Leave of Absence Guide

Overview

The purpose of this form is to notify the Office for International Student Programs & Services (OISPS ) of your intention to take either a leave of absence or withdraw from Lamar University.


Instructions

If you are applying for a leave of absence or withdrawal before the semester begins:

1. Complete the Leave of Absence Form below.
2. If you are in the U.S., depart within 15 days of your Authorized Early Withdrawal.


If you are applying for a leave of absence or withdrawal during the semester:

1. Complete the Leave of Absence Form found below.
2. Make an appointment with an OISPS advisor.
3. Withdraw from all of your classes after only OISPS approves your request. The Registrar’s Office can help you, if necessary. More information can be found on the registrar's website.
4. Depart the United States within 15 days of submission of this form.


If you are planning on re-entering the United States following your leave of absence:

1. If you will not be out of classes for more than five months: enter with your current I-20 and a valid travel signature. Notify OISPS thirty (30) days in advance of the start of the semester for which you wish to return to ensure your record will be returned to ACTIVE. Please email us a confirmation of your return ticket to the U.S.
2. If you will not be in classes for more than five months: contact OISPS at least two months prior to your return. You will need a new SEVIS record and I-20. The Department of State advises students to apply for a new visa at a US Consulate or Embassy before re-entry if returning from a leave of greater than five months with initial attendance I-20s.


Note: If you wish to return for the summer semester, you must be registered for classes full time during that semester.

F-1/J-1 Authorized Early Withdrawal Application

F-1/J-1 Authorized Early Withdrawal Form (PDF) (To be submitted with the application above)