A Leave of Absence is a pause with a plan to return. A Withdrawal is a full exit with no confirmed return date.

Leave of Absence Policy

A Leave of Absence is a temporary, approved break from enrollment with the intention of returning to the college to resume studies.

Students with a permanent MICA record of enrollment are eligible to take a leave of absence (LOA). Students may take a leave of absence for up to three years under the same degree requirements (two years for MPS or MA/MBA students). In order to be considered eligible for a leave of absence, a student must be in good academic standing and must file a formal written LOA agreement specifying the anticipated return date. Failure to return after an approved LOA will result in administrative withdrawal, with an effective date retroactive to the LOA start date. 

To request a Leave of Absence, students must complete the Leave of Absence Request Form and submit it to the Office of Enrollment Services. All required signatures must be included. Additional documentation may be required depending on the reason for the leave.

Withdrawal Policy

A Withdrawal is a complete separation from the college, either voluntarily or administratively, with no immediate intent to return.

Students intending to permanently leave the college must submit a Withdrawal Form to the Office of Enrollment Services. The effective date of withdrawal is the student's last date of attendance. 

Return From Leave of Absence Policy

Students on an approved Leave of Absence (LOA) must notify the College of their intent to return by submitting an Application for Readmission to the Office of Enrollment Services, ideally at least 30 days before the start of the term they plan to resume studies.

Return requests are reviewed to ensure students are eligible to re-enroll and that any necessary steps—such as academic advising, registration, financial aid, or international documentation—are complete. Program-specific considerations or additional documentation may apply. The College supports a smooth return process and reviews all requests individually.