Please read the complete UBC Senate policy in the Calendar, or the summary of the policy in On-Leave Status in the Policies and Procedures section of this website.
Senate policy: https://senate.ubc.ca/files/2021/08/V-302.4-Graduate-Student-Leaves-of-Absence.pdf
Form: Request for Leave of Absence
Students who find it necessary to interrupt their graduate studies may request a leave of absence. A leave of absence must be requested before the date on which the leave will start. Retroactive leaves will only be approved in highly exceptional cases
Important: International graduate students should review Taking time away from studies and consult International Student Advising if needed before pursuing a Leave of Absence to discuss the impact on their ability to stay in Canada, study permit and future post-graduation plans.
Summary of Leaves of Absence policy
Procedure:
- Read the policy to ensure you are eligible.
- Discuss leave of absence with supervisor and supervisory committee.
- Download and complete the “Request for Leave of Absence” form from Grad Studies website. Attach required documentation.
- Obtain the signatures of supervisor and graduate program advisor indicating their approval.
- Send the form to the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.
Parental Accommodation
Senate policy: V-303: Graduate Student Parental Accommodation Policy
Form: Request for Parental Accommodation
Graduate students with substantial parenting responsibilities for a newborn or newly adopted child under the age of six during their course of study may apply for an eight-week parental accommodation period.
Procedure:
- Read the policy to ensure you are eligible.
- Discuss parental accommodation with supervisor.
- Download and complete the “Request for Parental Accommodation” form from Grad Studies website.
- Obtain the signatures of supervisor and graduate program advisor indicating their approval.
- Send the form to the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.