When a student needs to be absent from class, whether for a day or an extended period, the right way to handle it is by submitting a leave for school request. This formal communication written by parents or students ensures that the school is informed, attendance records stay accurate, and there are no misunderstandings about the reason for the absence. You can also review our samples of formal letter writing in English to learn the proper structure and tone for such requests.
A leave application for school isn’t just a formality. It reflects courtesy, responsibility, and transparency between parents, students, and school authorities.
What Is a Leave for School?
A leave for school is a written or digital request for time off from attending classes. This may be prepared by:
- Parents (for younger students who can’t write formal letters themselves)
- Students (especially in higher grades or colleges)
The purpose of a school leave application is to notify the school of the absence, request any missed assignments, and provide documentation if required.
Why Writing a Leave Application Matters
Submitting a proper leave application is important for:
- Keeping certified attendance records updated
- Ensuring the school knows the exact reason for absence
- Making arrangements for homework or missed exams
- Providing proof (like a medical certificate or travel tickets) when necessary
Standard Format for a School Leave Application
While every school may have its own preferred format, most leave for school letters follow this structure:
Element | Details |
Sender Details | Name, address, phone number |
Date | Date of writing the letter |
Recipient Details | Principal’s name, school name, address |
Subject Line | Example: “Leave Application for Medical Reasons” |
Salutation | “Dear [Principal’s Name]” or “Respected Principal” |
Body | Reason for leave, exact dates, request for assignments |
Closing | Statement of thanks, signature, full name, class |
Attachments | Medical certificate, travel ticket, or other proof |
Common Types of Leave in Schools
- Medical Leave – For illness or health treatment
- Sick Leave – Short-term illnesses like fever, flu, cold
- Casual Leave – Minor personal matters
- Half-Day Leave – For arriving late or leaving early due to appointments
- One-Day Leave – For urgent personal work
- Leave for Family Events – Weddings, religious functions, family gatherings
- Vacation Leave – Pre-planned family trips
- Festival Leave – Diwali, Christmas, Eid, etc.
- Emergency Leave – Sudden family emergencies or urgent situations
Sample Leave for School Letters (Parents’ Perspective)
1. Medical Leave
Subject: Medical Leave Request
Dear (Principal’s Name),
Due to a medical issue, my child, (Child’s Name), in (Grade/Class), will be unable to attend school from (Start Date) to (End Date). Several doctor appointments are scheduled during this time.
Kindly grant leave and share any assignments to be completed at home.
Thank you for your understanding.
Regards,
(Your Name)
(Contact Details)
2. Leave for Family Event
Subject: Leave Request for Family Event
Dear (Principal’s Name),
Due to an important family event, I request leave for my child, (Child’s Name), from (Start Date) to (End Date). Please inform us of any assignments they need to complete while away.
Warm regards,
(Your Name)
3. Leave for Personal Reasons
Subject: Request for Leave for Personal Reasons
Dear (Principal’s Name),
For personal reasons, my child, (Child’s Name), will be unable to attend school from (Start Date) to (End Date). We will ensure that all missed work is completed promptly.
Regards,
(Your Name)
Student-Written Leave Applications
Example 1 – Medical Leave
Date: February 17, 2025
Subject: Fever-Related Leave Request
Respected Principal,
I, Rohan Mehta of Class 6A, will be absent from school on August 18 and 19, 2025, due to high fever. The doctor has advised complete rest.
Sincerely,
Rohan Mehta
Class 6A
Example 2 – Family Function
Date: February 17, 2025
Subject: Leave Request for Family Event
Respected Principal,
I, Ananya Sharma of Class 8B, request leave from February 18 to 20, 2025, as I will be traveling to Jaipur for a family function. I will complete all assignments after returning.
Sincerely,
Ananya Sharma
Class 8B
Example 3 – Travel Leave
Date: February 17, 2025
Subject: Leave Request Due to Travel
Respected Principal,
From February 18 to 22, 2025, I, Rahul Sen of Class 5B, will be traveling with my family to Shimla. Kindly grant me leave for these dates.
Sincerely,
Rahul Sen
Class 5B
Writing the Perfect Leave for School Letter
- Be concise – Stick to relevant details only
- Use a respectful tone – Always address the principal formally
- State exact dates – Avoid vague time frames
- Request assignments – Shows responsibility
- Attach proof – Medical certificate or travel ticket if applicable
- Proofread – Avoid spelling or grammatical errors
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to mention dates clearly
- Using informal language
- Providing unclear or weak reasons
- Missing contact details
- Not following the school’s guidelines (some require prior notice)
Conclusion
Whether you are requesting leave for a medical emergency in Mumbai, attending a wedding in Jaipur, or taking a short trip to Shimla, a leave for school request should always be polite, clear, and correctly formatted.
By following the templates above and using modern formats like email you can ensure smooth communication with your school while also demonstrating responsibility and respect.
FAQs: Leave for School
Q1: Can parents send an email instead of a letter?
Most schools accept emails, but some still require printed copies for records.
Q2: Is a medical certificate mandatory?
Usually required for absences longer than 3 days.
Q3: Can students get leave for competitions?
Yes, if supporting documents for the event are provided.