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Leave of absence

A Leave of Absence is when a student temporarily withdraws from their studies on medical or personal grounds.

For undergraduates and taught postgraduates Leaves of Absence can normally be requested for one or two semesters.  Only in exceptional circumstances will a Leave of Absence be granted for more than two consecutive years in total.  If an undergraduate or taught postgraduate student is absent from a module for three or more weeks consecutively they must either take Leave of Absence or withdraw from their studies, otherwise their studies may be terminated.

For research postgraduates, leave is granted on an as-needed basis for periods longer than one month, with typical requests being for no more than two to three calendar months, but with longer periods granted in properly justified circumstances.

If you are considering requesting a Leave of Absence you should discuss the matter with your Adviser of Studies (undergraduate) or Supervisor (postgraduate) in the first instance. You should arrange to do this as early as possible as there may be alternative options open to you that would not require a Leave of Absence. If you do decide you wish to request a Leave of Absence you must contact the appropriate Pro Dean (undergraduate or postgraduate) who will be able to offer guidance on requesting Leave of Absence and explain what, if any, evidence is required. Undergraduate students should also meet with and Adviser in Student Services to discuss their options and the implications of requesting a Leave of Absence.

You should be aware that there are potential financial implications in relation to fees, loan and / or maintenance grants when you take a leave of absence from your studies part of the way through an academic year. You should therefore ensure you contact the Money Adviser in Student Services to obtain early advice on the final implications of your decision.

International students considering taking a Leave of Absence should be aware that such action may have significant visa implications and should seek advice from the International Student Adviser in Student Services in the first instance.

See also

• Evening Degree students
• Withdrawal from studies