Leave of Absence and Term Withdrawal
If students plan to take a temporary break from University studies for one or more terms with the intent to return for a future term, they may request a leave of absence or a term withdrawal.
Duration of Leave of Absence (Personal & Medical):
Minimum of one academic semester (4 months)
Maximum of two academic semesters (8 months)
Personal Leave of Absence
Students may choose to take a personal leave of absence for internships, financial considerations, family responsibilities, or social engagement purposes.
Medical Leave of Absence
A counselor or a physician should make a recommendation if a medical leave of absence is the appropriate choice for the student.
Total Withdrawal
Before requesting a total withdrawal from NYU Shanghai, students are advised to consider all alternative options, such as taking a leave of absence, reducing their workload by withdrawing from a course, or changing their major. Students are encouraged to discuss these options with their academic advisor. If students proceed with a total withdrawal from NYU Shanghai and later wish to return to their studies, they will need to reapply for admission.
For non-Chinese nationals, if students intend to stop their studies at the university before completing their program and do not plan to return for a future term, students need to request a total withdrawal. For Chinese nationals, students need to request a total withdrawal and complete the Total Withdrawal Form for Chinese Students’ Dossiers, then submit it to their academic advisors via email.
Leave of Absence FAQs
Will I still be able to prepare to register for courses when I don’t have access to Albert during my leave of absence?
You will still be able to search for courses on Albert public course search, which doesn’t require login information. You will be able to enroll in courses on Albert once your registration hold is lifted by your academic advisor.
Will I still be able to access my VPN during my leave?
If you aren't enrolled in any courses, you may not be able to access the VPN.
Will I still have access to the academic building and campus services while I am on a leave of absence?
Students may not audit classes, hold campus jobs, participate in student organizations, attend campus events, or reside in NYU housing during a leave of absence. Students may only visit the campus and any other University-owned facilities with the written permission of the Dean of Students or a designee.
Will my health insurance be impacted during a leave of absence?
Please check with the Student Health Center (shanghai.health@nyu.edu) about health insurance plans.
Can I extend my leave of absence?
Students are eligible for a maximum of 2 semesters of leave. An extension or reduction of the leave period may be granted by the Dean of Students for good cause. Students cannot be reinstated for a semester after the registration deadline for that semester has passed.
Information for Advisors [Log in Required]