Guidance for Postgraduate Research students who may need to interrupt their studies.
An Interruption of Study stops the clock on your research degree candidature. Any period of time approved as an interruption will be added on to your current candidature dates and you will be provided with updated ‘end of minimum candidature’ and ‘latest thesis submission’ dates, as appropriate. During the period of interruption, no tuition fees are payable. However, please note that if you are in receipt of a stipend from the University, stipend payments may be suspended during any interruption of studies. You should seek clarification from your funder.
Normally, an interruption of study should be applied for in advance of your anticipated time away from the University. However, the University recognises that in some cases this may not be possible, therefore, if you will be applying for a retrospective interruption, you should contact your Graduate School for advice on whether this is possible and any potential implications. This is particularly important if you are a Student Visa holder and/or in receipt of a studentship. Interruptions normally apply if you are unable to study continuously for more than one month, however, it is possible to approve an interruption of studies for a shorter period, where needed. You should contact your Graduate School if you require any further information.
All applications for an interruption of study should be submitted through the PGR Code of Practice System and be supported by any relevant documentation and will be considered on a case by case basis by the PG Deans.
Further information on interruption of studies is available on the Student Progress website.
Last reviewed: 31.07.2025