Taking a Leave of Absence (LOA)
Students are eligible to take six (6) to twelve (12) months 'Leave of Absence' (LOA). However, consideration for a LOA is dependent on conditions outlined below.
Students must ensure they:
- Have read the following information
- Understand outcomes are dependent on the course, and timing of a LOA application
- Apply for approval to ensure the University is aware of the break from study if approved (failure to do so (if you simply do not re-enrol) will result in the enrolment lapsing and the student will not be able to re-enrol upon return).
New students (in their first session)
New students who have not completed at least one (1) session of study are not eligible to take a LOA. However, if it is prior to the sessions Census date, students can withdraw from subjects (through SOLS) and request to defer the offer.
International students should refer to the refund information page for conditions on requesting a refund of first session fees.
Domestic undergraduate students
In second session or later
Domestic undergraduate students are entitled to apply for up to 12 months LOA and on some occasions, are considered for periods longer than 12 months (special circumstances). If a student has not previously taken 12 months leave, an application can be submitted through SOLS. Simply:
- Select ‘Student Forms’ from the left hand menu; and
- Select the application for leave of absence.
Who has a previous 12 month application approved (through SOLS)
Domestic undergraduate students who have already taken 12 months leave (application approved through SOLS) and wish to request special permission for additional leave, a Leave of Absence - 12 months leave already taken form must be completed and provided to their Faculty (below) for consideration.
It is important to note, applications must be completed by the last day to enrol/add subjects with Head of School approval for the session in which the leave is being sought. Please refer to the Key dates page for deadlines. Further information can also be found in the Course Rules Policy.
Domestic postgraduate OR international students (in second session or later)
International students must complete the Leave of absence - international student application form, and seek approval from the relevant Faculty (below). International students with a student visa must remain enrolled, and attend all classes, until a formal response from the University is received, i.e., an approved or denied leave of absence.
Postgraduate domestic students must complete the Leave of absence - postgraduate domestic application form, and seek approval from the relevant Faculty (below).
It is important to note, applications must be completed by the last day to enrol/add subjects with Head of School approval for the session in which the leave is being sought. Please refer to the page for deadlines. Further information can also be found in the Course Rules Policy.
Higher Degree Research (HDR) candidates
HDR candidates please visit the HDR Leave of Absence page to find out information about the process for HDR candidates and to access the LOA application form which HDR candidates should complete.