Leave of Absence from the Academic Program
Xavier University School of Veterinary Medicine (XUSOVM) is a full-time veterinary medical program. Students are required to submit a Leave of Absence (LOA) request form if they wish to take time away from their studies after enrollment in the DVM program.
Students should be aware that any interruption in their education, including an approved Leave of Absence, may need to be explained to licensing authorities, credentialing organizations, and other regulatory bodies.
Students may apply for a Leave of Absence from the academic program for one of the following reasons, provided they are in good financial standing with XUSOVM:
- Illness or injury of the student that affects the student's ability to participate in academic activities.
- Illness or injury of a dependent or immediate family member that affects the student's ability to continue academic studies.
Approval of a Leave of Absence does not waive any associated fees. Students are responsible for all fees applicable to the approved leave category.
Preclinical Leave of Absence
The In-School Leave of Absence applies to students enrolled in DVM Years 1-3.
The In-School LOA allows a student to take one semester away from academic studies while maintaining active student status with XUSOVM and, where applicable, maintaining student immigration status.
Conditions and Requirements
- The In-School LOA fee is USD $3,200 per semester. Payment must be received prior to the beginning of the leave semester.
- Students may not take consecutive semesters of In-School Leave of Absence.
- All requests for In-School LOA must be submitted in writing and approved by the appropriate Dean.
- Unapproved leaves will result in Administrative Withdrawal from the University and will require readmission before returning to the program.
- Approved LOAs with unpaid fees will result in Administrative Withdrawal from the University and will require readmission.
- Unapproved leaves may result in the loss of student immigration status, where applicable.
- Students must obtain written confirmation from Student Finance and the insurer of whether University-sponsored coverage continues during an In-School LOA. Students remain responsible for arranging continuous coverage and any uncovered medical expenses.
- Students on an In-School LOA will not be permitted to access campus facilities unless specifically authorized by the University.
- Extraordinary circumstances, including documented medical conditions or the death of an immediate family member, may be reviewed individually by the appropriate Dean.
Clinical leave and return to training
Clinical-year leave requires written approval coordinated through the Dean of Veterinary Medicine and Clinical Year Coordinator. Students must notify the affiliate and Registrar and obtain written instructions on return dates, missed rotations, competency requirements, insurance, and any applicable charges. Students may not assume that a leave preserves a particular placement or completion date.
Financial Obligations During Leave of Absence
- All Leave of Absence invoices and associated charges must be paid in full before a student is permitted to resume academic studies or continue with clinical rotations.
- Failure to satisfy Leave of Absence financial obligations may result in dismissal from the University.
Important Notice
Students considering a Leave of Absence are strongly encouraged to consult with the Dean of Student Affairs, Registrar, and Student Finance Office to fully understand the academic, financial, immigration, and graduation implications of taking a leave from the DVM program.