M.D. Handbook and Policies updates
Leave of Absence Process and Policies
Updates:
- Standardized Re-Entry Dates: Students returning from an LOA can now only re-enter the curriculum at the start of each academic block: January 1, April 1, July 1, or October 1.
- LOA Duration & Extensions: All LOA types are now limited to 1 year at a time. Extensions must be requested at least 30 days before the current leave ends.
- Parental Leave Clarification: A new section addresses Parental Leave, which may be categorized under medical or personal leave depending on circumstances.
- Participation in School Activities: Students on leave may not participate in school activities or exams (including USMLE exams) except in cases of an Academic LOA, or where some exceptions may apply.
- Return Requirements Expanded: Students returning from Medical, Administrative, or long-term LOAs may need to provide updated documentation (e.g., fitness to return, immunizations, compliance with prior requirements) and may not be guaranteed prior clinical placements.
- Leave Limitations & Oversight: Students who exceed one year away or request multiple leaves may be reviewed by the Student Promotions Committee to assess continued academic progress.
- Official Record and Financial Aid Impact: All LOAs are part of the student’s official record and affect financial aid eligibility and tuition assessments in accordance with university policy.
- Updated process for returning from a leave, and failure to return from a leave is considered a voluntary withdrawal.
- Editorial Updates for clarity and flow of information.