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Medical Withdrawal

Medical-Related Request for Exception (Medical Withdrawal)

Success in the classroom can be affected when a student is experiencing extenuating circumstances in regards to an unforeseen illness and/or mental health crisis. The Dean of Students Office reviews Medical-Related Requests for Exception (also referred to as Medical Withdrawal) to either withdraw or drop with a full tuition refund/record deletion for courses specified within a term.

For any other reason that a student may need a request for exception, including any health issues related to someone other than the student (i.e., taking care of a family member), please refer to the Office of the Registrar to complete the Request for Exception process on their end.

Whether the request is medical or not, we strongly urge you to view all rules and limitations to requesting a Request for Exception

Important Items to Consider before submitting a Medical-Related Request for Exception 

Allowable Timeframe to Submit a Request

Requests must be submitted either during or immediately following the term in question. Requests will not be reviewed after one calendar year from the end of the term in question by the Dean of Students Office. Please refer to Oakland University's important dates. Requests must be submitted before your degree is awarded.

Required Action Items and Documentation Needed Before Submitting Your Request
  1. All Requests for Exception forms must include a student explanation and verifiable medical documentation. Accepted documentation includes: a letter/note from your physician or medical provider on their letterhead indicating the dates you were seen and general nature of your condition is required. The letter/note must be signed by your physician or medical provider and must speak to your ability to be academically successful during the time period in question. Supporting Documentation can be submitted in the request form.
  2. You must speak with the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships before submitting your request. There are possible financial aid implications that may result in requiring you to return all or a portion of your financial aid. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at 120 North Foundation Hall or (248) 370-2550.
  3. Last Date of Attendance is required. Please indicate the approximate last date you attended the course(s) in question.
  4. Consider Other Possible Implications:
    1. Speak with your advisor as the request may impact your future class schedule.
    2. Please ensure you are reviewing all of your options and make an informed decision by visiting the Office of the Registrar’s Drop, Withdraw & Repeat informational page.
    3. If you live on campus, be sure to speak with University Housing and be prepared to move out of your assigned space within 24 hours of withdrawing from school.
Timeline Once a Request is Submitted

Please allow at least two weeks for your request to be reviewed after submission. If more information is required, you will be notified through your Oakland University email address. If you do not respond in a timely manner, your request will be denied.

You will be notified of approval or denial to your Oakland University email address. If approved, the Registrar’s Office will process your withdrawal or tuition refund/record deletion. They can be reached for questions at [email protected] or 248-370-3450.


Submit a Medical-Related Request for Exception

Office of the Dean of Students

Oakland Center, Suite 150
312 Meadow Brook Road
Rochester, MI 48309-4454
(location map)
(248) 370-3352


Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.