Taking a Leave of Absence for an Internship (Professional Development)
Per the Undergraduate Leave of Absence Policy, a Leave of Absence (LOA) may be granted for professional development purposes, such as completing an internship.
Important Considerations
We strongly encourage students to carefully consider the implications of taking a Leave of Absence (LOA), as it would result in the loss of your student status during the LOA. This means you would not be considered a registered McGill student for that term.
As a result, taking a LOA may:
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Delay your graduation
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Impact future academic or professional opportunities
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Have immigration-related consequences
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Restrict access to certain student services, resources, or protections normally available to registered students
Taking a LOA will:
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Affect your eligibility for summer internship funding, as awards are only released if all eligibility criteria are met (see Undergraduate Student Eligibility for Award Disbursement)
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Mean that your internship cannot be recognized by the University (e.g., no official documentation or institutional validation tied to student status)
Before You Apply
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Review the Undergraduate Leave of Absence eligibility requirements on the Arts OASIS website.
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Discuss your options with an Arts OASIS Faculty Advisor: Refer to this link to make an appointment with a faculty advisor.
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International students: Contact International Student Services regarding how the Leave of Absence may impact your student status.
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If you are considering taking a LOA for professional development: You must email jade.perraudlebouter [at] mcgill.ca outlining your situation and reasons.
How to Apply
Once advised, submit your request via the form listed here: https://www.mcgill.ca/oasis/academic/withdrawals-leave-absence