International Students
 
  1. Home
  2. International Students
  3. Student route visas
  4. Taking absence from your programme
 
 

Taking Leave or Absence from Your Programme (Student Visa Holders)

If you hold a Student visa, the University must confirm to UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) that you are actively engaged with your studies. This is done through attendance, engagement monitoring, and required check-ins.

Because of this, you must get University approval for any absence of 5 days or more during term time (outside University holidays).

Failure to request approval may affect your visa and could lead to withdrawal of Student visa sponsorship.

 
 

When do I need authorised absence?

You must request authorised absence if you will be away for 5 days or more, including if you are:

  • Absent due to illness or personal reasons (in or outside the UK)
  • Undertaking research or fieldwork outside the UK
  • Taking part in an exchange programme outside the UK
  • On maternity leave
  • Not in the UK due to a placement or internship that is part of your programme

How to request authorised absence

  • Contact your School Office directly
  • Provide the reason for your absence and your expected return date
  • Your request will be reviewed by the Visa & International Support Team but it must first be approved by your school

What happens if my absence is not approved?

Repeated or serious non-attendance can affect:

  • Your academic progress
  • Professional accreditation or fitness to practise
  • Visa extensions or future sponsorship

In serious cases, this may lead to academic action or withdrawal from study.

Managing your return

  • Before you return, the Visa & International Support Team will contact you
  • If you need a longer absence you must contact your school office for approval
  • Your request will be reviewed by the Visa & International Support Team but it must first be approved by your school 

How absence length affects your visa

Absence of 5–59 days (Authorised Leave)

  • Your absence is recorded by the University
  • UKVI is not informed
  • You can return to the UK using your current Student visa

Absence of 60 days or more (Suspended Study)

  • UKVI will be informed
  • Student visa sponsorship will be withdrawn
  • You must leave the UK
  • You will need a new CAS and new Student visa to return

Returning for reassessment only

If you are returning only to complete reassessments, you may be eligible for a Student Visitor visa (up to 6 months).

This option has restrictions - please seek advice from the Visa and International Support Team for advice.

Deciding not to return

If you decide not to continue your studies:

  • UKVI will be informed
  • Your Student visa sponsorship will be withdrawn
  • Your academic outcome will be confirmed by your School

Maternity leave

  • The University can sponsor maternity suspension of up to 60 days
  • Medical evidence may be required
  • You must stay in contact with your School during this time

Maternity absence of 60 days or more:

  • Student visa sponsorship will be withdrawn
  • UKVI will issue a visa curtailment

Need advice?

Visa & International Support Team