G.D.6 Graduate Time Limits
G.D.6.1 Faculty of Graduate Studies' Time Limits
Students in research- and thesis-based master’s programs must complete all degree requirements within four registration years; students in course-based master’s programs must complete all degree requirements within six registration years. It is expected that students completing a master’s degree on a full-time basis will complete the degree within half the time allowed.
Students enrolled in most certificate and laddered diploma programs must complete each credential within two years. Students who enter directly into a diploma program must complete that credential within four years. The final step of a laddered pathway Master’s degree must also be completed within two years.
Students in doctoral programs must complete all degree requirements within six registration years. It is expected that most students will complete requirements within four years.
A student may be required to withdraw for exceeding the maximum time allowed to complete all degree requirements.
G.D.6.2 Program-Specific Time Limits
Individual programs may require shorter completion times than the Faculty of Graduate Studies maximum. Check the program’s entry for specific details about time limits.
G.D.6.3 Program Extensions
If a student needs longer than the regulation time set out in G.D.6.1, an extension to program may be granted by the Faculty of Graduate Studies on the basis of a recommendation from the Graduate Program Director that specifies the grounds for the extension and provides a detailed schedule for the completion of the program.
Program extensions will only be granted to students who require more time to complete their own thesis or coursework and are not designed for the benefit of the supervisor. Extensions will not be granted in situations in which the student has completed the work required for the credential in which they are enrolled.
Forms can be found on the Faculty of Graduate Studies website at: https://grad.ucalgary.ca/current-students/important-dates-and-resources/forms-and-documents. If an extension is not approved, a student may be required to withdraw for reaching maximum time in program.
For programs that require shorter completion time than the Faculty of Graduate Studies maximum, requests for extension may be granted by the program.
G.D.6.4 Program Extensions for GSA Executive Members
Graduate programs must take the service by GSA Executive members into consideration in assessing the student’s progress in the annual progress report. On request, the Faculty of Graduate Studies will grant GSA Executive members extensions to time in program of up to one year per year in office.