Procedures: Academic Leaves

FGS Academic Leave Provisions for Graduate Students

There are two petitions that are used for a number of different types of leaves, requiring different documentation, depending on the type of leave.  Information on all Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) leaves and appeals can be found here: FGS Leaves and Appeals.

The FGS Academic Petition Form

Used for medical, compassionate, and professional graduate student leaves. You can find the form here: Academic Petition Form.

These leaves can be up to three terms. There is no funding or benefits attached to these leaves (see collective agreement-based leaves for pay and benefits). Academic leaves can only be taken term-by-term, whereas collective agreement-based leaves are more flexible.

If it is a medical leave, the FGS Attending Physician Statement is to be used for supporting medical documentation.

There is no current standard type of documentation for compassionate and professional leaves.

Documentation is submitted to the member’s academic program. Then, it goes to FGS for approval.

The FGS Leave of Absence Form

Used for Elective Leave (any reason a member wishes), Maternity, and Parental Leave. There is no funding or benefits attached to these leaves (see collective agreement-based leaves for pay and benefits). You find the form here: Academic Leave of Absence Form.

Maternity, parental, and care-giving leaves can be up to three terms.

Documentation required is an Estimated Due Date (EDD) letter from the primary healthcare provider (midwife or doctor). These leaves can be approved by the GPD at the program level.