A leave of absence is available to students based on a medical or psychological need. If a student is not eligible for a leave of absence, there are additional options for a student who does not wish to attend as a full-time student.

Leave of absence requests must be submitted by the second Friday after the semester starts.

Please note additional deadlines are still applicable (e.g. registration, tuition, etc.)

The following is the criteria for a student to be considered for a leave of absence:

1. Students who have completed at least one year of study at BYU–Hawaii may apply for a one-semester leave of absence if they can demonstrate that returning out of the normal sequence would not impact their regular progress toward graduation within the four-year limit.
2. A leave of absence may be granted based on a number of circumstances. (Please refer to BYUH Leave of Absence policy) If an LOA is based on a physical or mental health need, it must be supported by a physician or licensed clinical counselor. The student can work with BYU–Hawaii Counseling & Disability Services or Health Services to obtain the necessary documentation.
3. The student must be a current continuing student.
4. The leave of absence cannot be taken during the student’s last semester in school.
5. The student is encouraged to counsel with the offices listed below to understand the impact of their leave of absence. Students are responsible for the information and impact of the leave of absence that is discussed as well as those not currently anticipated.
6. Once the student has discussed their leave of absence with their academic advisor, they are encouraged to submit this plan in their leave of absence application. In the review process, the student should demonstrate how the student has planned to meet their financial needs, comply with visa requirements, and meet any other obligations that will affect the time on leave.
7. The request will be reviewed by the appropriate departments before final approval. The student will be contacted with the decision at the “BYU–Hawaii Email” they have provided on this form.

To request a leave of absence, follow these steps:

1. Before you fill out the form, meet with your academic advisor so you can discuss the impact a leave of absence will have on your graduation timeline. You must be able to graduate within your allotted time with an LOA.
2. Meet with a financial aid counselor as well to see what impact a LOA will have on federal aid and scholarship.
3. The form can be found under Handshake Experiences. Please read all instructions before filling out the form.
4. Under "Experience Type" please select the appropriate leave of absence type depending on whether you are an international or domestic student.
5. Under "Employer" and "Job," type "Leave of Absence." The rest of that section is not required so you may leave it blank.
6. Fill out the rest of the form with your information.
7. On the next page, please read all the questions thoroughly before stating that you understand.
8. Click "Request Experience" on the next page.
9. Add any additional documents (doctor's notes, medical certificates, etc.) after you request your experience by looking at the details of the experiences and clicking "new attachment."

You can revisit your request at any time and check the status of it.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact the dean of students office or find more information about taking a leave of absence in the university online catalog.