(34 CFR 668.22(a))
For a student in a standard or nonstandard-term program (excluding subscription-based programs), the student is considered withdrawn if the student ceases attendance and is not scheduled to begin another course within the same payment period or period of enrollment.
If a student is scheduled to begin another course within the same payment period or period of enrollment, the student is not considered withdrawn unless the student fails to begin attendance in that course.
If a student ceases attendance and is not scheduled to begin a future course within the same payment period or period of enrollment, the institution may allow the student to provide written confirmation of intent to attend a later course within the same payment period or period of enrollment.
If the student does not provide written confirmation of intent to attend a future course, the institution will treat the student as withdrawn and will begin the Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) process.