The University of Dayton recognizes that students may need to interrupt their enrollment for a period of time due to life events, personal matters, or medical reasons. Withdrawing from the university or failing to register for classes functions in conjunction with the enrollment and registration to remain in "Active Status." 

To remain in active status, students must either register for coursework during every semester (excluding summer, unless in an accelerated track) or request Graduate Enrollment Certification. 

Graduate Enrollment Certification ensures the student remains active in UD systems. Course availability can change, and students should always consult with their program before withdrawing or interrupting their enrollment. Regardless of any leave taken, students are required to complete their degrees within the program time limits.

Procedures for Requesting Leave or Withdrawal 

Students who wish to withdraw or leave the University at any point before the start of a semester, during a semester, or at the conclusion of any semester must complete the Student Withdrawal/Leave Form (SWLF). In instances where a student is unable to complete this form independently, a university official may submit it on the student's behalf, provided verbal or written consent is granted.

The effective date of the withdrawal is the date the form is submitted. Ceasing attendance does not constitute an official withdrawal. Consequently, students who fail to submit the SWLF will receive the final grades earned in all registered courses. Academic consequences are determined by the timing of the request. All withdrawals are subject to the University’s academic calendar,  "W" deadline, cancellation, and refund policy. The University may adjust the effective date if it verifies the student never attended, potentially allowing for a refund adjustment without a formal appeal. However, students remain responsible for any outstanding financial obligations. 

Students who indicate that they are leaving the university due to medical circumstances are encouraged to complete a Voluntary Medical Withdrawal (VMW) instead of the SWLF. If a student only completes a VMW and the request is declined but the request was received prior to the last date to withdraw with a “W,” the student will still be withdrawn without academic penalty (W grades) as of the date that the VMW request was received.

Returning to the University

The process for returning to the University is determined by the student's status.

Active Status: Students are designated as “Active” if they were enrolled in the previous semester (excluding summer, unless in an accelerated track), obtained an approved withdrawal, or Graduate Student Enrollment Certification. These students may proceed with registration because of their active status.

Inactive Status: Students are considered inactive if they were not enrolled in the previous semester (excluding summer, unless in an accelerated track), and did not secure an approved withdrawal or Graduate Student Enrollment Certification. Failure to maintain an active status results in the loss of access to university systems and requires the student to complete the Intent to Return Form. To begin the return process, contact UDGradschool@udayton.edu.