The College offers two types of leaves of absence that students can elect. Emergency/medical leave is relevant when a semester is already under way, and personal leave is relevant when a student is planning for a future semester off. See information and application processes below.
Emergency/Medical Leave of Absence
Students interested in seeking an emergency leave of absence should consult the Student Handbook for more information about the Emergency/Medical Leaves of Absence policy. Important additional information about taking a leave of absence can be found on the Academic Advising GrinnellShare (login required).
Students should also make an appointment to speak immediately with the Dean for Student Success and Academic Advising, Joyce Stern, by emailing Advising or by calling 641-269-3713. Once decided, students need to complete the Emergency Leave Application form found on the Academic Advising GrinnellShare and submit it with documentation directly to Joyce Stern.
Personal Leave of Absence
Students planning a leave of absence for a future term should first consult the Student Handbook for more information about the Personal Leave of Absence policy. Important additional information about taking a leave of absence can be found on the Academic Advising GrinnellShare (login required). If you wish, schedule a brief interview with the Dean for Student Success and Academic Advising by emailing Advising or by calling 641-269-3713.
Once a student is sure they want to pause their enrollment, apply for a personal leave of absence by logging into the Academic Advising GrinnellShare to find the application and submission instructions.