A Leave of Absence (LOA) allows eligible learners to temporarily pause their studies and return at a later date without withdrawing from the University.
Note: This article reflects the policies in the current catalog. Learners enrolled under a previous catalog version should refer to their applicable catalog or contact Learner Success for clarification, as LOA terms and allowances may differ.
Who Is Eligible
The LOA policy applies to learners enrolled in degree programs only. Learners in single courses, certificate programs, or currently on academic or financial suspension are not eligible.
LOA Bank Limits
Nexford uses a personal LOA bank – the total time available to you across your entire program. The limit depends on your program:
| Program | Total LOA Allowance |
|---|---|
| Associate degree programs (e.g., AAS) | 6 months |
| Bachelor's degree programs (e.g., BBA) | 12 months |
| Master's degree programs (e.g., MBA, MSDA) | 4 months |
No more than 180 calendar days of LOA may be taken within any rolling 12-month period. LOA usage does not reset if you are readmitted to the same program – time previously used counts toward your total.
When an LOA Can Begin
LOA requests must be submitted in advance and in writing. An LOA cannot take effect in the same month it is requested — it applies only to future months. All approved LOAs begin on the 1st of the approved month.
Learners are expected to complete all coursework and receive final grades before the LOA start month. If a course is still active when the LOA begins, the learner will be withdrawn from it in accordance with the University's withdrawal policy.
Emergency situations: In documented emergency circumstances, an LOA may be approved without prior notice. The effective date will be determined by the University based on when the emergency prevented the learner from continuing, supported by institutional records. Contact the Learner Success Team as soon as possible if you are in this situation.
Reasons LOAs Are Typically Granted
- Serious medical conditions
- Significant family obligations
- Significant employment obligations
An LOA is not the appropriate option if you have missed deadlines, are struggling academically, or feel temporarily overwhelmed. In those situations, speak with your Success Advisor and course instructor about a learning plan and available support resources.
What Happens During Your LOA
- Tuition billing is paused
- Any unused tuition is credited toward future study
- Access to Canvas and Nexford learning systems is suspended for the duration of the LOA
Returning from LOA
Reminder emails will be sent 25, 15, 10, and 5 days before your scheduled return date. You are expected to confirm and resume your studies by the end of the month prior to your return date. Failure to respond or return may result in dismissal from the University.
If you wish to return earlier than planned, contact your Success Advisor to arrange an early return.
How to Request an LOA
Before submitting your request, speak with your Success Advisor to confirm your remaining LOA balance, discuss your situation, and agree on your start and end dates.
To submit your request, use the Academic Request Form and select Apply for Leave of Absence as the request type.
All LOA requests are subject to University approval.
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