Leaves, Gaps, and Breaks from the Curriculum
Students may consider a leave, gap, or break from the traditional curriculum for a variety of reasons – including personal circumstances (e.g., medical, family or other life events) or opportunities enrichment, professional growth, and development (e.g., research, alternate degrees, or other scholarly pursuits).
If you are considering leave, your first step is to meet with a Dean from the Office of Student Affairs (OSA). Together, you will discuss whether a leave is the right decision, how to make the most of your time away, and the academic, financial, and personal implications of your leave.
Personal/Medical Leave of Absence
Students may request personal, medical or parental leave at any time. Depending on the timing and duration of leave, graduation may be delayed.
Students considering parental leave should review Resources for Students with Children for additional guidance and support.
Enrichment Leave of Absence
Students may request an enrichment leave of absence to pursue interests that promote professional growth such as research, additional coursework/degree programs, or other activities.
An enrichment leave of absence is typically one academic year in duration (July to July) and will result in delayed graduation. Requests for enrichment leave will only be considered after completion of the clerkship phase.
Students considering a leave of absence for the pursuit of research, should schedule a meeting with Dr. Greg Carey in the Office of Student Research to discuss potential opportunities, funding mechanisms, and options at UMSOM.
Contacts & Support Services
The OSA is the primary contact for students considering or taking a leave of absence and will provide ongoing support throughout the leave period.
Students considering a leave, but most especially those receiving financial aid, must also meet with the following offices to discuss implications for tuition, fees, and loan repayment:
Students on an Official Leave of Absence:
- Are not registered and therefore do not pay tuition and fees
- Are not eligible for financial aid during the leave period
- Do not have access to student services including:
- Student health insurance
- Malpractice coverage
- Student health and counseling services
- Library, gym, and other campus facilities
- May not participate in pre-clerkship electives, clinical activities, or hold elected or leadership positions
For detailed guidance, please review the Leave of Absence (LOA) Checklist available under Additional Resources below.