Family Addition
Physical Health
Transferring
We’ll help you address any challenges you’re facing and create a personalized plan to ensure a smooth return to your studies. Our Leave of Absence Team Member provides personalized resources and guidance based on your reason for taking a leave.
Dropping a Class
Taking a Leave of Absence does not drop or withdraw your classes for you. You will need to withdraw through the add/drop system in myUVU according to the deadlines found on the Schedule website.
Financial Aid
The Leave of Absence form will notify the Financial Aid office if you have any UVU scholarships that need to be deferred while you are on leave. Not all scholarships are eligible for deferment. Taking a leave of absence may impact your scholarship eligibility. You can use the leave of absence form to request deferment of any current scholarships. Taking leave may also impact any current or past student loans. Please reach out to the Financial Aid office to discuss any financial impacts from taking a leave of absence.
International Students
If you are an international student, taking a Leave of Absence could possibly affect your visa. Before you leave, please contact International Student Services at [email protected].
Military-Affiliated Benefits
If you are a recipient of a Veterans Affairs education benefit, taking a Leave of Absence could possibly affect your benefit eligibility. Before you leave, please contact the Military-Affiliated Student Hub at [email protected].
If you decide to return earlier than expected, no worries! Contact the Leave of Absence coordinator, and we will help you smoothly transition back.
If you decide to take a longer leave than expected, all you need to do is submit the Leave of Absence form again with your new anticipated date of return.
