Absence

Leave of Absence

Q. What happens when I apply for Leave of Absence?

A. If your leave of absence is approved by your Faculty, UTS International will then assess whether your application for a leave of absence fits the criteria for suspension of study under the National Code 2007. If so, then your leave of absence will be reported to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) as a suspension of study and you will normally be able to maintain your student visa.

Q. Can I stay in Australia while on Leave of Absence?

A. Because your student visa conditions require you to be studying while in Australia, you must normally return home while on leave of absence. If a medical condition prevents you from travelling then you may apply to DIAC to remain in Australia for the period of the leave of absence.

Q. Under what circumstances can I apply for Leave of Absence and maintain the validity of my student visa?

A. Under the National Code 2007, UTS is able to approve leave of absence on compassionate or compelling grounds. These generally refer to circumstances which are beyond your control and which have an impact upon your course progress or wellbeing. Each application for a leave of absence will be assessed on its own merits and must be supported by appropriate documentation.

Q. For how long can I take Leave of Absence without my visa being cancelled?

A. You can continue to hold your visa only if you take a leave of absence for 6 months or less. This applies even if your leave of absence is approved on compassionate or compelling grounds. If you apply for leave of absence for longer than 6 months or you do not return from your leave of absence after 6 months then your visa will normally be cancelled.

Q. What are some examples of compassionate or compelling grounds?

A. Examples of acceptable grounds would include, but are not limited to:

• an extended illness which affects your ability to study;
• bereavement;
• a disaster in your home country requiring your return;
• a traumatic experience which affects your ability to study;
• where UTS is unable to offer you a subject you require to complete your course until the next semester.

Q. What if my reasons for applying for Leave of Absence are not deemed to be compassionate or compelling under the National Code 2007? Can I still take Leave of Absence from my course? What will happen to my visa?

A. Yes, you can take leave of absence as long as your leave of absence is approved by your Faculty. However, if your reasons for taking leave of absence are not deemed to be compassionate or compelling under the National Code 2007 - as assessed by UTS International - then your Confirmation of Enrolment will be cancelled. DIAC will then assess your visa status and may decide to cancel your visa. In this case you will need to apply for a new visa when you wish to return to your studies.

Q. How do I apply for Leave of Absence?

A. You can apply for leave of absence online.

Be sure to include all supporting documentation. If you wish to apply for a leave of absence on compassionate or compelling grounds and for less than 6 months, or if you are unsure of your circumstances, you should discuss your application with UTS International.