Can students use a leave of absence for study abroad, work, or personal projects?
Depending on the university, students may be able to take a leave of absence for study abroad, employment or an internship, entrepreneurship, or a personal project by completing the required procedure. However, accepted reasons, application timing, whether leave counts toward the maximum enrollment period, fees or registration charges, and effects on scholarships or visas vary by university, faculty, program, and individual circumstances. Check the official academic rules and the relevant student office before making plans.
Key points
- Check your university's rules on how course enrollment and progress toward graduation requirements are handled during a leave.
- Confirm whether credits earned abroad can count toward graduation; a separate exchange or study-abroad program may be more appropriate than a leave of absence.
- Check application deadlines, required documents, return procedures, and costs in advance.
Things to check
- Universities, faculties, and programs may differ in which reasons they accept, including work and personal projects.
- Scholarships, immigration status, and student insurance may not continue during a leave.