Students considering a Leave of Absence should contact the Dean of Students Office to begin the process.

• Phone: (309) 556-3111
• Email: dstudents@iwu.edu
• Location: Holmes Hall, Suite 103

Financial aid is re-evaluated annually based on FAFSA criteria. Generally, there is no financial disadvantage when a student takes a Leave of Absence. However, if a student withdraws, their IWU scholarship is not guaranteed and is unlikely to transfer to another institution.

For detailed financial aid information, please contact:

• Financial Aid Office
• Phone: (309) 556-3096
• Email: iwufaid@iwu.edu

Students interested in taking courses elsewhere while on leave must consult with the Registrar鈥檚 Office to ensure the courses are transferable to IWU for credit. This should occur prior to enrolling in any outside courses.

Students planning to transfer should notify the Dean of Students Office so their Leave of Absence can be officially converted to a Withdrawal.

• A meeting (in-person or virtual) with the Dean of Students Office is required to complete the necessary documentation.
• Students should also contact the Registrar鈥檚 Office to request an official transcript be sent to their new institution.

• The student must schedule a reentry meeting with the Dean of Students Office.
• For mental health-related leaves, a licensed therapist or counselor must complete and fax a Reentry Form to the Dean of Students Office.
• For medical leaves, a physician must submit documentation confirming the student is fit to return.
• The Reentry Form should be faxed to (309) 556-3662.
• Once reviewed, the student will participate in a final reentry meeting with the Dean of Students Office.

Documented reasons may include:

• Academic concerns
• Medical or mental health needs
• Financial challenges
• Personal or institutional reasons
• Other extenuating circumstances

Students returning from a Leave of Absence must coordinate with the Office of Residential Life regarding housing. While the University strives to accommodate returning students, housing preferences are not guaranteed and are subject to availability.

Students enrolled in the University鈥檚 health insurance plan should contact the Student Accounts or Health Services office to determine if and how coverage will be affected. Coverage may remain active for a limited time, depending on the specific policy.

Students on a Leave of Absence are generally not eligible to use campus services, including the fitness center, counseling services, and academic advising. In limited cases, consultation may be allowed. Please contact the Dean of Students Office for clarification.

Students who are not enrolled in classes may not participate in campus employment or work study. Eligibility for employment resumes upon official re-enrollment and active student status.

There is no option for an official extended absence from classes while maintaining enrollment. Students with special circumstances should talk with the Dean of Students office or their advisor to explore options.

Your top priority while you're on a leave is to focus on your well-being (physical and mental health) and resolving whatever concerns created the need for the leave of absence. The Dean of Students will reach out to you by email and phone. We also hope you will contact your advisor to register for your return semester. Your IWU email will remain active.