Suspend your candidature
As a HDR student can I apply for a period of voluntary suspension (approved leave)?
Answer ID 3551 | Last updated on 06/05/2026 02.26 PM
Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students whose course rules so allow may apply for one or more periods of voluntary suspension, up to a maximum of 12 months throughout the course, within their candidature time.
Your application for suspension can be submitted in HDRhub.
- Login to HDRhub using your student ID.
- Go to 'My project', 'Candidature management', and 'Start a new application'.
- Provide reasons for your request and upload any relevant supporting documents.
If you are a student visa holder, you should seek advice from Home Affairs on the potential impact on your visa.
More information can be found here: Apply to suspend my candidature