I want to take a break from my program, how do I proceed?
We understand that sometimes life calls for a pause, and that’s okay. If you need to take a break from your studies, you can request a Leave of Absence.
Here’s how it works:
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Step: Fill out this form to officially request your leave.
- Ideally, you should submit your request several weeks before you want to start your leave. However, in cases of emergency or hardship, you may be able to submit a late request.
- If applicable, attach any relevant documents to support your request, such as medical certificates or legal papers.
- Breaks are typically approved for 3 or 6 months.
- After 6 months, your leave can be extended following a check-in conversation.
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Step: Meet with your Program Director
Before approval, you’ll meet with your Program Director to discuss:
- Why you want to take a break
- Your plans for returning and continuing your studies
- This conversation helps us understand your situation and support you better.
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Step: Internal Review: Our Registration Team will review your request and the outcome of your Program Director meeting. They’ll follow up with any questions or next steps.
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Step: Once your leave is approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email that includes:
- Your expected return date
- Payment implications based on your model
- Your tuition payments may be paused depending on your payment model.
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Step: Three weeks before your expected return date, you should notify your program director directly, and attend a Learner support office hour (see the office hours page of the handbook) to discuss either:
- Rejoining the program: Your upcoming challenges and scheduling.
- Extending your pause: Reasoning behind the extension, and expected future return date
Please note:
- A €200 admin fee applies if your break exceeds 3 months.
- No ECTS credits are awarded during a leave of absence.
- A leave of absence is not permitted in your first semester. If you can’t start as planned, you’ll need to defer to the next intake.