Course / Medical Underloads
In severe cases of student or family member health that limit, but do not fully impede, academic engagement, a student may petition for a Medical Underload. Normally, a student may only be granted a Medical Underload one time during their undergraduate career, allowing them to make satisfactory academic progress towards their degree. Petitions and supporting documentation are initiated with academic advisors in Academic Services. Requests are reviewed by the Directors of the Brandeis Counseling Center or Health Center and the Executive Council (EXCO) of the Committee on Academic Standing.
Non-medical exceptions are rarely made to the minimum rate of work limits. Students are rarely allowed to be enrolled in fewer than 8 credits.
Students considering a Medical Underload should consult with the Office of Student Financial Services in order to understand the possible financial aid and/or student account implications of a change to the number of enrolled units in a given semester. Changes in load status can affect loan repayment schedules and future access to federal financial aid. Charges are not reduced, or refunds applied, for course loads below the normal rate of work.
International students must consult with their Advisor in the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) before pursuing a medical underload.
Summer course option for students approved for medical underload
Students who have documented medical conditions and who have been approved for a Medical Underload, will have the option to enroll in one summer school class in the following summer at no additional tuition charge. Students will be responsible for room and board charges if they live on campus for the summer term. (For more information about payment options and/or financial aid for summer living expenses, please contact the Office of Student Financial Services at 781-736-3700 or finaid@brandeis.edu.)
Students considering a medical underload should work closely with their academic advisor to ensure careful planning.. The choice of summer school classes is more limited than in the fall and spring terms. While students will be able to earn credits towards the Brandeis Core and/or elective credit, the number of advanced classes that can be counted toward the student’s major may be limited. Therefore, careful academic planning is essential.