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 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. If the student is eligible to appeal the involuntary leave or withdrawal, an appeal process will be included in the written notification.
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.
