A Leave of Absence is any period of time where a student needs time away from studies.

All Leave of Absence applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis in line with the National Code 2007. This means that a request will only be granted in limited compassionate or compelling circumstances. These circumstances are generally those that the student cannot control but has been impacted by.

Circumstances where a student may be excused from attending classes include, but are not limited to:

• serious illness or injury
• bereavement of a close family member such as parents or grandparents, spouse or child
• major political upheaval or natural disaster in the home country requiring emergency travel and this has impacted on the student's studies
• a traumatic experience which could include involvement in, or witnessing, a serious accident; or witnessing or being the victim of a serious crime

How to apply

Submit a Leave of Absence form to your faculty with certified or original copies of any of the relevant supporting documents. Include either:

• a medical certificate
• a death certificate
• other supporting documents

Applications for Leave of Absence must be approved by your faculty and Victoria University International.

Visa alert

The University will notify the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) that you have been granted a Leave of Absence. Please note that a Leave of Absence may affect your student visa. To talk to DIAC for advice, phone on 131 881.

If your Leave of Absence is approved for 28 days or longer, DIAC requires you to leave Australia (unless exceptional circumstances exist). As an international student you are required to:

• remain offshore for the duration of your leave (if it is longer than 28 days).
• return no earlier than approximately one month prior to the commencement of your next semester.