Research program leave

Program leave of absence

Full-time higher degree research (HDR) students are expected to work on their thesis for 48 weeks per year. Students may apply for the following types of leave where circumstances prevent them continuing with their research studies:

• personal leave
• medical leave
• maternity leave

Please note the medical certificates must be original or certified copies and the dates on the certificates must coincide with the leave request period. International students must check their visa conditions.

Only leave periods in excess of one week (for full-time students) or two weeks (for part-time students) can be processed. These periods of leave will alter the expected maximum thesis submission date.

While students are on leave, access to ANU email and ISIS and other systems is retained.

Recreation (annual) leave

In addition to research program leave of absence, candidates may take up to four weeks of recreation leave each 12 months (plus public holidays), pro rata for part-time students. Recreation leave should be arranged through students' academic area, in consultation with their supervisors.

Students are not required to submit an application for recreation leave through Central Administration; however ANU College procedures may require the completion of a recreation leave form. Recreation leave taken will not alter the expected thesis submission date. This leave is not covered by the University's insurance policy.

Other absences

HDR students may be absent from the ANU campus for other reasons which do not change the duration of their candidature or the expected thesis submission date due to:

• undertaking fieldwork
• conference attendance

These absences are considered part of your candidature and you remain enrolled during the absence.  Your College should record details of your approved absences in the Student Administration System.  There are specific responsibilities around fieldwork and you must be familiar with the policies and the training requirements. You should also check the insurance cover applicable to HDR students. Further information on these absences is available at the Fieldwork and Conference attendance sections.

Program leave while on extension of program

If program leave for personal reasons is approved while you are on extension of program, that period of leave will not extend your end date.

Because requests for extension of program must be based on academic reasons beyond your control or unusual personal circumstances, program leave cannot be cited as a reason for needing a further extension. However, if it is necessary to take program leave for medical reasons (relating to you directly) and a supporting acceptable medical certificate is provided, then this period of time may be added to your revised program end date.