Yes, a leave of absence is required. If an international student is unable to attend a course or activity due to illness or other reasons, he or she should apply for a written leave of absence in advance. The procedure is to first request a leave of absence from your college counselor and then report it to the administrator of the Overseas Students Office after it has been approved. Students who are absent from class without permission or late leave will be treated as absentees. Students who are absent from class will be given criticism, education or disciplinary action depending on the severity of the case.