Leave of Absence from NTU: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

For various personal and academic reasons, students may find themselves in a position where they need to take a leave of absence from their studies at Nanyang Technological University (NTU). This guide provides comprehensive information on the process, eligibility, and implications of taking a leave of absence from NTU.

Eligibility for Leave of Absence

To be eligible for a leave of absence, NTU students must meet the following criteria:

• Have completed at least one semester of study at NTU
• Have a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 2.0 or higher
• Have no outstanding academic or disciplinary issues

Reasons for Leave of Absence

Students may request a leave of absence for various reasons, including:

• Medical reasons: A physical or mental health condition that requires extended time away from studies
• Personal reasons: Family emergencies, personal commitments, or other exceptional circumstances
• Academic reasons: To pursue research, internships, or other academic opportunities that cannot be accommodated within the regular academic schedule

Duration of Leave of Absence

The duration of a leave of absence can range from one semester to a maximum of two years. Students may request an extension of their leave for up to an additional year, but the total duration of the leave cannot exceed three years.

Application Process

To apply for a leave of absence, students must follow the following steps:

1. Submit a completed Leave of Absence Application Form to the Office of Student Affairs (OSA)
2. Provide supporting documentation, such as medical certificates, letters of support, or evidence of exceptional circumstances
3. Meet with an academic advisor from the OSA to discuss their request and receive guidance
4. Submit a final request to the Dean of Students for approval

Implications of Leave of Absence

Taking a leave of absence has several implications, including:

• Suspension of academic progression: Students on leave of absence will not be able to register for courses or attend classes during the period of their leave.
• Readmission: Students who return from leave of absence must submit a readmission application to the OSA. Readmission is not guaranteed and will be subject to academic performance and availability of slots.
• Financial aid: Students who receive financial aid may experience changes in their eligibility or funding during their leave of absence.
• Tuition fees: Students on leave of absence may still be required to pay tuition fees for research projects or other academic activities conducted during their leave.

Returning from Leave of Absence

Upon returning from leave of absence, students should:

• Submit a readmission application to the OSA
• Consult with their academic advisor to review their academic progress and plan for their remaining studies
• Contact the Registrar's Office to register for courses
• Notify the Financial Aid Office to update their financial aid status

Support Services for Students on Leave of Absence

NTU provides various support services to students on leave of absence, including:

• Counseling and support: Students may access counseling services from the Counseling and Wellness Centre for support with personal or emotional issues
• Academic advising: Academic advisors from the OSA can provide guidance on academic planning, course selection, and readmission requirements
• Financial aid: The Financial Aid Office can assist with financial planning and provide information on scholarships and other funding opportunities

Case Studies

Case Study 1:

A student takes a one-semester leave of absence due to a medical condition. After returning from leave, they consult with their academic advisor to review their academic progress and develop a plan to complete their studies within the original timeframe.

Case Study 2:

A student requests a two-year leave of absence to pursue research opportunities. During their leave, they conduct research at a prestigious institution and publish their findings in a peer-reviewed journal. Upon returning from leave, they are able to resume their studies and graduate with honors.

Case Study 3:

A student takes a leave of absence for personal reasons. While on leave, they volunteer at a local organization and develop valuable skills. Upon returning from leave, they incorporate their experiences into their academic pursuits and become actively involved in community engagement activities.

Conclusion

Taking a leave of absence from NTU can be a valuable opportunity for students to address personal and academic challenges or pursue other interests. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and implications of leave of absence, students can make informed decisions and maximize their time away from their studies. NTU provides various support services to students on leave of absence, ensuring that they have the resources they need to succeed upon their return.

Tables

Table 1: Reasons for Leave of Absence

Table 2: Duration of Leave of Absence

Table 3: Support Services for Students on Leave of Absence