Sabbatical

## Sabbatical

A sabbatical is an extended leave of absence, usually offered to employees after a long period of service (5–7 years). It originated in academia but is increasingly offered by tech companies and professional firms.

### Common Structures

- **Duration**: 4–12 weeks (corporate), 1 semester–1 year (academic).
- **Pay**: Fully paid, partially paid, or unpaid depending on employer.
- **Eligibility**: After 5–7 years of continuous service.
- **Frequency**: Every 5–7 years.

### Notable Sabbatical Policies

| Company | Duration | Pay | Eligibility |
|---------|---------|-----|-----------|
| Intel | 8 weeks | Paid | Every 7 years |
| Deloitte | 3–6 months | Unpaid/40% | After 6 years |
| Adobe | 4 weeks | Paid | Every 5 years |
| REI | Up to 8 weeks | Partial | Long tenure |

### Benefits

Sabbaticals reduce burnout, improve retention, develop backup leadership capabilities, and refresh long-tenured employees. They are increasingly seen as a talent retention tool.