A Planned Academic Leave (PAL) is a UCLA leave of absence status specifically for students who study abroad on non-UC programs. This helps students avoid readmission paperwork and the UCLA re-admission fee.
A PAL approval ensures that:
- the UCLA Registrar Office is informed of your study abroad,
- you will not be charged UCLA fees for the term(s) you are away,
- and you will receive enrollment passes for the term you return to UCLA.
Undergraduate Students
UCLA undergraduate students who participate on a non-UC study abroad program must register for a Planned Academic Leave (PAL) immediately after being accepted by their program, and no later than 1 month before the start of the UCLA term they will be away.
You will require the following information to register for PAL:
- Non-UC Study Abroad Acceptance Letter
- Passport Copy
- Syllabi or as much available course information of the courses you hope to take abroad
There is no fee to register for PAL. Your PAL request will be reviewed in 3-4 weeks by the UCLA IEO and your College/School. You will receive an email when approved or denied.
Graduate Students
Graduate students should consult with the Graduate Division to determine whether there are requirements when attending a non-UC study abroad program. Notifying the International Education Office is still recommended so we know where and when you are studying abroad.