Home students
When you join your course, it is generally expected that you will study in consecutive years until the end of your course, provided you meet the rules for progression to each level of study.
However, there are scenarios where you can take a break from your studies for health or personal issues. Some of these scenarios require approval from the University.
You are advised to read the Planned Break in Study section of the Extenuating Circumstances Policy and Procedure for information. Whether your reason for considering a break in your studies relates to extenuating circumstances or not, you must contact a Hallam Help Point immediately for advice. This is because you need to consider all your options and understand the possible implications for your tuition fees and funding (and visa implications if you are an international student).
If, after taking all factors into account, you still wish to take a break from your studies, you must complete a Take a Break form in conjunction with your Student Support Adviser.
Until this form is completed and signed by you and your Student Support Adviser, you will be deemed to be still attending your course and charged fees accordingly.
If you are a care leaver, a student with caring responsibilities or a student estranged from your family you may wish to discuss your situation with a named adviser at one of the Student Services Centres. They will help you to look at all your options and understand the possible implications for your tuition fees and funding.
Student Visa Holders
As a student attending on a student visa you must engage fully with your course, in accordance with the your visa conditions. If you are unable to attend for more than 3 days during term time you must inform the University by requesting an authorised absence.
An absence is an exceptional, temporary period of time when you may be unable to attend scheduled teaching and/or may be away from the University due to exceptional circumstances. These could be because of a personal or family emergency. Please refer to the Extenuating Circumstances Policy and Procedure for the definition of an exceptional (extenuating) circumstance and examples of what does not class as an exceptional circumstance.
If you intend to be absent:
Submit your form to Hallam Help/Research Administrator before you leave, as absences will require approval. All requests will be assessed on an individual basis.
An Authorised Absence is not a complete break in study.
You must continue to engage with your studies as required during a period of absence, including submission of coursework / assessments. Absence is not grounds for an extension to study. If you are unsure if your absence should be recorded as an Authorised Absence or a Break in Study/Suspension, please contact Hallam Help/Research Administrator for guidance.