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Frequently Asked Questions

FERPA/Releases of Information

What is Northwestern's policy concerning student rights of access to personal records?

The Dean of Students Office/Student Assistance and Support Services follows that institution's policy concerning student rights of access to personal educational records in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

You can find detailed information regarding FERPA here.

Student education records are open to University officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the information contained in the records.

Generally, records can be released, or access given, to third parties (i.e. anyone not a university official), only with the written consent of the student (there are health and safety exceptions to this).

Financial Support/Assistance

How do I inquire about Financial AId?

Students who receive financial aid should contact the Financial Aid office at 847-491-7400 to inquire about additional financial assistance.  If you have experienced a change in your life circumstance (such as parental loss, loss of a job by a parent, divorce, or unexpected expenses such as medical bills), Financial Aid offers a special circumstances review to see if you might qualify for additional aid

Financial Aid also offers short term loans to assist students in emergency situations.
 
Students who are experiencing food insecurity can access a variety of university resources listed here.
 
Students who need assistance with medical bills or determining insurance coverage for medical or mental health concerns can contact patient support services.

Hospitalization

What do I do if I am psychiatrically hospitalized while enrolled as a student at Northwestern? 

SASS works with students that are hospitalized for mental health concerns in order to ensure that a treatment plan is in place upon discharge from the hospital, and that ongoing care and support can be provided. Please notify the Dean of Students Office if you are hospitalized.

We will provide notification to the Dean of your school to share that you have a legitimate excuse for missing class, and request flexibility. Once we receive notification from you, we will send a post-hospitalization letter detailing next steps. 

What happens once I am discharged from the hospital? 

Per the instructions in the post-hospitalization letter, you will need to schedule an appointment with CAPS to discuss discharge instructions, and a meeting with the Dean of Students office to discuss case management needs and support. 

Do I need to notify the Dean of Students Office for Physical health-related hospitalizations? 

You can notify the Dean of Students Office about a hospitalization for physical health-related issue, but it is not required. The Dean of Students Office can assist in communicating with your academic school to request flexibility for a legitimate issue. You can also follow the Health Service policy for Academic Work Missed For Medical Reasons.

Housing/Residential Services

I have been approved for voluntary Medical Leave of Absence (MLOA). What do I need to know or do regarding my housing?

If a student lives in on-campus housing, they typically are required to vacate your housing within 48 hours of the approval of their MLOA, which includes removal of all of their belongings.  If they have any questions regarding vacating your housing, contact Residential Services.
 
If you live off campus, review your lease and consult with your landlord regarding your housing needs. To receive assistance related to off-campus matters, contact Off-Campus Life.

I have been approved for reinstatement from voluntary medical leave of absence (MLOA) and am planning to return to campus. What do I need to know or do regarding my housing?

If a student plans to live on campus, they should contact Residential Services for next steps.
 
If a student lives off campus, they should consult with their landlord and lease regarding their housing needs. To receive assistance related to off-campus matters, such as looking for off-campus housing, contact Off-Campus Life.
 

Insurance

I have been approved for voluntary medical leave of absence (MLOA). What do I need to know or do regarding my health insurance?

Students who are on a voluntary Medical Leave of Absence (MLOA), are no longer an enrolled student at Northwestern, and this change in status may have implications on their eligibility for Northwestern sponsored health insurance. Please contact the Student Health Insurance (SHI) office and/or your private insurance provider if you have questions and/or need information.

If you need additional assistance beyond SHI and/or your private insurance provider, contact Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Health Service or Student Assistance and Support Services (SASS).

I have been approved for reinstatement from a voluntary medical leave of absence (MLOA) and am planning to return to campus next quarter. What do I need to know or do regarding my health insurance?

If you are on the Northwestern University Student Health Insurance (NU-SHIP) plan you can contact the Student Health Insurance (SHI) office. 

If you are enrolled in a health insurance plan other than the Northwestern University Student Health Insurance Plan (NU-SHIP), speak with your private insurance provider to become educated on your coverage in general and local to the Evanston area. If you need additional assistance beyond your private insurance provider and/or the Student Health Insurance (SHI) office, contact Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Health Service or Student Assistance and Support Services (SASS).

International Students

I have been approved for voluntary Medical Leave of Absence (MLOA). What do I need to know or do regarding my international student status?

When a student is approved for a MLOA, they need to meet with an adviser from the Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISSS) regarding processes and deadlines pertaining to the Reduced Course Load form, the appropriate SEVIS form and t visa status. 

If they are having difficulty finding treatment providers in their location that meet their treatment needs, they can contact Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Health Service or Student Assistance and Support Services (SASS) for assistance.

I have been approved for reinstatement from voluntary medical leave of absence (MLOA) and am planning to return to campus next quarter. What do I need to know or do regarding my international student status?

When a student is approved for reinstatement, they will need to communicate with an adviser from the Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISSS) regarding processes and deadlines pertaining to the necessary SEVIS form, their visa status and any international-student-status-related documentation.

