Leaves of absence are only granted under extenuating circumstances to students who have not yet been admitted to candidacy and who are in good standing.  Leaves are usually allowed for a period of one semester to one calendar year.

Leaves of absence will not be granted for a total of more than three years. To request such a leave, the student must send a letter to the Vice Dean of the Wharton School’s Doctoral Programs. It should include the reason for requesting the leave, the time period sought, and the student’s plans for returning to the University to complete the requirements for the degree. Before a leave is granted, it must be approved by the Department Coordinator in the student’s concentration or program as well as by the Vice Dean. Time spent on an officially approved leave of absence is not counted in the eight-year time limit on degree completion.