Leave of absence

Students may apply for a leave of absence for one or more semesters, in particular in the following circumstances:

Completion of compulsory military or civilian service, or a voluntary social year
- Required documentation: Confirmation from the competent military authority or the Civilian Service Agency, stating the duration of the service
Inability to attend for more than two months due to pregnancy or illness
- Required documentation: Medical certificate issued by a specialist
Predominant care of a child until the child’s seventh birthday or, if applicable, until the child starts school at a later age
- Required documentation: The child’s birth certificate and proof of residence (Meldezettel) for both the student and the child. The registered addresses must be the same
Ongoing care of a close relative for more than two months during the semester in question
- Required documentation: Medical certificate confirming the relative’s need for care or documentation of the care level, together with proof of residence (Meldezettel) for both the student and the person receiving care

Applications for a leave of absence can be submitted by the following deadlines:

The application must be submitted digitally via ELSA.

Regardless of the leave of absence, the ÖH contribution (students‘ union fee) must be paid every semester within the specified deadline.

How to apply: Our tutorial videos provide a step-by-step guide on how to log in and submit your application through ELSA.

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