What happens academically if a student needs to take a leave of absence?

During a leave of absence, a student usually cannot take courses in the program and earn new credits, while credits earned before the leave are generally retained. Graduation may be delayed if required courses or course sequences cannot be taken after the student returns. The permitted leave period, return timing, and treatment of the student’s academic year vary by university, faculty, and program, so the academic regulations or student affairs office should be consulted.