**Policy Authority: University Registrar
Effective Date: April 1, 2024
Authorized Leave of Absence Policy (LOA) for International Students (Authorized Leave)
Scope
This policy outlines the guidelines for a Leave of Absence (LOA) from Cape Breton University (CBU) for international students. For additional information on what constitutes an authorized leave from studies, please refer to the IRCC Information on Authorized Leave from Study. Students must consider both CBU’s registration requirements and degree progression alongside immigration considerations.
Definitions
Authorized Leave of Absence: A university-approved one-term period during which students may suspend and later resume enrollment and academic activities within their program of study. An authorized leave can be granted for a maximum of 150 calendar days.
International Student: a foreign national, who is legally authorized to study in Canada on a temporary basis.
Study Permit: a written authorization, issued by an IRCC officer, permitting a foreign national to engage in academic, professional, vocational, or other education- or training-related activities in Canada.
Designated Learning Institution: A school that admits international students. A letter of acceptance from a DLI is essential for obtaining a Canadian Study Permit.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide information about an Authorized Leave of Absence from Cape Breton University. All international students contemplating taking a leave of absence must consult with and International Student Advisor prior to applying for a leave. Students who are granted such a leave will have “authorized leave of absence” recorded on the Student’s Record.
All students considering an Authorized Leave of Absence (LOA) for an academic term must submit a formal request Click Here! Select Option 13. Requests received are assessed on a case-by-case basis and must be approved by the Registrar’s Office.
Authorized Leaves
Authorized leaves of absence shall be considered for any exceptional circumstances that hinder a student’s ability to study or to remain compliant with IRCC requirements. Approval of the Request for Authorized Leave will be recorded on the student’s electronic record and retained for immigration and mandatory reporting purposes. A leave of absence may be granted to undergraduate students for reasons related to:
- maternity or parenting
- personal or family health
- required military service
- family emergency
- other
Eligibility
- Have completed a minimum of one academic term of studies. (e.g., Fall and Winter)
- Be in good academic standing. Students who are on suspension or have been refused further registration are not eligible.
- Students who are experiencing serious health, personal or family issues; issues related to childbirth or childcare; military service.
- Be in good financial standing
- An Authorized Leave of Absence will not be approved for newly admitted (first year or transfer) students who have not yet begu