From 1 September 2025:
If you anticipate a delay in completing your Research Project, please follow the procedure below.
For two-year master’s programmes: please note that this only applies to an extension of the end date for Part 2. You do not need to submit an extension request for a delay in Part 1. However, you are expected to discuss a plan for the continuation of your project with your supervisor.
The protocol*
Please carefully read the entire delay protocol (pdf)*. Make sure to also discuss this document with your examiner(s).
Some important remarks:
- You must submit the extension request before the original end date.
- You can receive multiple extensions if necessary, but each extension has a maximum duration of three months.
- If the end date is exceeded and you did not submit an extension request, you lose the right to graduate cum laude.
Possible reasons for an extension
There are different reasons why you might need an extension. Check below which category belongs to you, so you know which approvals to obtain:
- Personal circumstances: there are (unforeseen) circumstances in your or your examiner(s)’ personal life.
- Study-related circumstances: circumstances that affect your study planning, e.g. you are following extra courses or an internship at the same time.
- Project-related circumstances: unforeseen circumstances in your project, e.g. when working together with a company.
Note: The absence of positive or significant results, new insights within the research group, the writing of a scientific article, and other aspects of daily research practice are not considered valid reasons for requesting an extension.
Steps to submit an extension request
- Discuss and agree on a new end date with your first and second examiner. Important: the end date refers to the date on which your grade is registered by your examiner, not the date on which you submit your thesis.
- Obtain the necessary approval statements. This can be a screenshot of an e-mail or Teams chat that shows the person in question agrees with the new end date.
- Personal: project supervisor/first examiner, second examiner, study advisor
- Study-related: project supervisor/first examiner, second examiner, study advisor
- Project-related: project supervisor/first examiner and second examiner. For second or later extension in this category, also an approval from the study advisor and programme coordinator is needed.
- Start the Osiris Case via Osiris Student > ‘My Cases’> ‘Start Case’ > ‘Request to the Board of Examiners’ > New end date thesis project and complete all the information.
- The Research Project Coordinator will review your request for an extension. You will receive a notification of the outcome. If the extension is approved, the end date of your research project will be changed in Osiris.
Why do I need to receive approval to extend my end date?
Please note: In most cases, especially when personal circumstances are involved, your request will be approved. The extension request serves as a tool to identify potential issues early on and, if necessary, guide both you and your examiners toward appropriate support.
Questions?
