Educational Leave Policy HR-26-006

Policy Number: HR 006 

Effective Date: 2/27/26 

Last Revised/Approved Date: 2/27/26 

 
Approved By: President 

Responsible Office/Unit: Office of Human Resources (in collaboration with Academic Affairs and Finance, as applicable) 

 
Public / Private: Internal (Published on the Employee Portal and communicated to all employees) 

1. Purpose 

The purpose of this policy is to support professional growth and workforce development by providing eligible employees the opportunity to pursue educational programs that enhance their skills and contribute to the mission and strategic objectives of Life University. 

2. Scope 

This policy applies to benefits-eligible staff and administrators. Faculty educational leave is governed by separate academic policies unless otherwise specified. 

3. Policy Statement 

Life University may grant educational leave to eligible employees pursuing degrees, certifications, or formal coursework that is reasonably related to their current role or anticipated future contributions to the University. 

4. Definitions 

Educational Leave: 
An approved period away from regular work duties to pursue formal education or training. 

Educational Leave Agreement: 
A written agreement outlining leave duration, pay status, benefits eligibility, and any return-of-service commitments. 

Return-of-Service Requirement: 
A commitment to remain employed with Life University for a specified period following completion of educational leave, when applicable. 

5. Eligibility 

To be considered for educational leave, employees must: 

• Have completed at least twelve (12) months of continuous service. 

• Be in good standing (not on active corrective action). 

• Demonstrate that the educational program supports institutional or departmental goals. 

• Receive supervisor and Human Resources approval. 

6. Procedures 

Educational leave is not an entitlement and is subject to approval based on: 

• Business necessity 

• Budgetary considerations 

• Operational coverage 

• Employee performance standing 

Educational leave may be approved as: 

• Unpaid leave 

• Partially paid leave 

• Reduced schedule or flexible work arrangement 

Approval of educational leave does not guarantee continued compensation, benefits, or job placement unless explicitly stated in the Educational Leave Agreement. 

6.1 Request Process 

1. Employee submits a written request to their supervisor and Human Resources at least sixty (60) days prior to the proposed start date, including: 

• Program description 

• Duration of leave 

• Anticipated completion date 

• Explanation of relevance to current or future role 

2. Supervisor provides written recommendation. 

3. Human Resources reviews and issues a decision in conjunction with the employees supervisor. 

4. If approved, an Educational Leave Agreement is completed prior to leave commencement. 

6.2 Duration 

Educational leave is typically approved for up to twelve (12) months. Extensions require additional review and approval. 

6.3 Pay and Benefits 

• Educational leave is generally unpaid unless otherwise approved. 

• Benefits continuation, PTO accrual, and seniority status will be outlined in the Educational Leave Agreement and governed by applicable plan rules. 

6.4 Return-of-Service 

When Life University provides financial support or paid leave, employees may be required to commit to a return-of-service period, typically ranging from twelve (12) to twenty-four (24) months. Failure to fulfill this commitment may result in repayment of a prorated amount. 

6.5 Return to Work 

Employees must return to active employment on the agreed-upon date. Failure to return may be treated as a voluntary resignation. 

Reinstatement will normally be to the employee’s prior position or a comparable role, subject to operational needs. 

6.6 Misrepresentation 

Providing inaccurate or misleading information related to educational leave may result in corrective action, up to and including termination of employment. 

Responsibilities 

Employees 

Employees requesting educational leave are responsible for: 

• Submitting a written request with supporting documentation. 

• Demonstrating how the program of study aligns with current or future institutional needs. 

• Maintaining satisfactory performance prior to and during the leave period. 

• Complying with all terms of the approved Educational Leave Agreement. 

• Returning to work as scheduled following approved leave. 

Supervisors/Managers 

Supervisors are responsible for: 

• Reviewing educational leave requests for operational impact. 

• Providing written recommendations to Human Resources. 

• Supporting coverage planning during the employee’s absence. 

Human Resources 

Human Resources is responsible for: 

• Administering this policy. 

• Reviewing eligibility and documentation. 

• Issuing Educational Leave Agreements. 

• Tracking leave status and return-to-work commitments. 

• Coordinating benefits and employment status during leave. 

7. Review Cycle 

This policy will be reviewed annually by Human Resources or more frequently as needed. 

9. Contact Information 

Office of Human Resources 
Life University