University regulations set a maximum time limit of five years for completing a master’s program and six years for completing a doctoral program. Time spent on an approved leave of absence does not count toward these limits.
Sometimes, circumstances beyond a student’s control can delay progress. In such cases, a one-year extension may be approved if the request is well-justified and supported by the Graduate Advisor.
Graduate students considering an extension should start by discussing the situation with their Supervisor and Graduate Advisor. Each request must include a completed Request for Extension form, a memo from the Supervisor or Graduate Advisor explaining the reason for the request, the most recent Supervisory Committee report, and a clear extension timeline showing how the remaining work will be completed within the requested period. Extensions must align with the start and end of an academic term, and students on extension are assessed increased tuition fees.
In rare cases, an additional year beyond the first extension may be approved. After that point, extensions are typically reviewed term by term to help ensure steady progress and regular check-ins between the graduate student and supervisor. This approach helps confirm that the graduate student remains on track and receives timely support if new challenges arise.