Medical Leave of Absence
Pratt Institute students who feel they need to take a temporary leave from their studies due to a physical or mental health concern, may apply for a Medical Leave of Absence (MLOA).
An MLOA allows a student to take time away from their academic work for one or more semesters for medical or mental health reasons. In these instances, time away for treatment and recovery can restore a student’s functioning to a level that will enable them to return to Pratt.
Eligibility:
- Students should be in good academic standing, which is defined as a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 for undergraduates and 3.0 for graduate students, and be in good financial standing. Students must have completed at least one semester at Pratt.
- Health Insurance: If a student is covered by Pratt’s Student Health Insurance then they may continue coverage during the MLOA for up to 2 consecutive semesters. Email studentadvocate@pratt.edu for more information.
- International Students: International Students holding visas must consult with the International Affairs office before filing for a MLOA to make sure they meet the immigration regulatory requirements. Email OIA@pratt.edu for more information.
- Access to Campus and Student Services: Access to campus facilities and services is limited when a student is on a MLOA. Further restrictions may be applied as a result of the circumstances associated with the MLOA. The student would be notified in writing by the Vice President for Student Affairs (or designee) if any further restrictions apply.
- On-Campus Housing: Students may not remain in on-campus housing. Students intending on returning to housing must contact the Office of Residence Life after obtaining clearance to return.
Process for Requesting a Leave of Absence
If you are a student who is considering a leave of absence for medical reasons, please email a Student Advocate at studentadvocate@pratt.edu or call 718-399-4546 for assistance.
Once you have decided to take a MLOA you should complete a Leave of Absence Form available from the Registrar online here:
Deadlines for Submitting a LOA Request
Students must have completed an evaluation for a MLOA no later than the final day of classes as listed on the on-line academic calendar in order for a MLOA to be processed for that semester.
Returning from a Leave of Absence
When a student feels ready to resume studies at Pratt, they must present verification that their medical condition has resolved or been sufficiently treated so that it will no longer adversely affect their safety and functioning or that of the larger Pratt community.
If you are returning from a leave of absence, students should email a Student Advocate at studentadvocate@pratt.edu or call 718-399-4546 to get further instructions on returning to Pratt. Requests to return must be submitted in writing by the following dates:
Fall semester return: July 1
Spring semester return: December 1
Summer semester return: April 1
Students must provide documentation from a qualified medical or mental health provider who can attest to the student’s readiness to return. Documentation from International providers must be translated into English, and the original documentation should be included.*
Students will also need to meet with a Student Advocate, in-person, remotely, or by phone, to discuss their return to Pratt. Meetings with a Student Advocate may be scheduled through Starfish, see link.
Following this evaluation, the Student Advocate will make a recommendation, in consultation with Health and/or Counseling staff, as to the student’s readiness to return. If restrictions or conditions were applied upon the student’s exit, the Student Advocate will forward their recommendations to the Vice President for Student Affairs who then renders a decision regarding the student’s return.
Please view the link for Medical Leave of Absence under the Registrar for additional information regarding this policy.
https://www.pratt.edu/about/offices/office-of-the-registrar/registrar-forms/
*International Students
For more information on MLOA for International students got to the Office of International Affairs
Financial Concerns
Pratt offers Tuition Refund Insurance for students withdrawing from classes after refund deadlines have passed. The Tuition Refund Insurance provides coverage through a plan designed to refund 75% of your semester tuition and on-campus room and board when a student withdraws at any time during a semester for covered medical reasons. https://www.pratt.edu/about/offices/student-financial-services/tuition-refund-insurance/]
Please contact Student Financial Services for more information at 718.636.3599 or sfs@pratt.edu.
Students withdrawing for non-medical reasons, that are sudden and/or severe, may submit a financial appeal request. Email studentadvocate@pratt.edu for more information.
Students who withdraw and have received financial aid must contact the Financial Aid office. Some aid may need to be returned. Any balance that results from a reduction in aid is the student’s responsibility.