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Medical Leave of Absence and Reinstatement

When students experience a mental health condition that interferes significantly with their ability to function safely and successfully at NU, they may request a Medical Leave of Absence (MLOA). A Medical Leave of Absence allows students time away from the university for treatment and recovery, with the goal of restoring health and functioning.

The sections below contain information for students considering an MLOA, students seeking reinstatement from an MLOA, and treatment providers of students currently on an MLOA.

Please see below for instructions for both Evanston and Chicago-based academic programs.

Considering and Requesting an MLOA

If considering an MLOA, students should consult directly with the appropriate office in their academic program (see below for more information pertaining to your respective program). CAPS also recommends that students and their families check their student’s insurance carrier to ensure health insurance coverage continues while on leave. If you are in treatment, CAPS recommends you discuss requesting an MLOA with your provider.

Please check below to see how to start the MLOA process based on your academic program.

If you are a student at Pritzker School of Law

If you are a student at Pritzker School of Law, information on MLOA/Reinstatement procedures, including how to request an MLOA and deadlines for your request, can be found on the Law School's Leaves of Absence webpage. Please note that Chicago CAPS will assist Law students in the MLOA process.

CAPS Authorization for Disclosure of Confidential Information with Law School Student Services

If you are a student at Feinberg School of Medicine (E.g. MD, PA, DPT, etc.)

If you are a student at Feinberg School of Medicine (e.g. MD, PA, DPT, etc.), please contact your program for information about MLOA/Reinstatement requests, procedures, and deadlines. CAPS does not process MLOAs/Reinstatements for students who are in these programs.

For all other students

If you are not a student at one of the above schools, more information on MLOA/Reinstatement procedures, including how to request an MLOA and deadlines for your request, can be found on the Student Affairs and Support Services webpage.

Reinstatement from MLOA

If CAPS was involved in your MLOA procedure, there are a few steps to complete for students seeking reinstatement. Please check below to see how to start the MLOA Reinstatement process based on your academic program. 

If you are a student at Pritzker School of Law

If you are a student at Pritzker School of Law and currently on an MLOA, more information on MLOA/Reinstatement procedures, including how to request your reinstatement and deadlines for your request, can be found on the Law School's Leaves of Absence webpage.

For all other students

More information on MLOA Reinstatements, including how to apply for reinstatement and deadlines for your request, is available on SASS’ Reinstatement Request Process page.