Involuntary Medical Leave

The University may place a student on Involuntary Medical Leave for the following reasons:

  • A student is deemed to be a danger or a threat to the safety, health, or well-being to himself/herself or others.
  • A student has significant health concerns and/or accompanying behavior that are disrupting the educational experience of others.
  • A student has significant health concerns and/or accompanying behavior that renders the student unfit to complete educational assignments (e.g. clinical, internships, practicums, fieldwork).

When placed on Involuntary Medical Leave, the University will outline the length of leave and criteria to resume academic work at Messiah University. In extraordinary circumstances, the Dean of School of Graduate & Professional Studies may initiate the process for a student’s Involuntary Medical Leave. Such action may be taken in consultation with the Provost and additional appropriate University officials.

Returning from Medical Leave

An ADP student must apply to return from Medical Leave (Voluntary or Involuntary) by completing the Return from Medical Leave form. Typically, this includes providing documentation from his/her physician, therapist, or other healthcare provider which outlines their fitness to return to their academic program. The deadline to submit documentation is one month prior to the start of the next part-of-term or semester. All information will be reviewed, and a decision regarding fitness to return will be made by the Director of Graduate Curriculum and Student Services. The registrar’s office will notify the student and appropriate offices on campus if approval is granted.

A student placed on Involuntary Medical Leave by the University is not guaranteed permission to return.

Financial Aid Implications

It is the responsibility of the student to contact the Student Financial Services Office to discuss the implications of medical leave for his/her financial aid.

Refunds of Tuition and Fees

Refunds for students will be provided per the refund policy as published by Student Financial Services.