Student Support Services
77 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139-4307
(617)-253-4861
Explore the pages of this section to learn about the resources, events and advice for returning students. You will also find a checklist of things to do following your approved request to return to help you prepare for your return to campus.
As you are planning your return to campus, you may be feeling a mix of emotions. Let us offer you some reassurances about your return. First, you are not alone. Each semester approximately 45 students are approved to return. Secondly, we have your back. There are a lot of resources on campus that are there to help you as you transition back to MIT. Lastly, you can do it! You have been approved to return because the Institute has confidence in your ability to succeed here. Welcome back!
The information below describes supportive resources available and events specifically for students who are returning to MIT after time away.
Students returning from time away from MIT often face unique challenges. These challenges can include concerns about academics, reconnecting with friends, discomfort explaining their time away, and feeling alone. The returning students group is a powerful community where students are able to discuss these concerns and obtain support from each other and from the group leaders. The group consists of students in their first term back at MIT and meets once a week for the duration of the semester. For more information contact returnrequest@mit.edu.
All currently registered students who have returned to MIT after time away are included on the returning-students@mit.edu listserv. Student Support Services has set up this list as a way for us to easily communicate with you, and more importantly, as a way to facilitate communication between all of the returning students. If at any time you wish to be removed from this list please contact returnrequest@mit.edu.
Are you interested in connecting with an MIT alum or current returning student who took a leave during their time at MIT? Are you interested offering support to students who have recently returned to MIT after time away? If so, contact returnrequest@mit.edu.
Each semester S3 hosts several events for returning students. Programming is intended to help reorient you to the MIT Community and resources as well as to provide you with opportunities to get to know your fellow returning students. Check your email for information on upcoming event dates and times. We hope to see you there!
Other events include career workshops, alumni gatherings and end of the semester celebrations
Do you have an idea for a Returning Student event that you would like to see? Email returnrequest@mit.edu.
What is it like to be a returning student? Check out some advice from previous returning students who were once in you shoes.
If you would like to speak with another student who has been through the leave and return processes, let your dean know. Your dean will make every effort to connect you with another student who can share their experience.
Please see the checklist below of things to do to help you prepare for your return. Students requesting return from a Leave of Absence (LOA) should consult the Returning from Leave of Absence (LOA) page and checklist.