Suspending your studies

When does suspended studies officially start?

Suspension will start from the date of the consultation between you and your programme leader. A suspension will be granted for a maximum of one academic session in the first instance.

Your programme leader will need to complete the suspension of study form on SITS to notify the University of the suspension, to ensure we appropriately manage your student record while you are away from the University. This will also allow us to get back in touch towards the end of your period of suspension to see if you are able to resume your studies.

Please note the following:

• Suspensions can only be backdated in exceptional circumstances
• You are not allowed to engage with assessments or re-assessments during suspension
• When returning from suspension you must recommence your studies at the start of the trimester
• The suspension of study might have financial implications concerning your fees. See the 'Things to consider' section below for more information.

These guidelines are not applicable to you if you are a student studying for the Bachelor of Nursing or Midwifery. You should refer the specific regulation for further guidance.

These guidelines are also not applicable to research students, who should refer to section 5.3 of the Research Degrees Framework.

Before you decide

Before taking any decision to suspend your studies it is really important to make sure you are aware of any knock-on effects this decision may have for you. See the 'Things to consider' section below for more information.

If you are studying at the University and hold a Tier 4 visa please email International Support on internationalsupport@napier.ac.uk before considering suspending your studies.

University Support

Before suspending your studies there is University Support available to help you consider your options. 

University services

Suspended students will still have access to the Counselling and Careers services.

Disability and inclusion

Students with a disability or health condition may be able to access support from the team whilst on suspended studies. The extent of help and support available will depend on the student’s individual circumstances.

Students are not entitled to access Disabled Students’ Allowance, (DSA) funding whilst on suspended studies. Prior to returning to the University after a period of suspended studies, disabled students are advised to contact their Disability Adviser if they have any queries or concerns about their support needs or if any specific support requires setting up in advance of a return to studies. Further information about suspension can be found in section 8.4 of the University's Academic General Regulations (PDF, 267kB).

ENSA Advice

The Edinburgh Napier Students' Association also runs an advice service. To contact ENSA Advice, call 0131 229 8791 or email ensa.advice@napier.ac.uk for an appointment.