If you're a college student, it's evident that you've done at least a little planning for your future—after all, you worked hard in high school to make your applications attractive to several schools. You may or may not have declared a major, but even your choice of college or university probably reflects one of your goals, be it professional aspirations or simply the desire to live in a particular city (or climate).

But no matter how neatly laid out your life is, there's always the chance that some issue will crop up and adjust, disrupt, or even completely destroy your agenda. The ability to withdraw from college for health reasons can be a boon to students who find themselves blown off course.

Common Policies Regarding Medical Withdrawal

Just as all schools' Codes of Conduct are similar but not exactly the same, so too are their policies vis-a-vis formal withdrawal for medical reasons. In general, however, this option allows students to temporarily suspend their status as matriculated college students due to a debilitating health issue without incurring penalties. This issue can be medical or psychological in nature, and schools require documentation from the student's healthcare providers.

There are other requirements that must be met to qualify, as well as stipulations set forth concerning their return to campus. The withdrawal's length will, again, depend on the institution—and the student's prognosis— but generally, they span only a semester or two.

If you are considering this action, consult with your college's handbook or your advisor to get all the facts you need to make an informed decision. It's imperative to understand all aspects of the withdrawal policy and process, lest you suffer some nasty surprises down the line.

When Might a Withdrawal Be a Good Choice?

No matter what circumstances you find yourself in, it's never a good idea to simply stop attending classes and doing coursework. This will lead to failing, and failing, in turn, will make it very difficult to resume your education. You will have to deal with financial aid problems, too. Even if you do have a medical reason for fizzling out like this, it won't make any difference or do you any good after the fact.

Withdrawing might also be a smart idea if you've been trying your hardest to succeed in school, but performing poorly due to a medical issue. Taking the necessary time to heal, recover, or receive treatment is likely preferable to pushing yourself but earning only lackluster grades. And being unable to truly engage with your studies and build a foundation of critical thinking skills will make it that much more difficult to succeed in later semesters.

Lastly, it could be worthwhile to seek a medical withdrawal if you're facing dismissal. Schools require students to maintain satisfactory academic progress; their failure to do so, no matter what the cause, can mean they'll be dismissed or expelled. Should your college grant that request, it effectively leaves the door open for you to return to your studies at some point—without the hassle and uphill battle of trying to get into a program despite a dismissal on your record.

You Need a Doctor—and Maybe an Attorney, Too

Securing a medical withdrawal from college or university isn't always easy or straightforward. That's especially so if you're trying to negotiate a withdrawal in place of a dismissal. So while you will need a doctor to diagnose your condition or illness and sign off on the paperwork, the help of an attorney may also be valuable.

With a record of success negotiating optimal outcomes for all parties in academic disciplinary proceedings, Education Lawyer Joseph D. Lento is uniquely well-positioned to help students with medical withdrawals. He can help secure your future as a scholar despite the challenges you are currently facing.

Learn more about the process and potential pitfalls by contacting his Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm to schedule a consultation. Click here or call 1-888-535-3686 today.