Return to Study | The University of Sunderland

Taking a break

If you want to take break in your studies, you must submit a Leave of Absence form as soon as you are no longer able to engage with your course. This will make sure that your student record is managed, and you do not pay more fees than you need to.

You must take the following steps:

Contact your Programme Leader or Personal Academic Tutor who can discuss with you your best options,

Read the Tuition Fee and Refund Policy to understand the tuition fees you may owe when you seek to return to study,

Make an appointment with a Student Success adviser who can advise you on support you can expect from the University during your break in studies,

Talk to the Wellbeing Team if illness is the main reason why you need to take a break.

Contact Student Finance to get advice on how your break in studies will impact your fees or maintenance.’

What is a Leave of Absence

A Leave of Absence is an agreed break in your learning usually due to personal or health reasons. Whilst you are on a leave of absence you cannot engage with your studies but can still access Student Support Services, which includes the Wellbeing team, Disability Services, Student Financial Guidance and the Student Union.

Support

Student Support Services have range of services to help you get re-engage with your studies following your Leave of Absence.

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Return to Study Forms

Here you will find links to all the forms, policies and supporting documentation around the Leave of Absence process.

This includes the Return to Study form that you will need to complete at the end of your leave of absence period.

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Frequently Asked Questions

You may have some questions around what a break in studies means for you, whether that's personal, academic or financial.

Here you will find a selection of answers to frequently asked questions around the leave of absence and return to study process.

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