Modified Academic Plan for New Parents

Typically applies for: Graduate students who want to stay enrolled with academic flexibility after becoming parents

Graduate students at Northeastern University who become parents may be eligible for a Modified Academic Plan (Parental Modification), which allows them to remain registered as full-time students while receiving academic flexibility during the adjustment to parenthood. This policy recognizes that both parents may need support during this significant life transition.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be full-time, registered graduate student in good standing at Northeastern University
  • Must have recently given birth, have partner who gave birth, or adopted a child
  • Available within one year after birth or adoption
  • Both birthing parents and partners are eligible

What You Receive1

  • Up to 12 weeks of academic flexibility
  • Modified deadlines for course assignments and examinations
  • Flexible teaching and research responsibilities
  • Remain registered as full-time student throughout modification period

1 The remainder of this policy applies only to students who are not pursuing programs within the School of Law. For students in the School of Law, see the section “Modified Academic Plans for Students in the School of Law.

Application Process

Timeline (4 months early when possible)

Apply at least 4 months before anticipated due/adoption date when possible

Gather Documentation

Obtain letter from physician/healthcare provider with anticipated arrival date, or adoption documentation

International Students

Consult with Office of Global Services (OGS) to determine visa impact before applying – F-1/J-1 students must remain compliant

Application Process

Students enrolled in master’s and professional doctorate programs complete the request for a MAP form HERE. Students enrolled in PhD programs complete the request for a MAP form HERE

Review Process

Every effort will be made to acknowledge requests within 3 business days, and to communicate decisions to students within 3 weeks

During Your Modification

  • Remain enrolled and maintain full-time student status
  • Work with DAS and faculty on modified academic requirements
  • If requirements extend beyond term end, follow Incomplete Grade policy
  • Extensions beyond 30 days require Request to Waive University Policies
  • Academic appointments confirmed separately by administrators
  • Specific provisions vary based on program and university responsibilities

Alternative Options

  • Medical Leave: Available for major medical conditions that preclude class attendance
  • Emergency Leave: Facilitated by We Care for sudden circumstances
  • Personal Leave: Available for general circumstances (see Academic Catalog)
  • Office for University Equity and Compliance: Resources and support information

Important Timing

  • Can be taken any time within one year surrounding birth or adoption
  • Apply at least 4 months in advance when possible
  • DAS acknowledgment within 3 business days
  • Decision communicated within 3 weeks
  • International students must consult OGS before applying

Special Considerations

  • International Students (F-1/J-1): Must maintain compliance with federal regulations
  • Canadian Campus Students: Must meet Study Permit conditions per IRCC
  • Multiple Children: Additional 4 weeks per additional child born/adopted
  • Academic Appointments: Confirmation separate from modification approval
  • Program Variations: Specific provisions vary by program and responsibilities

Modified Academic Plans for Students in the School of Law

Due to ABA requirements, parental leave procedures may differ for School of Law students. Students who anticipate giving birth, who have a partner who anticipates giving birth, or who anticipate adopting a child should contact the Associate Dean for Student and Academic Services to discuss available supports, given the student’s specific situation. The Associate Dean will advise the student on course load and scheduling and will discuss the availability of supports such as exam schedule modifications and classroom accommodations. The Associate Dean will consider requests for a modified academic plan incorporating supports on a case-by-case basis. Students may also seek a personal leave of absence, and, in appropriate circumstances, may qualify for a medical leave of absence.

Primary Contact Information

Disability Access Services (DAS)

Phone: (617) 373-2675
Email: DASdocumentation@northeastern.edu
Forms: DAS Request for Parental Modification
DAS Website & Forms

International Students

Office of Global Services (OGS)
Phone: (617) 373-2310
Required consultation before applying
OGS Website