If you are a student enrolled at REW and you need to take a break from your studies, there are strict criteria you must meet.
International students on a student visa can only apply for a Leave of Absence if compassionate or compelling circumstances apply.
Important information
If you take leave for more than one week of a 5-week module, you will be required to repeat the module.
If you have completed Module A, you can take a Leave of Absence for up to 10 weeks before starting module B. If your Leave of Absence is longer than 10 weeks, you will need to repeat Module A.
If you have completed Module B, but not achieved the level, you can take a Leave of Absence for up to 5 weeks before repeating module B. If your Leave of Absence is longer than five weeks, you will need to repeat Module A.
If your Leave of Absence is 6 months or more, you will need to undertake a placement test to determine your English level when you return to study. Your test results may show that you need to repeat a level you have already passed.
If you need to extend your Leave of Absence, you must submit a new Leave of Absence request.
Taking Leave of Absence may affect your student visa. We recommend that you contact the Department of Home Affairs before you submit a request for a Leave of Absence.
Taking a Leave of Absence from your studies may also affect the start date of your RMIT formal program. You should consider how your study plan may need to change and if you need to defer the start of your RMIT formal program. If you have an agent, they may be able to assist you with this.
Tuition Fees
If you complete two weeks or more of a 5-week module, you will be charged the full tuition fees for that module.
If you do not return to study by the agreed date, you will still be required to pay the tuition fees as outlined in your original offer letter.
How to apply
You can apply for Leave of Absence by completing the REW Leave of Absence Request form and submitting it to the RMIT Training Student Services reception or via email to pathways.compliance@rmit.edu.au.
You must include supporting documentation in your application for Leave of Absence. Check the type of supporting documentation for compassionate and compelling circumstances.
For more information about this process, please refer to the RMIT English Worldwide (REW) Leave of Absence Instruction.