Suspensions and extensions of study for postgraduate research students

Where circumstances or events occur which adversely impact on a research student's progress, the University may grant a period of suspension or extension of study. This may also happen during the referral period.

For further information on the approach to suspensions and extensions due to Covid-19, please refer to updated policies on the postgraduate researchers policies page . If you cannot find an answer to your specific query, please contact your Graduate School who will be happy to assist you.

In many cases lost time can be made up during the student's candidature but where this is not possible because of the serious, disruptive nature of the situation a period of suspension or extension may be a possible option. For international students, staff should be aware of the possible impact on the student's visa and direct them to seek advice from the International Student Office. There may also be implications in relation to funding bodies.

The Policy and guidance on suspensions and extensions of study for postgraduate research students (PDF) provides definitions of "suspension" and "extension" and the types of circumstances in which a suspension or extension might be approved.

Students who wish to request a suspension or extension of their studies should complete a Change Request via GRAD.  

Further information

Further information on absences, suspensions and extensions to study is available from the For Students page.