At times, RPI may need to place a student on a leave of absence or withdrawal to support their well-being or to protect the safety and functioning of the campus community. This decision may be made by the Medical Director, the Director of the Counseling Center, and/or the Dean of Students if a student’s situation:
- Poses a risk to their own health or safety,
- Poses a risk to others, or
- Creates a serious disruption to Institute operations, activities, or facilities.
A mandatory leave or withdrawal may be applied in the following cases:
- Financial Reasons: If a student has unpaid balances with the Bursar’s Office and is unable to meet financial obligations, they may be placed on a financial leave of absence. Outstanding balances (including the current semester) must be paid in full before reinstatement.
- Medical or Psychological Reasons: If professional staff determine that it is in the best interest of a student’s health and well-being not to attend for the semester, a medical leave of absence will be applied.
- Emergency Removal: If the Dean of Students determines that an immediate removal from campus is necessary, a mandatory leave of absence will be recorded to reflect this action.
- Disciplinary Sanctions: If a student is suspended or expelled through the conduct process, a mandatory separation is recorded with the effective date of the sanction.
- Non-Registration: If a student does not register for classes during a given semester, they will be placed on an administrative leave of absence for that term.
Appeals
Students will receive written notification if a mandatory leave or withdrawal is applied. A student may submit a written appeal to the Vice Provost of Student Experience within five (5) business days of receiving notice.
Being placed on a mandatory leave or withdrawal is not considered a disciplinary action and does not trigger the rights of a disciplinary hearing. However, if the situation also involves behavior that violates Institute policy, the student may still face separate disciplinary action.