If they are having difficulty finding treatment providers in the Evanston area that meet their treatment needs, they can contact Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Health Service or Student Assistance and Support Services (SASS) for assistance.

Fraternity and Sorority Life

Can a student remain in their fraternity/sorority house while on MLOA?

A student cannot remain in their fraternity/sorority house while on MLOA. Those are designated spaces for actively enrolled students.

How long can a student remain in the fraternity/sorority house after taking a MLOA?

After processing a MLOA, a student who lives in a fraternity/sorority house has 48-hours to move out of the house.

Medical Leave of Absence

What is the purpose of a medical leave of absence (MLOA)?

The purpose of a medical leave of absence (MLOA) is to provide students time away from campus for treatment of a physical or mental health condition that impairs a student's ability to function safely and successfully as a member of our community. 

Are MLOAs Voluntary?

Yes, MLOAs are voluntary. Students are not required to take a MLOA. SASS and Northwestern University encourages students to prioritize their health and well-being, but the decision is ultimately the students to make. 

What are the benefits of MLOA?

Each leave is individualized based on the needs of the student and handled on a case-by-case basis. Students who request and obtain voluntary MLOA during an academic quarter may be eligible for a number of benefits including:

  • Tuition Adjustment or refunds
  • Later course withdraws
  • A coordinated treatment plan
  • For international students, depending upon the circumstances, a MLOA may provide a way to remain in the U.S. for treatment while maintaining legal status.

How long does MLOA last?

MLOAs provide students time away from campus for treatment of a physical or mental health condition that impairs a student's ability to function safely and successfully as a member of our community. Generally, mental health related leaves are a minimum of two quarters and physical health related leaves are typically a minimum of one quarter in length. 

How do I apply for a MLOA?

The process of applying for a medical leave of absence can be found here.
 

 

If granted a Medical Leave of Absence, how long do I have to vacate university housing?

A student will generally be required to vacate university housing within 48 hours of the approval of the leave, which includes removal of all belongings. For information regarding next steps, please contact Residential Services.

Residential Services (Housing Assignments) 2122 Sheridan Road, Suite 150
Residential Services (Residential Life) 2122 Sheridan Road, Suite 150

Can I register for classes at Northwestern or any other institution and count those credits towards my degree, during my Medical Leave?

While on MLOA, a student may not register for classes at Northwestern nor make academic progress until the student has been reinstated by the Dean of Students Office and the Student Affairs hold has been removed.

Students on medical leave are strongly encouraged to consult their academic dean’s office and advisor in advance and have an academic plan in place, to allow registration to occur once the hold is removed.

I am an international student thinking to apply for MLOA. What things should I consider?

International students have specific requirements which are included on the website for the Office of International Student and Scholar Services at the link below. Please communicate with your advisor in the International Office to discuss specific requirements and expectations in relation to your visa status. 
 
Office of International Student and Scholar Services 630 Dartmouth Place
Phone: 847-491-5613
Link to Visa and Compliance Requirements 
International Office email: intoff@northwestern.edu 

 

Can I still use my NET ID/ Student Email while on MLOA?

Depending on the length of a student's medical leave of absence, your NetID may be deactivated in accordance with the NetID expiration policies through Northwestern University Information Technology (NUIT). More information about these timelines are available through NUIT. 

Northwestern University Information Technology (NUIT) 1800 Sherman Ave

I am heavily involved in a number of extracurricular activities. Can I still participate as an active member in these organizations while on leave?

The purpose of a medical leave of absence (MLOA) is to provide a student time away from campus for treatment of a physical or mental health condition that impairs the student’s ability to function safely and successfully at Northwestern University. 

Therefore, during the time of an MLOA, although still a member of the community, a student is not permitted to enroll in or audit Northwestern University courses, participate in intercollegiate athletics, partake in other student organization activities or make academic progress until the student has been reinstated by the Dean of Students Office and the Student Affairs hold has been removed.

Am I still considered a Northwestern student during my Medical Leave?

The purpose of an MLOA is to provide a student time away from campus for treatment of a physical or mental health condition that impairs the student’s ability to function safely and successfully at Northwestern University. 

Therefore, during the time of an MLOA, although still a member of the community, a student is not permitted to enroll in Northwestern University courses, participate in intercollegiate athletics, partake in other student organization activities or make academic progress unless making academic progress is specifically indicated in the student's treatment requirements.

MLOA | Financial Considerations

Financial Aid

For questions regarding Financial Aid (including loans and grants) please contact Financial Aid.
 
Chicago Campus Financial Aid
Phone: 312-503-8722
 
Evanston Graduate Financial Aid
Phone: (847) 491-8950
 
Graduate School (TGS) Funding
Phone: 847-491-5279
 
Undergraduate Financial Aid
Phone: 847-491-7400

I understand that in taking a Medical Leave of Absence, my tuition and fees will be adjusted. What does that actually include?

