Maintenance of Matriculation and Leave of Absence

Students must maintain continuous registration throughout their studies in the graduate program.

Continuous registration can be achieved by doing one of the following each fall and spring term:

• registering for at least one credit
• registering for G47.4747 (maintenance of matriculation)
• obtaining an approved leave of absence

There is a limit of 4 semesters of maintenance of matriculation by fee prior to the completion of coursework. Once coursework is complete, there is no limit on the number of semesters of maintenance of matriculation permitted.

A student in good standing who is obliged to withdraw temporarily for national service, serious illness, or compelling personal reasons may request a LEAVE OF ABSENCE, which, if approved by the GSAS Vice Dean, maintains the student's status and assures readmission at the end of the leave.

The length of a LOA should not exceed one year, except in cases of compulsory national service.

During the leave, no matriculation fees accrue. The period of approved leave of absence counts as time to degree, except in cases of compulsory national service.

Because of visa requirements, an international student can request a leave of absence for medical reasons only (contact the OISS for further details).

To request a leave of absence, fill out a GSAS Leave of Absence request form specifying whether the request is for one or two semesters, and providing a detailed description of the reason for your proposed leave. Include any supporting documentation, such as a doctor's note in the case of illness, and submit it to your program coordinator. Master's students should submit forms and documentation to Jennifer Conlan Darlington in Room 324, or fax it to the attention of Jennifer Conlan Darlington at 212 995-4124. PhD students should submit forms to Santiago Pizzini in Room 325, or fax it to the attention of Santiago Pizzini at 212 995-4124. You will be notified by email of the final approval or denial of the request.

If the leave is denied, you must register for G47.4747-001 and pay the required fees for Maintenance of Matriculation.