Absences: Excused and Leaves

Excused Absences

Excused absences are time away from course meetings during the term or semester in which the student is currently enrolled. Based on the number of absences during the term, the students shall work with the faculty member(s) and the Title IX coordinator or designee to discuss a reasonable timeline for expected course completion, taking into account the student's time away from the course, which may result in an "incompletes."

In order to initiate a leave of absence, the student shall contact the Title IX coordinator or designee at least 30 calendar days prior to the initiation of leave, or as soon as practicable. The coordinator will assist the student in completing any necessary paperwork. 

Leave of Absence Specifications

A leave of absence is available to parenting students and students due to pregnancy or related conditions, adoption, or placement of a child. A leave of absence is considered not enrolling for one or more semesters, with plans to return within two academic years. A leave of absence allows for a break in continuous enrollment and, if in good standing, a return to the degree program at a later date without a re-entry process, provided the break is within the two-year academic timeframe.

Students must not be required to take a leave of absence; it is a voluntary decision. In addition, colleges and universities shall not limit a student's choice in studies or academic programs on the basis of pregnancy or parenting status. Students may not know the exact dates of when they will need leave, or for how long, until they have actually given birth. No notice, or very short notice, is acceptable when there are extenuating circumstances. 

To the extent possible, Minnesota State will take reasonable steps to ensure that students who take a leave of absence return to the same position of academic progress they held when they took leave, including access to the same or an equivalent course catalog in place at the time the leave began. Students may be required to take a new course due to factors outside of the control of the college or university.

Leave of Absence Request Form  

Student Scholarships, Fellowships, or State-Sponsored Funding

Continuation of students' scholarships, fellowships, or similar Minnesota State-sponsored funding during the leave term will depend on students' registration status and the funding program's policies regarding registration status. To the extent possible, students will not be negatively impacted by or forfeit their future eligibility for their scholarship, fellowship, or similar college or university-support funding by exercising their rights under this procedure.

The Title IX coordinator or designee will advocate for students with respect to financial aid agencies and external scholarship providers in the event that a leave of absence places eligibility into question.