Housing
Northwestern room charges will generally be prorated dependent on when a leave begins. For questions regarding room charges please contact Residential Services. 
Meal Plans
Northwestern meal plan charges will generally be prorated dependent on when a leave begins. For questions regarding meal plans, please contact Northwestern Dining Services.
Tuition

For undergraduate students, tuition is reset to the start of the quarter in which the leave begins.  For graduate students tuition adjustment or non-adjustment is dependent on a number of factors.  

Heath Service and Student Activity

The Health Services fee is not refunded if a student leaves the University at any time after the start of the year. 
 

Parents & Family

How long is the MLOA? 

Most medical leaves are at least two quarters in length.  Second medical leaves are typically a minimum of one year.  It is important to note that timelines vary and are dependent upon the individual treatment needs of the student.

When will my student be able to return to classes?

Students may return to campus after being approved for reinstatement. More information about the steps and expectations can be found here.

What happens to the money I have already paid for tuition? Can I get a refund?

Undergraduate students who are approved for a Medical Leave of Absence are given a tuition refund to the start of the quarter.  

For graduate students who take a MLOA, it is an individualized process, led by your graduate school, which determines if a tuition refund or a partial refund will be given. Please speak to your academic program for more information.

Can my student take classes while on Medical Leave of Absence (MLOA)?

Students who are on MLOA cannot make academic progress at Northwestern. The purpose of the MLOA is to provide students who are struggling with a medical or mental health condition that impairs the ability to function academically, socially, and/or personally.

Students are given time and space away from academics to allow full engagement in treatment to address the underlying symptoms impacting them. 

How can I learn more about the MLOA process?

You can learn more about the MLOA process by visiting the Dean of Students/Student Assistance and Support Services website or by meeting with an Assistant Dean in Student Assistance and Support Services.

Reinstatement from Medical Leave

Who applies for reinstatement though this process?

If you requested, and were approved for a medical leave through the Northwestern Dean of Students medical leave request process, you would also go through the reinstatement process with us.

Students in the Feinberg School of Medicine, the Kellogg School of Management, the School of Professional Students, and online education students do not follow this process and should contact your academic dean’s office regarding the reinstatement process for your program.

Why do I need to go through a reinstatement process?

The Dean of Students Office/Student Assistance and Support Services requires proof of readiness to return from a MLOA because we want to ensure that you are set up for success upon your return.
Most students who take a MLOA are cleared for reinstatement. However, if you do not participate in adequate treatment related to your health while on a medical leave, you will not be reinstated until this requirement is met. 

You are not required to be “cured” of all illnesses in order to return from a medical leave.  Wellness is an ongoing journey. Many students return from a medical leave and continue treatment in some manner while pursuing their Northwestern education. The goal of the medical leave and reinstatement process is to allow you to be healthy enough to continue your Northwestern education. The Dean of Students Office/Student Assistance and Support Services is eager to support students transitioning back from a medical leave. 

 

If my provider(s) say(s) I am ready, will I automatically be approved for reinstatement?

Information from your provider(s) supporting your return, although important, is not the sole criteria in the reinstatement process. 

How do I apply for Reinstatement from a MLOA?

Congratulations on feeling you are ready to reengage in your studies at Northwestern! In order to apply for reinstatement consideration, you will follow will submit a Reinstatement Request form by the established deadline and follow the four step process.

Please know, applications for reinstatement must be submitted to the Dean of Students office no later than eight weeks for law students and six weeks for all other students before the term in which you wish to start. Applications for reinstatement will NOT be considered after the deadlines.

We are here to assist you through this process. If after reviewing the information provided on our website you have remaining questions, please call the Dean of Students Office. We will be happy to answer your questions and/or direct you to other departments as needed.
The process for reinstatement can be found here.

I missed the reinstatement request deadline. Can I still apply?

The reinstatement request deadline is firm. A student wishing to go through the reinstatement consideration process must submit their Request for Reinstatement form electronically by the established deadline.

Students who miss the deadline will need to consider applying for consideration for a future quarter/semester.

Do I have to complete the entire reinstatement process by the deadline?

Students need to complete the first stage of the reinstatement process, submitting the Request for Reinstatement form by the reinstatement request deadline.  The remainder of the process can be completed after the request deadline.

How will it be determined if I can reinstate at this time?

The Dean of Students (DOS) or his/her designee will make a determination regarding reinstatement based on the recommendation provided by CAPS and/or Health Services. Reinstatement is based on the student's readiness to manage an academic course load and safely function in our community.

The DOS or his/her designee will notify the student and other necessary University offices in writing of the determination, and if approved, whether any conditions will apply. If reinstatement is denied, the student may appeal the determination.

If I am not approved for reinstatement, is there an appeal process?

If reinstatement is denied, the student may appeal the determination to the Dean of Students (or his or her designee) in writing within three (3) business days of the decision. The appeal should be made in writing and should set forth the basis for the appeal.

The Dean of Students shall review the record and any additional information submitted by the student and renders a decision within ten (10) business days of receiving the appeal. The Dean of Students decision shall be final.