Doctoral Researchers: Time Away from Study
Student immigration permission can accommodate a deferral/cessation of studies of up to 60 days provided the course is still expected to be completed before your visa expiry date.
Care needs to be taken if there has been any other previous deferral or delay/extension to the study pattern in case the cumulative effect means your research is no longer expected to be completed in time.
If further time is needed beyond 60 days, Doctoral Researchers might also consider taking annual leave which should be agreed with their supervisor in advance.
Otherwise, if an interruption of studies cannot be accommodated by the above you can expect the University will have to withdraw sponsorship of your visa which can then lead to UKVI shortening (known as ‘cancelling’) any remaining visa permission to at least 60 days remaining. For further information on visa cancellation, see the webpage linked below.
You will be advised to leave the UK and, prior to returning, you will need to ask the Doctoral College Office for a new CAS to apply for new visa permission to resume studies in the UK. You should not try to travel back using your old visa permission/BRP even if you have not received any information from UKVI about the cancellation of your visa.
Last Updated: 16th September 2022