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Academic Policy

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Academic Advising is responsible for implementing undergraduate academic policy, including reviewing academic progress, facilitating the return to Stanford after time away, and adjudicating requests for exceptions.  The following pages offer clarification on these policies, as well as guidance on the procedures and forms related to them.

Not all university policies are addressed here. For a complete and official description of Stanford’s academic policies, please refer to the Stanford Bulletin.

Labyrinth at Windhover contemplative center. Credit:  Linda A. Cicero / Stanford News Service

Academic Progress

Find information about minimum academic progress requirements for all Stanford undergraduates and coterminal students, as well as details about academic probation and similar statuses.

Requests for Exceptions

Students who believe they have compelling extenuating circumstances may be eligible to request an exception to academic policy in consultation with their Academic Advisor. Find more information on requests for exceptions and necessary forms here.

Late winter's evening light cast its shadows on the arches on the Main Quad Credit: Linda A. Cicero / Stanford News Service

Leaves of Absence

Students may wish to take time off from Stanford for a variety of reasons.  Learn more about the Leave of Absence process here.

View of the north east corner of the Inner Quad with Hoover Tower in the background on a sunny day with students and bicycles. Credit: Linda A. Cicero / Stanford News Service

Returning to Stanford

Depending on their circumstances, students returning to Stanford after time away may need to take specific steps for reinstatement. Find more details about the return process here.