Withdrawing from the University

Students Withdrawing in Good Standing

If a student begins an academic term at Brandeis, but chooses not to continue the semester after a few weeks, they are technically withdrawing from the university. The student must contact their academic advisor to submit their request to withdraw from the University in writing. (Any courses taken at other institutions while on withdrawal from the University are not eligible for transfer toward the Brandeis degree.) Students wishing to withdraw may do so at any time up to and inclusive of the last day of classes. When withdrawing during the semester, a "W" notation is entered for each course they are currently enrolled in. This simply denotes that they were enrolled and withdrew before the end of the semester.

When a student decides to return to Brandeis - they are required to submit a personal statement and two letters of reference to their academic advisor. Their advisor will present this information to either the Committee on Academic Standing (COAS) or its Executive Council. They should plan to submit documentation no later than October 1 for Spring semester and April 1 for Fall semester.

Students Withdrawing on Academic Probation

Students on academic probation are not eligible to take a leave of absence from the University. They may, however, arrange for time away from campus by withdrawing from the University for a minimum of one academic year (two semesters). After a year has elapsed, students must petition to return to the University. The student is required to submit a personal statement and two letters of reference to their class advisor. Students may also be asked to provide documentation regarding their physical and/or mental health.

Since their academic advisor will present this information to the Committee on Academic Standing (COAS) for review, we strongly recommend the student get in touch with him/her at least three months prior to the semester in which they hope to return. They should plan to submit their documentation to their advisor no later than October 1 for Spring semester and March for Fall semester.