Lasted Updates
Get timely updates on immigration, work eligibility, and health insurance for international students.
Disclaimer
The immigration information on this page has been reviewed and endorsed by Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) or Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) in compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. However, this is not a legal document and information may change without notice. Always refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the most up-to-date information.
Overview of taking time away from school
Students may need time away from studies, whether it be for health reasons, a family emergency, because you are in-between programs, or other reasons. All reasons for taking time away from studies will be referred to as "gaps" in the sections to follow.
As an international student at TWU, you have some important things to think about when taking a gap. Taking a gap could negatively impact:
- Your current student status in Canada
- Your current eligibility to work on and off campus
- Your future eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Depending on the type of gap, you might be able to keep your current student status and future eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Types of gaps
You must "actively pursue studies" in order to maintain your student status in Canada and your eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit. The length and the type of gap impact whether or not you are considered to be actively pursuing studies during your gap.
Gaps considered actively pursuing studies if 150 days or less
- Deferring your program start date after arrival in Canada
- Switching programs at TWU (whether you completed a program or not)
- Changing institutions (whether you completed a program or not)
- TWU-authorized leaves of absences
- Undergraduate students on a scheduled break in the summer session
- Strike or school closure
Gaps which are not considered actively pursuing studies
- Gaps beyond 150 days when deferring program start date after arrival in Canada
- Gaps beyond 150 days when switching programs at TWU (whether you completed a program or not)
- Gaps beyond 150 days when changing institutions (whether you completed a program or not)
- Any other gap not on the approved list above, such as being on academic suspension
- Gaps beyond 150 days due to a strike or school closure
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if I have already taken a gap in the past?
No immediate action is necessary until you make your next immigration application, such as a post-graduation work permit.
Collect as many documents as you can related to the reason for your gap in studies. Contact our international student services through Service Hub for personalized assistance.
What should I prepare if I need to take a TWU-authorized leave?
Talk to your Program Coordinator or Academic Advisor to check your program requirements and discuss your options for taking a gap and returning to studies later. You must meet all academic regulations of your program. Taking a leave does not guarantee courses will be available when you return to studies.
Carefully review how taking time away from studies impacts your immigration and other potential impacts as described on this page, particularly if you will be on leave for more than 150 days and will be in Canada during your leave. Contact international student services through the Service Hub if you have any questions about the immigration impacts of taking a gap.
Please note:
- Your authorized leave letter will say when you start your leave. You can remain in Canada for 150 days after that date.
- Leaves longer than 150 days affect your Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility and status in Canada.
If you still have questions related to immigration, health insurance, and life as an international student in Canada?
- Workshops and Seminars: Our workshops and seminars are conducted regularly to help international students stay informed and empowered. Link to TWU Calendar.
- Service Hub: For personalized assistance in resolving immigration-related questions, please submit your inquiries through Service Hub. Our team is here to provide specific support and help with any concerns you may have. Please note that TWU RCICs or RISIAs can only advise international students, their spouses, common-law partners, and children. We do not submit IRCC applications on behalf of international students.