Change of Circumstances

The University of St Andrews recognises that there are times that students may need to spend a period of time away from their studies. The University does not wish students to withdraw from their programme of studies, if this is not what is required or best. There may be other solutions such as taking a Leave of Absence, reducing your study to part-time, or getting some practical advice about your studies.

Leave of Absence

A Leave of Absence is a 'break' in your studies. A Leave of Absence is a request in the first instance and subject to approval by the Registry Support Officer and the Associate Dean/Provost. The minimum period of a Leave of Absence for Undergraduate or Postgraduate Taught students is one Semester. The clock will be stopped on your studies and nothing will appear on your transcript for that time. It is important to quickly identify whether a Leave of Absence is the right choice for you, so that the application can be made as soon as issues arise, or alternative support can be put in place.

For further information about the University’s Leave of Absence Policy.

Change of Mode of Attendance

If your circumstances mean that a change in your Mode of Attendance may be the best way for your to manage your studies (from full-time to part time or vice versa) you can discuss this with the relevant Registry Student Support Officer. You should note that not all programmes are deliverable at a part time or full-time rate and you should contact your school to enquire if this is something they offer.

Change of Location

All students are expected to reside at a term address within a commutable distance from the University unless they have formal permission for their Study Location to be outside of St Andrews. This permission can be granted for academic purposes: for example, to conduct essential research. This permission can also be exceptionally granted for non-academic purposes with the support of the School and the approval of the Registry Student Support Officer.

For further information about University’s Change of Location of Studies Policy.

Withdrawing from the University of St Andrews

If you do decide to withdraw from your studies, the Registry Support Officer can give you advice on the procedures in place as well as more general advice about the necessary non-academic steps to take to complete the process. If you have any questions or wish to make an appointment, please contact the relevant Registry Officer (Support) who will be happy to help you with your query.

Student Services

You may also feel that you wish to discuss your various options with Student Services who can offer practical advice, suggest options and contact the Registry Officer on your behalf to make an appointment. The Advice and Support Centre can give information on any student matter and you can arrange an appointment by contacting the ASC (theasc@st-andrews.ac.uk).

Contact details

Undergraduate/Postgraduate (Taught)
Registry Officer (Support)
Email: reg-support@st-andrews.ac.uk
Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 2129

Postgraduate (Research)
Registry Officer (Support)
Email: reg-support-pgr@st-andrews.ac.uk
Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 2256