Study breaks, grace periods and extensions
Choose the process according to what is happening, not simply because you need a later date. Discuss difficulties with your DoS early.
| Your situation | Process | Main form |
|---|---|---|
| Taking an ordinary holiday | Holidays and annual leave | DoS approval; visa absence form where applicable |
| Unable to work on research because of significant circumstances | Taking a study break — registration clock stops | RD7; RD7b if cumulative breaks exceed 12 months |
| Near standard end, need writing-up time and have/are close to sufficient data | Grace period — normally 12 months with conditions/fee | RD19, with cohort exceptions |
| Exceptional circumstances require time beyond maximum registration | Extending maximum registration | RD10 |
| Circumstances affect post-examination amendments | Extending a corrections deadline | RD18 |
| Still able to study but need a different regular commitment | Changing full-time or part-time study | RD8, if eligible |
A study break assumes you are not working on the research. If you need to continue at a slower pace, §5.4 allows discussion of an exceptional early extension request instead. Registration cannot be suspended after it has ended.
Start extension discussions early
Regulation D5.5 requires an RD10 application at least three months before the maximum end date, while framework passages discuss later applications. Obtain written timetable advice rather than waiting. See Source differences and clarifications.
For each process check Tuition fees and sponsorship, Stipends during study breaks, Visa-related absence and changes and your confirmed end dates. An application is not the same as an approval.
Sources: Framework §§4.1, 5.4–5.6, pp. 37–39, 56–60; D5.3–D5.5. Framework · Regulations.