The Administrative Board evaluates requests for exceptions to policy (also called petitions).
Petitions are typically related to academic policies and enrollment. Some examples of petitions are asking for a leave of absence, changing classes after the deadline, or managing time conflicts for exams.
Administrative Board (Ad Board) decisions will take into account your educational and personal interests as well as the mission of the College.
About Petitions
Justification
All petitions must provide justification for their request before being considered by the Administrative Board. Petitions submitted to the Board include, but are not limited to, the following:
Leaves of Absence
Exam Makeups
Late Course Registration
Bracketing or Unbracketing Courses
Adding or Dropping a Course Late
Withdrawing from a Course Late
Returning to the College
Extensions of Time for Written Work
Exclusion from a Course
Procedures
Petitions start with a student’s request and having a conversation with their Resident Dean. During this conversation, you will discuss reasons for your petition, applicable College rules, and circumstances that may impact your petition’s approval.
Responses
The Administrative Board considers each petition and issues the following responses.
Approved
Your request will be permitted and recorded as part of your student record. Your Resident Dean will contact you if further action is required.
Denied
Your request has not been approved and your requested action is not permitted. Your Resident Dean will contact you about next steps.
Bracketed
The decision is postponed pending receipt of additional information or documentation. Your Resident Dean will contact you about the information you need to provide. Once you provide the required information, the Ad Board will review your petition at the next meeting.
If an Administrative Board decision changes your status in the College, such as granting a leave of absence, your Resident Dean is obligated to inform your parents or guardians.
Reconsiderations
If you believe you have sufficient grounds for reconsideration, you can consult with your Resident Dean or the Secretary of the Administrative Board.
All reconsiderations must be filed with the Secretary of the Administrative Board, within one week of the decision, unless, within that week, the Secretary grants an extension of time. Ordinarily, students will have only one opportunity to request a reconsideration.
Students with disabilities: In keeping with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a student with a disability who believes that the Administrative Board did not properly consider any claims pertaining to their disability may seek further review from Director of University Disability Resources, including in disciplinary case decisions. For information on grievance procedures, visit University Disability Resources website.
Leaves of Absence
A leave of absence is a decision to take time away from your coursework at the College due to personal circumstances. These circumstances can be numerous and diverse, ranging from concerns about family matters, opportunities for personal and professional development, or the need to spend time addressing a health concern. Ultimately, the College wants you to make the decision that is best for you and will support you so you can return to campus and succeed in your remaining time at Harvard.
Considering a Leave?
First, consult with your Allston-Burr Resident Dean or your Resident Dean of First-Year Students. They can offer support, help you think through the decision, explain the process for taking a leave, and direct you to resources throughout your experience. Certain circumstances may require your Resident Dean to follow up with you, particularly medical concerns.
Taking a leave means taking a pause – it does not mean dropping out. If you decide to take a leave of absence during your time at Harvard, you are fully expected to return and graduate from the College. Many students who have taken leaves of absence have found them to be refreshing and important for their ongoing success at the College.