Taking a break from your courses

How do I take a break from my studies?

If you want to take time off:

Review UBC's policy on academic leave
Talk to an academic advisor in your program or faculty for program-specific requirements
Check with an ESP to see if taking a break will affect your financial assistance or awards

Graduate students

If you're a graduate student, you'll have to apply for a leave of absence from Graduate and Post-Doctoral Studies (G+PS).

International students

If you're an international student, you have special considerations when taking time off.

Talk to an academic advisor (undergraduate students) or graduate program advisor (graduate students) to discuss your options for taking a break and returning to studies later.
Talk to an International student advisor to discuss your eligibility to stay in or return to Canada during a break and after a break. Be prepared to share details about your immigration documents (e.g., issue and expiration date) and anticipated travel plans.

Implications on your study permit and ability to work

Immigration regulations concerning your study permit may impact your ability to stay in Canada during a break from your studies. In general, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires you to "enroll", remain enrolled until completion of your studies, and actively pursue studies if you want to remain in Canada on a study permit.
UBC is required to report to IRCC on your enrolment twice a year. See UBC's definitions for immigration purposes below.
you will not be eligible to work on campus or off campus with a study permit during a break from your studies.
it may be difficult to extend your study permit from inside Canada during a break from your studies. In some cases, you may be required to apply for a new study permit from outside Canada. An International student advisor can help you understand your options.

Leaving the country

If you leave Canada during your break, request a letter from your academic advisor or graduate staff before re-entering Canada.

This letter should state that you are eligible to return to your program of studies at the end of your break. If you are asked by an immigration officer, present this letter along with any documentation of your break, if available (e.g., leave approval from G+PS, copies of plance tickets proving when you left Canada).

International Student Development

Talk to an advisor

International Student Advisors are Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) or Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) who can help.

When emailing us, include your student number in the subject line and the following in the email body: