Change of circumstances

During your postgraduate research studies, there may be changes in your circumstances that affect your programme. In such circumstances, you should inform your supervisor and the Doctoral Academy team as soon as possible.

Only mitigating circumstances defined as eligible under the Postgraduate Researcher Change of Circumstance Policy may be accepted as valid grounds for approving an interruption or extension.

Changes to your personal circumstances, your immigration category or your course of studies can affect your student visa in the UK. You must check if any changes impact your visa and what you need to do about this beforehand. Further advice can be found on the Student Support website.

Before applying for any change of circumstances, please note that extensions are typically unfunded unless your funder or supervisor has specific funding available.

In some cases, this may take up to five weeks to complete and for you to be notified of the decision. It is recommended you submit your application at least two months before the end of your programme.

If you would like to speak to someone regarding change of circumstances, please contact the FSE Progression and Welfare team.