A Temporary Emergency Leave of Absence is available for students who experience the serious illness or death of an immediate family member and need to leave campus for a short period of time.

Students may be approved for up to 14 days of temporary leave. Each request is reviewed individually by the Dean of Students Office to determine eligibility based on the student's circumstances and supporting documentation.

To request a temporary emergency leave of absence, please follow the steps below:

1. Meet with a member of the Dean of Students Office to discuss your emergency and determine whether you qualify for a Temporary Emergency Leave of Absence. Visit our office at LSB 291 during office hours, or send us an email at byuhdeanofstudents@byuh.edu

2. Inform your instructors about your emergency, explain the reason for your absence, and discuss any academic accommodations or coursework that may need to be completed during or after your leave.

3. Complete requires travel approvals. IWork students need to fill the travel form and submit the form with the required signatures. Self-funded students are not required to complete the travel request form. 

4. All international students must meet with an ISS advisor before traveling to ensure their immigration documents are properly prepared for departure and re-entry into the United States.

5. Students are responsible for funding their own travel arrangements. The travel itinerary should be provided to the Dean of Students Office for review as part of the approval process. Before departing, you must have a confirmed departure flight, a confirmed return flight to campus, and a complete travel itinerary.

6. Before your leave can be approved and your Travel Approval Letter issued, please provide the following to the Dean of Students Office:

• Documentation supporting your emergency (such as a doctor's note, hospital documentation, or death certificate)
• A copy of your completed IWORK Travel Request Form (IWORK students only)
• A copy of your complete flight itinerary, including both departure and return flights

Documents may be submitted in person or emailed to byuhdeanofstudents@byuh.edu

Length of Leave

A Temporary Emergency Leave of Absence is generally approved for up to 14 days. If additional time away from the university is needed, the Dean of Students Office can discuss other options with you, including:

• A semester Leave of Absence
• Discontinuing from the university with the intention to return for a later semester.

Our office is happy to help you determine which option best fits your situation.

Counseling Support

We understand that emergencies involving loved ones can be emotionally difficult. If you need additional support during this time, we encourage you to contact BYU–Hawaii Counseling Services at counselingservices@byuh.edu or call (808) 675-3518. They are available to provide confidential counseling and support as you navigate your circumstances.

If you have any questions about emergency leave of absence, please come to our office in LSB 291.