What is a Leave of Absence?

There are times when students may need to take time away from their studies for personal reasons. A Leave of Absence may be granted to students who are enrolled in a post-secondary program working towards a credential at Lethbridge Polytechnic.

A leave of Absence is available to current students who:

  1. Are enrolled in a post-secondary credit program that is eligible for a Lethbridge Polytechnic credential, and
  2. Have successfully completed at least one (1) course in their current program, and
  3. Have an academic standing in their immediate last term of attendance of “Good” or higher, and
  4. Are requesting a leave due to family medical, legal, medical, military, parental, personal, or religious obligations.

Please note that a Leave of Absence and a regularly scheduled break are two different things. Students do not need to request a Leave of Absence during the Summer, as this is an optional semester of study.

Throughout the academic year, there are regularly scheduled breaks, including:

  • Study week during each term
  • Holiday period (every December)
  • Breaks between term

How Do I Request a Leave of Absence?

  1. The student must first speak to their Associate Dean to determine eligibility for a Leave of Absence.
  2. The student must initiate the Leave of Absence request by completing the Request for a Leave of Absence form. This form will be provided by the Associate Dean to students who are eligible for a Leave of Absence.
    1. If studying on a permit, the student must also consult with the International Office to discuss impacts relating to their study permit.
    2. The Request for a Leave of Absence form must be submitted prior to the student’s absence in class(es).
    3. Students may be required to submit documentation to support the leave request.
  3. If a Leave of Absence is approved, it will be indicated on both the internal and official student transcript.

Visit the Document Centre for more information about a Leave of Absence.

To discuss your request for a Leave of Absence, and determine your eligibility, complete and submit this form:

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