2. School Procedures

2.13. Interruption of studies

It is possible to interrupt your studies on the grounds of illness or other good cause for a maximum of two years in total.

If you are considering interrupting, you should first meet with your Advisor or the Senior Tutor to discuss your circumstances. They may be able to offer advice and support that would enable you to continue with your programme. If you do want to request an interruption, you can then complete an interruption form. You will normally be asked to submit evidence with your form, such as a medical letter.

Interrupting your studies means that although you remain registered with Queen Mary, you cease to be an enrolled student. This has consequences for your student status, funding and tuition fees, and for your right to remain in the UK if you are an international student. The Advice and Counselling service offers specialist, confidential advice on all of these matters. They offer useful written guides on their website. For more information and to book an appointment see here.

Please note that the Registry deadlines for both forms to be signed off by students are 7 January 2026 and 6 May 2026 (students who submit forms after these dates will remain registered for examinations in either the January or May examination periods and failure to attend will result in marks of 0 being entered and being used towards progression and award outcomes). 

When returning from interruption you may be asked to provide a fit-to-study letter from your GP or other professional so we know you are ready to resume your studies. If you cannot provide this or if it is not satisfactory, you may not be permitted to re-enrol.