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Take leave from study

Need time away from study but want to keep your place? Apply for a leave of absence and we'll see you next semester.

If you're thinking about taking leave, speak with us about your enrolment and course progression.

Consider other options first

Make your decision before census date

If you decide to take leave from your studies, make sure to apply before your census date. Otherwise, the units you were enrolled in will be included in your student fees and remain on your academic record.

How to apply for leave

Speak with your program coordinator about your course. They’ll walk you through your options and show you how to update your enrolment.

You may be able to take leave for one semester or one year without losing your place in your course. You can also apply for further leave if there is extenuating circumstances.

Please note that leave isn’t available for all courses, speak with your course coordinator to see if this is an option for you.

To apply for leave log into my Student Centre and select the 'My Forms' tile. Choose the 'Amend your course status' form then complete and submit your application for leave.

If you're studying a Federation Online course, please contact us directly to submit your leave request. 

You’re expected to complete your studies within the duration specified on your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). However, you may be able to take leave from your studies if you have a compassionate or compelling circumstance – a situation that is beyond your control and will impact your course progress.

Circumstances that may be accepted include:

  • illness
  • the death of a close family member
  • major political upheaval or natural disaster in your home country
  • a traumatic experience such as a serious accident or crime
  • pre-requisite course unavailability where there are no other options for enrolment.

To apply for leave log into my Student Centre and select the 'My Forms' tile. Choose the 'Amend your course status' form then complete and submit your application for leave. You’ll need to attach documents that explain why you can’t study right now.