Going Back to School Resignation Letter Example

When you're resigning from a job to go back to school, it's always a good idea to have a meeting to inform your boss. Many, but not all, employers request two weeks' notice before one resigns.

Following up this meeting with a letter formalizes your resignation and the date of your departure. Sending an email message or a letter is also appropriate if you're working remotely and don't have the opportunity to personally inform your boss that you are leaving.

What to Include in the Letter

Your letter should include the last date that you will be working. You don't necessarily need to give a reason for your departure in a resignation letter, but it's fine to share the fact that you're going back to school. Providing appropriate notice will leave you on good terms with your employer, and will also ensure that they will provide you with a good reference that will help your future employment prospects. That's especially true when you're quitting for a good reason like continuing your education.

Also, take the time to thank your manager for the opportunities and support you were given while employed. If you have time to assist with the transition as the company hires someone to replace you, mention this availability as well.

Your Boss Could Be a Valuable Networking Resource in the Future

If you are returning to school in order to gain new skills to advance in your current profession, keep in mind that your boss, if satisfied with your work and impressed by your professionalism, may eventually become a valuable networking resource for you in a future job search. Not only may they provide a positive reference, but they may also – if you maintain contact with them – alert you to future career opportunities with either their company or another organization.

For this reason, the tone you use and the gratitude you express in your letter of resignation is crucial. You should never use a letter of resignation to air grievances or express criticism that will cause you to leave on a bad note. You don’t want to give your boss or manager reason to speak poorly of you to other potential employers. If you're sending an email to resign, put your name and "resignation" in the subject of the message, and include your contact information in your signature instead of at the top of the letter.

Going Back to School Resignation Letter Example

The following is a resignation letter example for an employee leaving a job and returning to school. Download the resignation letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Sending an Email Resignation

When you are sending your resignation letter by email include the reason you are writing in the subject line of your message.