Graduate School
Maternity Leave for Graduate Assistants
The following information identifies ways a pregnant graduate assistant can access work release during and after pregnancy as needed:
- Request a leave of absence for a full semester. The leave of absence form (see below) must be completed and signed by required approvers. Documentation from a healthcare provider may be required. The student will be reinstated in the graduate assistant (GA) position upon return. The student will not receive a stipend or tuition waiver while on leave. There is no time penalty for the leave period. The student鈥檚 time-to-degree period pauses for the approved leave-of-absence duration, with no negative impact on the student鈥檚 time limit for degree completion.
- Request to work from home. A request for a pregnant graduate assistant to work from home must be made in writing and approved by the Graduate School. Documentation from a healthcare provider may be required. There will be no break in stipend or tuition waiver. The employing unit should clearly document the work expected from the student, and the student must meet those obligations through producing tangible deliverables to the employing unit (i.e., proof that assigned work was completed). A release to perform such work is required from the healthcare provider.
- Request a leave of absence for part of a semester with no work required. The leave of absence form (see below) must be completed and signed by appropriate approvers. Documentation from a healthcare provider may be required. The student will not be paid for missed time, and the tuition waiver will be prorated.
International Students: Please contact the International Student and Scholar Services office at 601.266.4841 to determine eligibility and for additional information.
Classroom accommodations due to pregnancy can be requested by contacting Student Accessibility Services at 601.266.5024.