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This page provides a set of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about interruptions. If you still have questions after reviewing these, please Log an enquiry via askUCL, our student enquiry system.

What is an Interruption of Study?

Interrupting your studies means taking a temporary break from your studies. The break is usually for the remainder of the academic year or a full calendar year and most often is needed for health-related, financial or other personal / work-related reasons. Throughout your interruption, you will not be enrolled or actively participating in courses at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË.ÌýÌý

How do I initiate the interruption of study process?

If you are considering an interruption, please review the checklist on our before you make a decision webpage to help you consider some important factors.Ìý

If you then wish to proceed, you will need to apply for an interruption: visit our how to apply and things to do before you leave webpage to find out how to submit your application.ÌýÌý

What is the approval process for my interruption application?

1. Once you have submitted your interruption application, your Department will contact you to arrange a meeting to talk about your interruption and make a Return to Study Plan.ÌýÌý
2. After your meeting your Department will consider your application. In some cases they will also refer your application to your Faculty for review.ÌýÌý
3. You will then be notified of the decision to your UCL email address. If your application is approved, the notification will include the formal Date of Interruption and Date of Return.

Why can’t I provide an interruption start date that is in the past?

Interruptions of Study must be applied for in advance, so they cannot have a start date in the past. If you have been unable to engage with tuition or assessment for reasons beyond your control, you can submit a case for Extenuating Circumstances.

Why is the date of return defaulted on my application formÌý(for Taught student applications only)?

The Default Return Date is one year from the start date of your interruption of study period. This is to ensure that you return to your studies by the end of the academic year.Ìý
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If you return at the Default Return Date you will incur no additional tuition fees, other than those resulting from inflation, for the remainder of the academic session. You have the option to change this if you wish to return at an earlier date. Ìý
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Your Faculty Tutor may permit you to return before the Default Return Date, either to Repeat Tuition for Academic Reasons or, on the recommendation of the EC Panel, to complete a Deferral with or without Tuition, for the affected modules only. The Return Date should be set at the latest date which allows you to engage with the affected module(s).

What should I do if I want to apply for a further period of interruption?

For Taught students: Interruptions cannot be extended. If you want to interrupt for another year, you will need to submit a new category 2 Interruption Application. If you do not submit the application and do not re-enrol following your current period of interruption, your record may be closed.Ìý

For PGR students: contact a member of your Department who will advise on the most suitable approach for your circumstances.Ìý

What if I change my mind about any details of the interruption after it has been approved?

You should contact your Department or Faculty in the first instance to discuss this.

What if I change my mind about my Return to Study decision?

You should contact your Department or Faculty in the first instance to discuss this.

I am a Student visa holder - will I be required to leave the UK during the interruption?

If you hold a Student visa and your interruption period of absence will exceed 60 days, you are obliged to leave the UK for the duration of your interruption.ÌýÌý

UCL is required to inform the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) of any changes to your student status and withdraw sponsorship of your visa. Once your interruption has been processed, you will receive an email to confirm that sponsorship has been withdrawn and it is advised that you should leave the UK within 60 days of UCL’s report to UKVI.

My interruption has not yet been approved, am I still expected to attend classes or attempt assessment?

Unless a Deferral has been approved via the EC process, you must complete any assessments due before your Date of Interruption. The marks from such assessments will be carried forward. Refer to section 6.2 in the academic manual for more information.