Leave of absence

Valid reasons may include:

• a study-related stay abroad
• practical work relevant to the course of study for at least three months outside the Academy, provided this cannot be undertaken during the lecture-free period
• acute illness (evidenced by a medical certificate), maternity leave or caring for a relative (in need of care within the meaning of Sections 14 and 15 of Book XI of the Social Code)
• other reasons

• A leave of absence is always granted for the duration of a full semester. A new application must be submitted for each semester. A leave of absence cannot be granted with retroactive effect.
• As a rule, the duration of the leave of absence should not exceed two semesters.

• Students on leave of absence are not allowed to attend classes or use the university’s facilities, with the exception of the library and the computer centre.
• Students on leave of absence do not participate in the university’s self-governance.
• In principle, no exams may be undertaken whilst on leave of absence. In exceptional cases, the relevant examination board may, upon application, authorise the undertaking of examination performances during a leave of absence (e.g. for the recognition of a mandatory internship undertaken during a period of leave).
• Exception: Students who are on leave of absence under the protective provisions of Section 61(3) of the Higher Education Act (LHG) relating to maternity leave and parental leave, or for the care of relatives, are entitled to attend courses, complete coursework and examinations, and use university facilities.

A leave of absence during the first academic semester is only possible in exceptional cases, where the reasons for the leave arose after enrolment and could not have been foreseen beforehand (hardship cases).

In addition, a leave of absence is possible during the first academic semester of a consecutive Master’s programme, for example for the purpose of studying abroad or taking up practical work. The approval of the relevant examination board is required to apply for a leave of absence during the first academic semester of a Master’s programme.

In the case of a study period abroad funded through Erasmus+, it is generally not possible to take a leave of absence, as otherwise the academic achievements obtained abroad cannot be recognised as part of the degree programme, and the funding conditions of the Erasmus+ programme would therefore not be met.

Yes. A leave of absence does not exempt you from the obligation to pay the semester fee for the semester in which you are on leave. However, students pursuing a second degree and non-EU students are exempt from second-degree fees and international tuition fees during their leave of absence.