Re-apply during medical leave

Applying to College
1

Hello,

I started university at a top-tier institution Fall 2018 but had to unexpectedly leave due to health problems despite in good academic standing. I was really upset by this decision (although it was ultimately mine) because I know I am prioritizing my health over everything, which was a big sacrifice since I take my academics seriously.

In the meantime, I was wondering if I could apply to another university while on my leave of absence. This isn’t necessarily because I don’t like my school, but because I want to be closer to home and want to find a cheaper school since I’m having problems with financial standing because of my health.

I have several questions:

  1. Would there be a problem that I attended less than a single semester, and got Ws for my first semester (5Ws to be exact). Could I still apply to another university while on leave?

  2. Would I be applying as a freshman or transfer? I was planning on applying as a freshman and still report my Ws (because I’m “ethically obligated”).

  3. I’m also wondering how my leave and Ws will impact my admission to other universities.

  4. Do I have any rights that protect me against discrimination? I have heard of HIPPA, which I know protects me against having my health information leaked without my permission. But I’m wondering about the effect of the Ws.

  5. Would this impact graduate school admissions? Particularly at top-tier institutions (let’s say top 20 US university).

Thank you so much!

2

  1. Yes you can apply elsewhere.

  2. You most likely are a freshman because you haven’t earned any credits, but you need to ask the admisions office at your target U.

  3. This is a U specific thing. You have to ask each place separately.

  4. “I left because of an unexpected health issue. It has been resolved/is under control, and my medical team has released me to return to studies” or something along that line. Your old HS guidance counselor might be able to advise you about appropriate wording if your medical team doesn’t have any ideas.

  5. Grad schools won’t care about a four or five year old medical withdrawal if your health really is better, and you finish your undergrad education with good grades and letter of recommendation.