Taking a break from your study
We understand that circumstances can change, which is why you may want to take a Leave of Absence.
Leave of Absence allows a current student to take a study break for up to 12 months (maximum leave entitlement during their course).
Before you apply
Here are some things to be mindful of before applying to take a leave of absence:
- Some courses require a specific duration of leave due to unit offerings – check the course exception list.
- Leave of Absence is not available in your first study period; however, you may be eligible to apply to defer your studies
Quick tip: International students are only able to take a break due to compelling or compassionate circumstances. Applications are via a Suspension of study (SoS).
To be eligible you must:
- apply before the census date of the intended study period
- be admitted into a Macquarie University course
- have recorded at least one pass, fail or withdrawn grade in your current course
- not be on Academic Pause, or excluded from the University
- not be an international student on a student visa
Apply via eStudent before the last date to enrol.
Returning early from a Leave of Absence
If you want to return early from a Leave of Absence:
- Log into the Service Connect Portal
- Select Services > Enrolment Support tool
- Click through until you can select >
- I already understand my course guide, my enquiry is about a unit enrolment, class registration or technical issue instead
- Select Unit Enrolment >
- I want to change my study load or pause/recommence my studies > Next
- Select >
- I want to return early from a Leave of Absence > Yes to needing support > Next
- Provide relevant details