Leave of Absence
If you need a break from your studies due to compassionate or compelling circumstances, you can apply for a Leave of Absence and return to your course at a later date.
A Leave of Absence (Intermission) is an approved break from study and is available on the basis of compassionate circumstances to international student visa holders who have commenced their studies in Australia. It can be for an entire study period (e.g. a semester or term) or for the remainder of the current study period if it has already commenced. Please be aware of implications if you take leave after Census date.
You can apply for a Leave of Absence on the grounds of compassionate circumstances, such as serious illness or death of a family member. You can also apply in the case of compelling circumstances such as something that is beyond your control for which you can provide evidence. Free and confidential wellbeing support is available to all La Trobe students.
While on a Leave of Absence, you can remain in Australia and you are permitted to work. However each case is different, and we recommend that you contact the Department of Home Affairs for advice relating to your personal circumstances. Please refer to the Enrolment Procedure for more information. Note that the maximum duration of Leave allowable is generally one year.
Apply for a Leave of Absence
To apply for a Leave of Absence, you must complete a Leave of Absence Application form, and provide supporting documentation including a personal statement that outlines your reasons for requesting a Leave of Absence. Your application will be assessed by the International Operations & Compliance team.
You will be notified of the outcome via your student email address generally within ten working days, unless your application requires additional School approval.
If your application is approved, your current Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) will be cancelled, and you will need to apply for a new CoE for the semester or term in which you intend to recommence your study.
Important information
- Discussion with a lecturer or a course coordinator does not mean that you have officially notified the University of your intention to apply for a Leave of Absence.
- A Leave of Absence application will not be approved if any fees are owed to the University.
- Initial enquiries involving possible Leave of Absence for research and higher degree students and your entitlements should be made directly to the Graduate Research School.
- All applications for a Leave of Absence for research and higher degree students, must be submitted via the GRS Candidature Forms. These applications will be assessed by the International Operations & Compliance team, who will subsequently communicate with the Graduate Research School as required.
La Trobe will notify you via your student email that your approved Leave of Absence has been reported to the Department of Home Affairs.
You will need to apply for a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) before you return to your studies and ensure your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy is valid for the duration of your visa.
According to the Department of Home Affairs, your course is considered out of session while you are on approved leave.
Visa compliance
It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the conditions of your visa. You can find all the information you need on the Department of Home Affairs website.