Frequently
Asked
Questions

If a leave is processed during the semester, the transcript will note that the student took a leave during that semester, but the type of leave will not be indicated. If a leave is processed in between semesters, the transcript will just have a gap between the semesters that a student was registered. If you intend to take classes or transfer to another college or university, you may need a copy of your MIT transcript. You can obtain a copy through the Registrar's Office.

Tuition and housing charges will be prorated to your last date of attendance. Whether or not this results in a credit in your student account depends on when you leave your financial aid package. As part of the leave process, it is important for you to talk with your financial aid counselor in Student Financial Services about how taking a leave might impact your financial aid.

The vast majority of returning students report a very positive outcome during their time away – they feel better able to focus and prioritize the things that are most important to them at MIT. However, some challenges students report experiencing include: graduating with a different class, what to tell people about why they took a leave, adjusted schedule for milestones like ring delivery, a change in living groups, or a sense of feeling “older” then others in their grade. We encourage you to talk with your dean or other students who have returned from a leave about these or other worries you may have about taking a leave.

A student* in good academic standing who wishes to take time away from MIT may consider taking a Leave of Absence (LOA). If you are thinking about going on leave, you should set up a meeting with a S3 dean. Your dean will help determine the appropriate type of leave to take and answer any questions you have. If you are taking a personal or medical leave, it is important to talk with your dean about what the expectations will be when you request to return. If you are requesting a leave of absence from an upcoming semester, your dean can help you think through your plans. Once you have made your decision, your dean will process your leave and you will be ready to go. While you are on leave, your dean will be available should you have any questions. *The COVID-19 emergency has necessitated that we clarify the intent and practice of our Leave of Absence Policy. LOAs are available to students who have completed at least one semester of MIT and are in good academic standing. As such, first year students are not eligible to request a Leave of Absence for the fall semester. Incoming first-year students should consult with the Admissions Office about deferring their enrollment for the 2020-2021 academic year by writing to gapyear@mit.edu.