We recognise that there are occasions when you may need to take a short period of time away from your studies, for a variety of reasons.
This article provides more information about what to do if you know in advance that you need a short-term absence, or if you fall unexpectedly ill.
If you know in advance that you need time out
What is an authorised short-term absence?
If approved by your faculty, an authorised short-term absence temporarily exempts you from the attendance and engagement expectations of your course, meaning you do not need to attend in-person or online teaching and learning events.
You should request an authorised short-term absence when you know in advance that you’ll need some time away from your studies.
When would I need an authorised short-term absence?
Examples of when you might need an authorised short-term absence include:
- If you are called for jury service, attendance at a court or tribunal, deployment or active duty with armed forces, or similar obligations
- If you need to travel to attend a funeral, or are affected by a bereavement or unexpected caring responsibilities
- If you need time to undergo or recover from planned surgery or other medical procedures
If you’re unsure whether an authorised short-term absence may be appropriate, please get in touch with your faculty to discuss your situation.
How can I request an authorised short-term absence?
To request an authorised short-term absence during term time, all you need to do is get in touch with your faculty by email.
You should include the following information:
- Why you need an authorised short-term absence
- How long you will be absent, including dates
If you will be absent during an assessment period, you should make your request through the mitigating circumstances process, rather than by emailing your faculty directly.
How long can an authorised short-term absence last?
An authorised short-term absence should typically last no more than two weeks.
For longer-term absences, you may need to formally interrupt your studies. More information about interruption can be found in the following articles:
Who approves an authorised short-term absence?
The relevant programme support team or academic team in your faculty will consider your request for an authorised short-term absence, involving other faculties where you’re enrolled in modules outside your home department. They will notify you either way by emailing your King’s email address.
The programme support team or academic team may seek supporting information from your teaching staff to inform their decision. Requests will be approved if they are reasonable and would not have a significant impact on your ability to progress your studies.
How long does it take to get a decision on a request for an authorised short-term absence?
Your faculty will aim to give you a decision on your request for an authorised short-term absence within five working days. This may be slightly longer during busier periods, such as at the start of the academic year or during an assessment period.
How far in advance do I need to request an authorised short-term absence?
You should aim to request an authorised short-term absence at least two weeks in advance, though we recognise that there are circumstances in which you might need to make your request at shorter notice.
Please be aware that there may be limits on how long you can take as an authorised short-term absence if you hold a Student visa, if your programme has professional practice requirements, or if the absence means you miss a key assessment date that might impact your progression. It's advisable to check with your faculty, or the Visa & International Advice team to ensure you're aware of any important time considerations.
If you’re unexpectedly ill
What should I do if I’m ill?
If you’re ill and need to take some time out from your studies for short-term sick leave (i.e., less than one week), please let your faculty know by email.
Speak to your Personal Tutor, research supervisor or Faculty Student Support Manager about a Support for Study meeting if you feel you may need more time away from campus to recover from illness.
What support and wellbeing services are available to me?
For guidance on how to stay well during your studies and look after both your physical and mental health, please see our ‘Health & wellbeing’ articles.
Student support and wellbeing services at King’s include Faculty Wellbeing Advisors and Residence Welfare Leads, as well as specialist services such as counselling, mental health, and disability support and inclusion.
I’m worried that time away may impact my ability to study or complete assessments – what should I do?
If you will be absent during an assessment period, you should make your request through the mitigating circumstances process, rather than by emailing your faculty directly.
In some scenarios, if you feel an authorised short-term absence or short-term sick leave may impact your ability to study and complete assessment, it may also be advisable to apply for mitigating circumstances. This will ensure that the impact can be taken into account. Further information on this can be found in the following article: What are mitigating circumstances?
Faculty contacts
Please see our article ‘Contacting & visiting your faculty and department’ for full contact details.