Temporary suspension of studies

In some situations it may be in your best interests to suspend your studies temporarily. It sometimes helps to take time out to deal with issues that are stopping you studying effectively – such as health or personal issues – and return to University at an agreed date. A temporary suspension of studies (TSS) is when a student stops studying at the University for an extended period of time, usually no longer than one academic year. You can apply for it on the basis of medical, personal or financial reasons, or for military service.

Sometimes a TSS may be enforced by the University in cases where this is considered necessary. In exceptional cases, a suspension may also be granted for industrial placements or a semester/year abroad, where these are not a formal part of the study programme, if it can be clearly shown that it is directly related or beneficial to your programme of study.

For postgraduate taught students completing a dissertation, a suspension of studies starting within six weeks of the submission deadline will not normally be permitted.

Firstly, you should read the Policy on Student Temporary Suspension of Studies. 

You should then talk through your intention to apply for a TSS with your personal tutor or an appropriate member of University staff to see if it applies in your situation and what your options might be.  

It is essential that you seek advice to find out what impact a TSS will have on your own situation – for example your academic performance, financial situation and your student or immigration status.

You apply for a TSS through Student Self Service. On the Student menu, under Programme & Course, click the Temporary Suspension of Studies link.  This will allow you to make an application, explain why you are applying for a TSS and upload any evidence.

This short video will explain the process.
 

Returning to your studies after a break can be daunting. This checklist will help you make sure you are ready to come back and help you have a smooth transition: 

• Funding: make sure your funding provider (SAAS, Student Finance) is aware of your plans. If you are planning on returning to your studies in September, you will need to apply for funding in May/June. 
• Enrolment: make sure you enrol for the year. This is done through the Student Self-Service. If you need help, please contact student-services-uk@hw.ac.uk. 
• Registering for your courses: This is also done through the Student Self-Service.