Taking Time Off from the University
When students need to take time away from their studies, there are several options depending on your situation. This page outlines how to withdraw, take a leave of absence, or cancel any active enrollment—and what each option means for the students’ academic record, financial aid, and return to the University.
The information below pertains to Undergraduate Students Only within West Campus.
As students consider their options, check the Academic Calendar for important dates and deadlines.
Consider the withdrawal/leave type that fits your needs
Students have the option to request a permanent withdrawal if there is no intention to return to the University.
- A request must be submitted through SOLAR or the Withdrawal/Leave of Absence Form (will become available for use on Day 1 of the active semester)
- The student will be withdrawn from all current and future terms
- Students who would like to return to their degree program will need to pursue Re-matriculation.
New students: Students who withdraw prior to the add/drop deadline are required to reapply through Undergraduate Admissions. Admission is not guaranteed.
Students have the option to request a leave of absence if there is an intention to return at a later time.
- A request must be submitted through SOLAR or by submitting the Withdrawal/Leave of Absence form (will become available for use on Day 1 of the active semester)
- This status allows a temporary break from enrollment while maintaining eligibility to return
- Students remain in an active status for up to two (2) semesters, and can return within that time. After two (2) semesters without enrollment, students will need to pursue Re-matriculation.
New students: Students (transfers and freshmen) in their first semester are not eligible for a leave of any kind until after the Add/Drop deadline.-
Students who are unable to continue enrollment due to a medical or health-related condition may request a medical leave.
- Coordination with the Student Support Team is required
- Documentation from a licensed provider must be submitted
- A request must be submitted via the Medical Leave Semester Withdrawal Form (will become available for use on Day 1 of the active semester)
- Clearance is required prior to returning
Requests submitted without appropriate documentation will be processed as a standard leave of absence.
New students: Students (transfers and freshmen) in their first semester are not eligible for a leave of any kind until after the Add/Drop deadline.
Available for students entering military service:
- U.S. service: requires approval from the Office of Veterans Affairs
- Non-U.S. service: requires Visa & Immigration Services approval (if the student is studying on an F-1 or J-1 Visa)
- A request must be submitted through SOLAR or the Withdrawal/Leave of Absence Form (will become available for use on Day 1 of the active semester)
New students: Students (transfers and freshmen) in their first semester are not eligible for a leave of any kind until after the Add/Drop deadline.
Students enrolling full-time at another SUNY institution have the option to withdraw from the University.
- A request must be submitted through SOLAR or the Withdrawal/Leave of Absence Form (will become available for use on Day 1 of the active semester)
- Verification of enrollment at the new institution is required
Before the Semester Starts
Students who decide not to attend prior to the start of the semester may cancel enrollment by dropping all courses in SOLAR.
- All registered courses must be dropped in SOLAR, reducing enrollment to zero credits
- A formal withdrawal request is not required
- New incoming students must alert the Undergraduate Admissions Office as to their decision not to attend.
Once the semester has begun, students must submit a withdrawal or leave of absence request to be dropped from any remaining courses if still enrolled.
Important Policies to Keep In Mind
Eligibility to Return
- Students who leave in good academic standing may return within two consecutive semesters without re-matriculating
- Students who do not return within this timeframe are required to complete the re-matriculation process
- Students with a cumulative GPA below 2.0 or prior withdrawal history may be subject to additional restrictions before returning
- For more information please review our Undergraduate Catalog.
Approvals May Be Required
Certain student populations are required to obtain additional approvals prior to submitting a request, including:
- International students
- Honors College students
- Student-athletes
- EOP/AIM students
- First-year students
Financial Considerations
- Students are responsible for tuition and fees in accordance with the University’s Tuition Liability Schedule. Withdrawal after established deadlines may result in partial financial liability.
- Financial Aid and TAP
- Withdrawal or leave of absence may impact financial aid eligibility. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with the Financial Aid Office prior to submitting a request.
Housing and Meal Plans
Meal plans are automatically canceled upon a withdrawal having been processed. Prior to the start of the semester, students should connect with the Meal Plan Services Office to cancel any agreements for that upcoming semester.
Students residing on campus are required to vacate housing and check out within 48
hours of the withdrawal having been processed.
Housing is not guaranteed for students returning in a future semester. Any questions
regarding financial liability for housing can be directed to the Campus Residences Office.
Returning to the University
After a temporary leave - Students may return without re-applying if the following conditions are met:
- The student remained in good academic standing
- No disciplinary or administrative holds are present
- The return occurs within the permitted timeframe
- Advising clearance may be required prior to registration.
After a Permanent Withdrawal - Students seeking to return after a permanent withdrawal must complete the re-matriculation process, which includes submission of the appropriate form and payment of any required fees.
Special Populations