Considering taking a break from your studies?

Person sidder i vindueskarm og kigger ud i luften

There can be many reasons to consider a break; more time for personal projects, financial considerations, or to prevent burnout. But what does it really mean to take a break, and how can you best plan it so that it benefits you in the long run?

Table of contents

How long can you take a break?
Advantages and disadvantages of taking a break from studies
How to take a break from studies

According to a Career Advisor

How long can you take a break?

At most universities in Denmark, it is possible to take a study break, also known as a leave of absence, for a period. The break can last from a semester to a year, depending on the specific rules of your programme. According to a career advisor, taking a break might be the action that gives you clarity about your situation.

I am a fan of breaks

says Sanne Mattebjerg, a career advisor at IDA with extensive experience advising young students.

According to her, the need to withdraw will always surface at some point, even if you ignore it. It will just manifest as a stress reaction. So, it is about listening to yourself and figuring out if you need to do something else for a while. A break is not the same as lying on the sofa with Netflix and take-away for a semester.

I think more people tend to shut down their needs rather than listen to them. A break gives you the opportunity to find out if the expectations you had for your studies are what has actually happened. And here, it can be valuable to do something completely different. It could be a relevant job, a trip, or a job at a café.

Sanne Mattebjerg, Career advisor at IDA.

Why it is important to say no

Fact box

Advantages and disadvantages of taking a break from studies

Advantages of taking a break

Time for Reflection: You might have been uncertain for a while about whether the direction you have chosen is right for you. A break gives you the opportunity to reflect on whether your education aligns with your long-term goals and if you are on the right path.
Work Experience: Many students choose to take a break to gain relevant work experience. This can be a significant advantage on your CV, as many employers value practical experience related to your education.
Financial Relief: If you experience financial challenges during your studies, a break can be used to work full-time and improve your financial situation. This will make it easier for you to focus on your studies when you return, without worrying about whether you can afford to eat out this month.
Travel and Personal Development: Some students take a leave of absence to explore the world, learn about new cultures, or improve their language skills. An adventure abroad not only strengthens your personal development but can also broaden your horizons and provide new perspectives that you can use when you return to your studies.
Preventing Stress and Burnout: University life can be intense and demanding, and many students experience stress and burnout. If you feel that student life is becoming overwhelming, it can be a healthy decision to take a break to take care of yourself.

Disadvantages of taking a break

Delay in Your Education: The most obvious disadvantage of taking a break is that it will extend your time at university, and you will therefore enter the job market later.
Difficulty Returning to Study Flow: When you take a break, it can be challenging to get back into the flow of being a student. You might have been away from the books for a year and gotten used to a different routine. It can take time to readjust to the academic environment.
Lack of Continuity in Social Relationships: When you take a break, you risk losing contact with your fellow students and the social network you have built up during your studies. When you return, your friends might have completed their education, or you might find that study groups have changed. This can make it harder to find your place socially again. A good tip is to select the relationships you value most before the break and maintain contact while you are away.

What are your expectations for your studies?

The procedure

How to Take a Break from Studies

If you decide to take a break, you typically need to apply for a leave of absence from your programme. Each university has its own rules and procedures, so it is important to research how it works at your institution. In some places, you can take a leave without a specific reason, while in others, you need a particular cause such as illness or parental leave. Also, remember to consider how your student grants and any scholarships will be affected by a break.

Taking a break from your studies can be a healthy and necessary decision if done for the right reasons. Whether you want to work, travel, take care of your mental health, or improve your finances, a break can give you the time and space to focus on yourself. However, it is important to weigh both the advantages and disadvantages to make the right decision for your future. Plan your break carefully so that you return to your studies with renewed energy and motivation to complete your education.

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