What if I Get Called to Active Duty and Can't Finish My Current Semester?

Military Service Interruption Policy

1. Purpose
Wayne State University (WSU) is committed to supporting students who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, including members of the Selected Reserves and National Guard. This policy outlines the rights and options available to students whose academic progress is interrupted due to being called to active duty.

2. Tuition and Fee Reimbursement
Students called to active duty during a semester may request a full reimbursement of tuition and fees. To qualify, students must:

• File an Exception to Enrollment Policy form.
• Submit a copy of their military orders to the Gadson Office of Military & Veterans Academic Excellence (Gadson OMVAE).

For students called to active duty near the end of a semester, it may be in their best interest to complete their coursework rather than withdraw. The university will make every effort to accommodate special arrangements for exams, tests, and assignments whenever feasible. Students may also request an Incomplete (I) grade, allowing them to finish coursework within one year of the term in which the incomplete was granted.

3. Reinstatement of Benefits and Readmission
Under the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) (34 C.F.R. § 668.18), students who must withdraw due to military service have the right to:

• Return to their academic program without penalty.
• Have their prior academic standing restored, including completed coursework and credits.
• Retain the same tuition and fee rates as when they left or be subject to standard tuition policies.
• Notify the university of their intent to return within three years of completing service.

4. Flexible Attendance and Academic Accommodations
Faculty and staff will work with service members to provide reasonable accommodations, which may include:

• Excused absences for military obligations.
• Extended deadlines and alternative coursework arrangements.
• The option to complete coursework remotely, if feasible.

Students are encouraged to communicate with their instructors and Gadson OMVAE as soon as possible to arrange accommodations.

5. Financial Aid and Student Loan Protections

• Federal student loan repayment may be deferred during active duty.
• The university will provide clear information on GI Bill benefits, tuition assistance, and scholarship eligibility.
• Students receiving financial aid should consult the Office of Student Financial Aid to determine the impact of military service on their aid status.

6. Documentation Requirements
Students requesting tuition reimbursement, readmission, or academic accommodations must provide official documentation (e.g., military orders or other proof of active duty).

7. Contact Information
For questions or assistance, students should contact:

• Gadson Office of Military & Veterans Academic Excellence (Gadson OMVAE)
• Office of the Registrar
• Office of Student Financial Aid
• Primary Academic Advisor

Wayne State University is proud to support its military students and remains dedicated to ensuring their academic success while they fulfill their service obligations.

What If I Fail a Course?

The law prohibits payment of VA benefits for a course from which the student withdraws or for courses that will not count toward graduation requirements (e.g., I, W, or Z grades for auditing). However, payments may be allowed if the student can provide evidence of acceptable mitigating circumstances for not completing the course or receiving a credible grade.

Mitigating Circumstances refer to unanticipated, unavoidable events beyond the student's control that prevent them from completing a course successfully. In such cases, the student may not have to return the full amount of the VA benefits received for the course.

Common mitigating circumstances may include:

• A serious injury or illness affecting the student.
• A serious illness or death in the student's immediate family.
• Unforeseen family or financial obligations requiring a change in employment terms or hours.
• Discontinuance of a course by the school.
• Unanticipated active duty military service or training.
• An unavoidable geographical transfer due to employment.
• Unexpected changes in childcare arrangements.

Reasons Not Accepted:

• Withdrawal to avoid a failing grade.
• Dislike of the professor.
• Too many courses attempted.
• Unsubstantiated deployments or joining the military mid-semester.

First Withdrawal Consideration:
For withdrawals on or after June 1, 1989, mitigating circumstances are automatically presumed for the first withdrawal from a course (up to 6 semester hours or equivalent). However, the school must still report the withdrawal.

Restoration of Benefits Based on Mitigating Circumstances

If you are applying for the restoration of benefits due to mitigating circumstances, it is essential to provide the DVA with supporting documentation. This may include:

• A doctor's note
• A hospital bill
• A letter from your employer detailing any employment changes affecting your academic status
• A letter from your academic advisor

We also strongly recommend submitting a Statement of Mitigating Circumstances along with your notification of reductions or terminations.

Even if you do not have all the necessary documentation, do not delay in contacting the OMVAE. You can submit written notification and provide the supporting materials at a later date.