Leave of absence policy

Student visa holders

This policy applies for all Griffith English Language Institute (GELI) programs with the exception of the Direct Entry Program - Preparation, Direct Entry Program and the Mixed English and Academic Program. Leave will not be approved once a student has commenced the Direct Entry Program - Preparation, Direct Entry Program or the Mixed English and Academic Program.

Students may apply for a period of 5 weeks leave after 20 weeks of continuous study. The start and end date of approved leave must correspond with the start and end date of a GELI 5-week English language program.

Students must apply in writing a minimum of 10 working days prior to the commencement of the requested leave period.  The request must be submitted on the GELI Application for Leave of Absence form, giving full reasons for the request. The request will be assessed and the outcome advised in writing.  Students must continue to attend class until notified of the outcome of the application.

If a student takes leave without approval or does not return on the approved re-commencement date the GELI’s Attendance Policy will apply and the student will be marked absent from class until the student re-commences study.  This may impact on the student’s visa.

Sponsored students are required to provide written permission from the Sponsor before a leave application can be considered.

Students are expected to return home during an approved leave of absence.

Under 18 students

Leave will not be approved for students less than 18 years of age except in exceptional circumstances.

Tourist visa and working holiday visa holders

Non student visa holders may apply for a period of 5 weeks leave.  The start and end date of approved leave must correspond with the start and end date of a GELI 5-week English language program

Students must apply in writing a minimum of 10 working days prior to the commencement of the requested leave period.  The request must be submitted on the GELI Application for Leave of Absence form.

Refunds

Students are not eligible for a refund on tuition fees for the period of approved leave or tuition fees paid for future enrolment.  Paid tuition fees will be transferred to a future GELI ELICOS or English language program.

How to submit this form

Submit your application in person at a GELI Student Service Centre at G52, N53 or M14. 

Compassionate and compelling circumstances

Leave my also be approved under compassionate or compelling circumstances as defined by the ESOS Act and National Code & National Code Explanatory Guide, ELICOS Sector Compliance Guide, 2007. If leave is approved under these conditions the student’s eCoE will be noted on PRISMS as “Leave of Absence”.