Hora Finita provides the option to change a PhD project on hold. Reasons for this may include for example maternity leave, a sabbatical or long-term illness while pursuing a PhD. The on hold functionality offers three scenarios:

• A respite period with an unknown end date
• A period of respite with a start and end date
• A respite period with a start date, end date and the recalculation of deadlines

To change a PhD project on hold, first open the relevant PhD project. In the navigation menu on the right-hand side, you will find the “On hold” function. Next, click New to create a new record.

1. A new on hold record always has a start date. This can also be a date in the past, i.e. retroactive.
2. An end date is not mandatory, but:
   - Without an end date, it is not possible to apply a respite period;
   - Without an end date, we recommend periodically reviewing the overview of all records on hold to monitor the progress of a PhD candidate;
   - If the project status is changed to Terminated, then the on hold record without an end date will automatically be given the termination date as the end date.
3. The remarks field allows you to add additional information.

The field Process delay provides the option to recalculate deadlines based on the duration of the respite period. This applies to milestones (interviews),  requirements and the field planned PhD programme end.

4. Tick the box next to process delay.
   
   Please note:
   - An expired deadline will NOT be changed retroactively. It must be changed manually;
   - Completed/approved milestones and requirements remain unchanged;
   - A booked ceremony date remains unchanged when entering an on hold period. If the on hold end date is after the ceremony date, Hora Finita will generate an error message.

To monitor all projects with the status on hold, navigate to On hold history at PhD projects in the menu. There is also the option to filter the on hold records by current, future and without end date.