If university isn’t what you expected, or you need time out, that’s okay. You can pause your studies (interrupt) or leave your course (withdraw), both are valid options. Here’s what each option means and how it could affect you.

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What does it mean to interrupt?

Interrupting means pausing your studies temporarily. This can be a good option if you:

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• need time for your wellbeing

• have caring responsibilities

• want to return when things feel more manageable.

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Should I interrupt or consider other options?

Before deciding, it’s a good idea to speak to your Education Welfare Advisor or explore options like part-time study. If you’re unsure, we’re here to talk it through.

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What happens when I interrupt?

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• your studies are paused

• you won’t need to complete academic work

• you’ll need to check emails closer to your return date

• the University will contact you about returning and choosing modules.

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Many students use this time to focus on their health and wellbeing.

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How long can I interrupt for?

Usually up to one year. Longer interruptions may be possible with Department approval. If requesting more than one year, include supporting information in your application.

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How much will I pay if I interrupt my studies?

Tuition fee charges depend on when you interrupt and your level of study.

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Undergraduate fees:

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• first 2 weeks of term: 0%

• rest of first term: 25%

• second term: 50%

• third term: 100%

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Postgraduate taught fees:

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• first 2 weeks of term: 0%

• first term: 33%

• second term: 66%

• third term: 100%

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Check the Finance Regulations (Interruptions, Withdrawals & Refunds) for exact dates.

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If you use Student Finance fees are paid directly to the University. Even if you interrupt early, Student Finance may still count this as a year of funding.

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If you self-fund you may be eligible for a partial refund depending on how much you’ve paid.

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What happens to my maintenance loan?

You’ll stop receiving payments once you interrupt and recent payments may be treated as an overpayment. This is usually deducted from future funding if you return.

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What if I interrupt for health reasons?

If you interrupt due to health, you may be eligible for 60 extra days of maintenance. This won’t count as an overpayment. You must select health reasons on your interruption form and contact Student Finance England to arrange this.

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Do I need to tell Student Finance?

You can let them know, but they’ll wait for confirmation from the University, nothing changes until the University updates your status.

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If you need additional funding you may be able to apply for Compelling Personal Reasons (CPR) funding.

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Can I still join societies?

Yes, you can still be part of Guild societies while interrupting. This can help maintain friendships, support your wellbeing, make returning to uni easier. If finances are a barrier, you can see support from our Society Hardship Fund.

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What does it mean to withdraw?

Withdrawing means leaving your course permanently. This might be right if:

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• university isn’t the right path for you

• Exeter isn’t the right fit

• you want to explore other options.

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Once you’ve withdrawn you will no longer be a student at the University of Exeter.

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Should I withdraw or interrupt?

If you’re unsure it may be better to interrupt first, you can later change this to withdrawal. This keeps your options open.

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How much will I pay if I withdraw?

Tuition fee charges depend on when you withdraw and your level of study.

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Undergraduate fees:

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• first 2 weeks of term: 0%

• rest of first term: 25%

• second term: 50%

• third term: 100%

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Postgraduate taught fees:

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• first 2 weeks of term: 0%

• first term: 33%

• second term: 66%

• third term: 100%

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Check the Finance Regulations (Interruptions, Withdrawals & Refunds) for exact figures.

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What happens to my maintenance loan if I withdraw?

Your payments stop once you withdraw and recent payments may be reclaimed by Student Finance. This may need to be repaid or be deducted from future funding.

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Do I need to tell Student Finance?

You can inform them, but changes only happen once the University confirms your withdrawal.

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What if I’ve withdrawn before?

This may affect your future funding. You might not have enough funding for another degree or need to apply for Compelling Personal Reasons (CPR) funding.

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What about accommodation if I withdraw or interrupt?

If you’re in private accommodation, it’s unlikely you can leave your tenancy early. See the Housing Advice page for guidance.

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You don’t have to figure this out alone. Our Advice Team can explain your options, talk through financial impacts and help you decide what’s right for you.

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Email advice@exeterguild.com or complete our enquiry form.