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HSE Study Leave (HR108p): Who Qualifies & How to Apply

Last verified 1 Sept 2026· Published 23 Jul 2026

Quick answer: HSE study leave gives you time off — paid or unpaid depending on the approval — to attend or prepare for an approved course relevant to your role or the service. It is discretionary rather than automatic and must be approved in advance.

The HSE supports staff who upskill — and study leave is the mechanism: time off, paid or unpaid depending on the approval, to attend or prepare for an approved course.

How it works

  • Study leave is discretionary, not automatic: it’s granted for courses relevant to your role or the service’s needs, approved in advance.
  • The amount and whether it’s paid vary by discipline and service — some groups (for example NCHDs and nursing staff on approved programmes) have scheme-specific study leave entitlements set out in their contracts or training arrangements.
  • Pair it with examination leave (HR108e) for the exam days themselves.

How to apply

  1. Discuss the course with your line manager and get it approved for your role.
  2. Submit form HR108p from the official HSE HR forms page with the course details and dates.
  3. Keep evidence of attendance/completion — services often ask for it.

See our guide to every HSE HR form and the full leave entitlements guide. Upskilling with an eye on promotion? The pay increment calculator shows what the next grade is worth.

Study leave terms are set by policy, contract and local approval — this is a guide to the mechanism, not a promise of a fixed number of days. Confirm with your manager and HR.

Frequently asked questions

Does the HSE give paid study leave?
It can — study leave is discretionary and granted for approved, role-relevant courses; whether it''s paid and how much you get depend on your discipline, contract and service approval. NCHDs and nurses on approved programmes often have scheme-specific entitlements.
How do I apply for HSE study leave?
Get the course approved by your line manager, then submit form HR108p from the official HSE HR forms page with the course details and dates.

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