Leave of Absence and Withdrawal

If you need to take a Leave of Absence or withdraw from Purchase, you must notify a Designated School Official (DSO) in the Office for Global Education (OGE) before applying for the leave or withdrawal. You should also seek advice from your academic advisor to discuss the academic ramifications of taking a leave. 

When you take a Leave of Absence from school, your F-1 immigration status becomes invalid because you are not attending school. According to USCIS regulations, you must leave the United States immediately upon interruption of your studies unless you obtain authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO) before you terminate your course of study. You are then granted a 15-day grace period after you terminate your studies.

If you are an F-1 student, taking a Leave of Absence the first semester of your last year at Purchase makes you ineligible for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training. USCIS regulations state that you must be in status for one academic year in order to be eligible for Practical Training. Contact OGE immediately to discuss this requirement if you are taking a Leave of Absence in your senior year.

You will find complete instructions and forms on the Registrar’s Leaves and Withdrawal page.