When can I apply for a leave of absence?
Students enrolled in a full degree programme at the University of Southern Denmark may apply for a leave of absence from their study programme according to the rules below.
To be eligible for a leave of absence students must have completed the first academic year of a bachelor or master study programme and have passed the tests scheduled according to the curriculum during the first academic year of the study programme, unless the reason stated in the leave application is pregnancy, adoption or military call-up.
In the event of unusual circumstances, e.g. death in the family, illness or other serious complications, the University may grant an exemption to the above.
Leave of absence is not granted with retrospective force and it cannot be terminated with retrospective force.
Leave of absence from the University of Southern Denmark is granted for up to one year at a time and a student is allowed to take a maximum leave of absence of three years from his/her study programme (two years from the bachelor programme and one year from the master programme).
Consequences of taking a leave of absence
During the leave period, the student may not participate in classes or examinations nor submit assignments for assessment. Exemptions from this will not be granted. The result of the examination or of written homework may be stated at the beginning of a leave period.
The student may not participate in classes or examinations if the leave period is discontinued in mid-semester.
Participation in classes or examination is only permitted if the leave of absence has been discontinued before the start of a semester.
Only relevant for Non-EU/EEA citizens
If you are granted a leave of absence, your residence permit will automatically be cancelled. If there are special circumstances such as e.g. maternity leave you can apply to the Danish Immigration Service for an exemption, so you can keep your residence permit while on leave from the University. Cases are treated individually.
For more information on leave of absence, please contact the relevant student advisor.