2023/24 Reverting ALL maximum suspension period to 12 months

Before academic year 2021/22, if a learner was suspended for a continuous 12-month period, then their application was automatically withdrawn.​

We were asked to introduce an 18-month suspension period rule from March 2021 for a limited period of time due to the impact of COVID-19.​

We decided to extend the 18-month suspension period for the duration of academic year 2022/23.

From the start of academic year 2023/24, from 1 August 2023, we will revert the maximum suspension period to 12 months.​

This will apply for new Advanced Learner Loan funded learners whose suspension starts after the beginning of academic year 2023/24. Any learner suspended for 12 months or more from the start of academic year 2023/24 onwards should be automatically withdrawn.​

Learners who suspended their studies before 1 August 2023 should continue to have the 18-month suspension period applied, in line with the suspension policy that was in effect when they suspended from their course.

Example

Gemma starts a designated FE learning aim on 1 October 2022. On 19 October 2023, Gemma decides to suspend her studies. As Gemma has suspended her studies before 1 August 2023, the point at which the maximum ALL suspension period reverts to 12 months, she is entitled to suspend her studies for a maximum period of 18 months before being withdrawn.​

This allows for transitional protection for learners who may have suspended for more than 12 months following advice from their provider that their maximum suspension period is 18 months and intended to return within this timeframe.​

All learners whose suspension starts after 1 August 2023 will be subject to the revised 12 month maximum suspension period.

Example

Carole starts a designated FE learning aim on 9 April 2023. On 19 August 2023, Carole decides to suspend her studies. Despite Carole starting her course before 1 August 2023, the point at which the maximum ALL suspension period reverts to 12-months, she will still be subject to the revised 12-month maximum suspension period. Her suspension starts after the beginning of academic year 2023/24.