Eligibility & FAQs

Understanding your leave options shouldn’t be complicated. Whether you're navigating a personal health issue, caring for a loved one, welcoming a new child, or managing a life event, this section is here to help you determine what you're eligible for and how to get started.

We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about FMLA, DC Paid Family Leave, Short-Term Disability, ADA accommodations, and more—so you can feel confident and informed every step of the way.

Not sure where to begin? Start with our eligibility quiz or browse the FAQs below.

Wondering what leave you’re eligible for? Take our quiz to find out!
FAQs
How do I know if I’m eligible for FMLA leave?

To be eligible for FMLA, you must have:

  • Worked for the University for at least 12 months, and
  • Worked at least 1,250 hours in the past 12 months.
What types of leave are covered under FMLA?

MLA covers:

  • Your own serious health condition
  • Caring for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition
  • Birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child
  • Military exigency or caregiver leave
Is FMLA leave paid?FMLA leave is unpaid. However, you may use accrued paid leave (e.g., sick or vacation time), and you may be eligible for DC Paid Family Leave or Short-Term Disability benefits depending on your situation.
 
What is DC Paid Family Leave (PFL)?

DC PFL provides paid leave for:

  • Parental bonding (up to 12 weeks)
  • Family caregiving (up to 12 weeks)
  • Your own medical condition (up to 12 weeks)
  • Prenatal care (up to 2 weeks)

You must apply through the DC Office of Paid Family Leave within 30 days of the qualifying event.

 What is Short-Term Disability (STD) and how do I apply?

STD provides partial income replacement for non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy. It is administered by MetLife. To apply:

Can I take leave intermittently?Yes. If medically necessary, FMLA leave can be taken in separate blocks of time or on a reduced schedule. You’ll need medical certification to support this request.
What if I need workplace accommodations instead of time off?If you have a disability that affects your ability to perform your job, you may be eligible for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Contact the HR Leave Team to begin the interactive process.
Do I need to provide documentation?Yes. Most leave types require medical certification or supporting documents (e.g., birth certificate, deployment orders). HR will guide you on what’s needed.
Will my job be protected while I’m on leave?FMLA and ADA provide job protection. DC PFL does not guarantee job protection unless you are also covered under FMLA or other applicable laws.

Request Leave

Create a case and a member from our team will follow-up with you. 

RESOURCES

LEAVE OF ABSENCE

REQUEST LEAVE

LEARN MORE

ELIGIBILITY

ELIGIBILITY AND FAQ

LEARN MORE

Two women sitting.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LEAVE

LEARN MORE

employees sitting together and looking at a document

TRAINING AND TOOLS

LEARN MORE