An Interruption of Studies (IoS) is a period away from study. This advice applies to students who are studying on undergraduate or postgraduate taught courses.
For postgraduate research students, guidance can be found in the PGR Code of Practice.
Contents
- When can I request an Interruption of Studies?
- How long does an Interruption of Studies last?
- How can I request an Interruption of Studies?
- Will I still be registered as a student while on an Interruption of Studies?
- Will I be liable for Council Tax during an Interruption of Studies?
- What happens during an Interruption of Studies?
- Will I be able to apply for welfare benefits during an Interruption of Studies?
- Considerations before taking an Interruption of Studies
When can I request an Interruption of Studies?
IoS is covered in the University's Policy on Reasonable Adjustments & Supportive Arrangements for Students. This policy applies to students in circumstances which may include, but are not limited to, those who:
- have responsibilities as a Carer;
- have parental responsibilities;
- are pregnant or within a maternity period or supporting a partner with pregnancy and maternity; and students who expect to become parents;
- are recognised by UofG as dual career athletes;
- are engaged in defence service;
- have been affected by humanitarian or political crises within their home country;
- have been affected by a time-limited injury or medical condition, with an actual or expected duration of less than 12 months, or a personal/family situation affecting their studies.
How long does an Interruption of Studies last?
An IoS lasts for a minimum of one semester. Students taking an IoS will be expected to return at the beginning of Semester 1 or Semester 2 depending on when they took the original interruption.
The maximum duration of an IoS is one academic year.
How can I request an Interruption of Studies?
You should complete an Interruption of Studies application. A meeting will then be arranged with staff from your School to discuss your request and to look at other options that may be helpful in supporting you.
Will I still be registered as a student while on an Interruption of Studies?
Yes, you’ll maintain your status as a registered student. This means you’ll still be able to access most University services, such as Counselling & Wellbeing appointments for students who are already registered with that service. You’ll also be expected to keep in touch with the University during your IoS via your student email account.
Will I be liable for Council Tax during an Interruption of Studies?
Assuming you were a full-time student or a part-time student studying 63 credits or more - No, as you have not completed, abandonded or withdrawn from your course you will continue to be exempt from Council Tax and should apply for Council Tax exemption in the normal way during the interruption.
What happens during an Interruption of Studies?
Your School should agree dates with you for checking in during your IoS. The last of these check-ins should be scheduled before you return to your studies to make plans for this and to arrange appropriate support.
If you wish to return from your IoS early, you can discuss this with your Adviser of Studies/Advising Team.
Will I be able to apply for welfare benefits during an Interruption of Studies?
Benefits eligibility during an IoS will depend on a range of factors and will be linked to your specific circumstances. If you wish to explore this, you can speak to one of the advisers at the SRC Advice Centre.
Considerations before taking an Interruption of Studies
If you're thinking about taking an IoS, the following are some useful things to keep in mind:
Financial and welfare considerations
Depending on how you are funding your degree and the reason for your IoS, your maintenance payments may stop during this period. You may also be liable for fees during your IoS.
Scholarships will usually stop during an IoS, so it’s important to check with your scholarship provider first.
While you will continue to be able to access most University services during an IoS, some may be limited or change during this time. For example, one-to-one appointments with the Disability Service will normally be suspended during an IoS.
Your School should provide you with links to appropriate sources of advice so you can make an informed decision (e.g., SRC Advice Centre, Student Services Enquiry Team, Registry, Counselling & Wellbeing Services, Disability Service and other services).
Visa implications
There may be visa implications for international students when taking an IoS. Those students should seek advice from the International Student Support Team and Visa Compliance before doing so.
Accommodation
If you have a contract with University Halls of Residence or with a private accommodation provider, you will continue to be able to remain in your accommodation during your IoS.
Some students may wish to leave their term-time accommodation during an IoS. If you’re intending to do this, you should speak with an adviser at the SRC first. We can advise you on your options on leaving both student or privately rented accommodation.
Maximum duration of studies
The maximum duration of studies is the number of years you have to complete your degree. If taking an IoS could mean that you exceed your maximum duration of studies, it’s important that you are aware of this. The maximum duration of studies varies depending on your degree and you should check this with your School.
In some cases, students can be given permission to exceed their maximum duration of studies by the Clerk of Senate, but this should be agreed before taking an IoS.