The College recognizes that students may experience medical or psychological conditions that significantly impair their ability to function successfully or safely in the academic environment. This policy outlines the process for medical withdrawals, supporting student well-being while upholding the academic integrity of the institution.

Medical Withdrawal

A student may request a medical withdrawal from all courses if they experience a medical, psychological, or substance abuse condition that substantially limits their ability to meet academic or community responsibilities.

Request Submission

• The request must be submitted to the Director of Counseling Services, who will review the request, may consult with relevant professionals as needed, and provide a recommendation to the Dean of Students, who will make the final determination. Requests for Medical Withdrawal, including all required documentation, must be submitted by 5 pm on the final day of classes before the double instruction period.

Release of Information

• The student must sign the necessary release of information form (which allows the release of protected information about the student’s condition) with their provider to enable the Director of Counseling Services to verify compliance with treatment recommendations.

Approval and Treatment Plan

• If approved, the student will be advised to seek appropriate medical or psychological treatment. The Director of Counseling Services and the student will develop a plan together outlining the necessary treatment and conditions for readmission.

Financial Review

• The student must meet with the Director of Financial Aid to review financial obligations before finalizing the withdrawal.

Academic Standing

• In accordance with the College’s official withdrawal date, the student will receive a “W” or “WP” in all coursework

Notification

• The Director of Counseling Services will notify the Dean of Students, the Registrar, the Director of Financial Aid, and the Dean of Work of the withdrawal.

Readmission After Medical Withdrawal

A student seeking readmission following a medical withdrawal must provide:

Provider Documentation

• Documentation from a licensed healthcare provider verifying that the student can return to the academic environment and comply with any ongoing treatment recommendations must be submitted to the Office of Counseling Services.

Additional Information

• Additional information may be requested by the Dean of Students or the Director of Counseling Services to assess readiness for return and verify compliance with treatment recommendations.

Decision

• The Dean of Students, in consultation with the Director of Counseling Services, will determine the student’s readmission status based on the student’s demonstrated ability to meet academic and community expectations while maintaining their well-being. Failure to meet re-admission criteria may result in continued withdrawal status.

Appeals

A student may appeal a decision related to medical withdrawal or readmission by submitting a written appeal to the President of the College within 48 business hours of receiving the decision.

The appeal must clearly state the grounds for appeal, which may include:

• Procedural error or inconsistency in the process;
• New information not previously available that may affect the decision; or
• A concern that the decision was unreasonable or not based on all available information.

The President will review the appeal, consult with appropriate staff or faculty as needed, and issue a written decision. The decision of the College President is final.

Confidentiality

All medical and psychological information provided in connection with this policy will be maintained as confidential and handled in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and other applicable privacy laws. The College will provide reasonable accommodations as required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), but reserves the right to take any action necessary to protect student welfare and uphold institutional integrity.