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HDR Leave

All Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates, including Scholarship recipients, enrolled in a thesis unit are entitled to apply for annual and sick leave which is calculated on a pro-rata basis.

STEP 1:  Seek Supervisor Approval.

  • Candidates must obtain their Principal Supervisor’s approval prior to taking any leave and should discuss annual leave with their supervisor before applying.
  • If there are circumstances where you cannot apply before taking leave (such as illness), you should contact your supervisor and advise them of your circumstances.

STEP 2: Submit Application and Obtain Final Approval

Complete HDR Student Leave Application online. This form applies to all Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates requesting either annual or sick leave. Upon completion, will be forwarded to your supervisor for approval.

Note: All HDR candidates are required to report approved annual leave and sick leave days taken each semester in their Progress Report.

For HDR scholarship recipients, please refer to the following Scholarships webpage for information on leave entitlements: Can I take leave whilst in receipt of a HDR Living Stipend Scholarship

The below leave categories apply to all HDR candidates:

Annual Leave

You are entitled to 20 working days (4 weeks) of annual leave each year, calculated on a pro-rata basis for part-time candidates, this may be accrued and used in subsequent years. Leave requests are approved by the Principal Supervisor. Candidature will continue to be consumed during approved annual leave.

If you are applying for more than four weeks of leave, please discuss with your Principal Supervisor. An application for different leave, course intermission and/or candidature extension may be appropriate.

Sick Leave

You are entitled to 10 working days of sick leave per annum throughout candidature. Sick leave days may be accrued and used in subsequent years. If your sick leave exceeds two consecutive days, you are required to provide a medical certificate upon return to your Principal Supervisor and upload a medical certificate with your progress report.

If you have an ongoing medical condition and/or disability or provide care for a family member with a disability, you may be eligible for additional support. For eligibility information or to make an appointment to register with the service, contact Access and Inclusion on 6304 6960, inclusion@ecu.edu.au, or visit the website for further information.

If you have any questions, please with Graduate Research Services.

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