Graduate assistants at UF are eligible for leave of absence under the following circumstances:
- Disability, illness, jury duty, required U.S. military service, or family emergencies.
- University closures on state holidays or during declared emergencies (unless duties are required).
- Professional licensing exams or non-departmental professional development events.
Types of Leave
Personal Time with Pay
Graduate assistants receive up to 5 days per semester, credited at the start. Days are used in 1-day increments for various circumstances.
Not cumulative; managed at the department level.
Paid Family Leave of Absence
Eligible for 8 weeks within a 12-month period for reasons including child birth/adoption, family member’s health, or own serious health condition.
- Applies after the second semester of employment.
- Requires 30 days’ notice (or 24 hours in emergencies).
- Continued health coverage; tuition waiver maintained.
Research Leave of Absence
Graduate assistants can request unpaid leave for up to a year for academic research, subject to university approval. Employee status is maintained.
Important Information
GAU Contract Article 8 contains detailed information about GA leaves of absence.
Contact Information
UFHR Leave Administration
- Phone: (352) 392-2477
- Email: benefits@ufl.edu