UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School has announced the launch of a new Graduate Student Parental Leave Policy, providing increased support for graduate students who are welcoming a new child into their families. The policy, which took effect on July 1, 2025, applies to all degree-seeking Penn State graduate students at any Penn State campus, including students in professional, research, master’s and doctoral programs.
Recognizing the challenges of balancing rigorous academic endeavors with the responsibilities of new parenthood, the policy allows eligible students to take up to six consecutive weeks of parental leave within 120 calendar days following the birth, legal adoption or placement of a child. This leave is available to both birthing and non-birthing parents. Students may choose when to take the leave within the designated window, and are expected to notify their program head at least 30 days in advance if the leave is foreseeable.
The policy also includes key academic protections. Students returning from leave must be able to return at the same academic standing they held prior to their leave. In addition, students may not be penalized for missing deadlines due to pregnancy or childbirth.
“This policy reflects our belief that students shouldn’t have to choose between their academic goals and the important life decision to grow their families,” said Levon T. Esters, vice provost for graduate education and dean of the Fox Graduate School. “We’re committed to creating an environment where students feel supported — not just in the classroom or the lab, but in all aspects of their lives.”
Full details can be found in the Graduate Student Parental Leave Policy, which outlines eligibility, procedures, and expectations for graduate programs and students.