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The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Perfect English Leave Application
Have you mastered the way of writing a standard English leave application? If not, let's explore the structure, content, and expert tips for creating professional leave applications that get approved! Whether you need a leave application for school, want to request time off from work, or must write a marriage leave application, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to succeed.

I. What is an English Leave Application?
What is an English leave application? An English leave application is a formal document written by Party A (employee, student, etc.) to inform Party B (employer, supervisor, teacher, professor, etc.) about their intention to take a specific period of leave. This application typically contains detailed information about the reason for leave, expected duration, and any other necessary details that help the recipient make an informed decision.
There are several basic types of English leave applications you might need to write:
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Application for sick leave
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Leave application for school
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Leave application for parents of child
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Marriage leave application
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Vacation leave application
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Application for maternity leave
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Annual leave application
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Leave application for death/bereavement
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Application for sudden/emergency leave
Understanding which type of application you need helps you choose the right tone, level of formality, and specific information to include. Each type has its own requirements and cultural expectations that can significantly impact your approval chances.

II. Structure and Content of an English Leave Application
What information should be included in an English leave application? Let's find out the essential components that make your application complete and professional!
- Personal Information - Include the personal information of the person requesting leave, such as full name, employee ID or student number, department or class, and your position or grade level for proper identification.
- Date - Always include the date when you are writing the leave application, as this helps establish the timeline and shows when you submitted your formal request.
- Recipient Details - Clearly identify who will receive your application, including their name, title, department, and organization to ensure your request reaches the right person.
- Reason - Clearly state the specific reason for requesting leave, whether it's health-related, family matters, personal commitments, or other valid circumstances that require your absence.
- Time Period - Specify the exact period of time you want to take leave, including the start and end dates, total number of days, and whether weekends are included in your calculation.
- Contact Information - To facilitate communication during your absence, provide reliable contact information such as phone number or email address where you can be reached if needed.
- Professional Closing - End your application with an appropriate closing phrase and your signature (handwritten or electronic) to confirm your commitment and professionalism.

III. Essential English Leave Application Templates
To give you a clear understanding of the structure and content to present in an English leave application, we have collected and compiled practical templates for different scenarios. Take a look and adapt them to your specific situation!
1. Application for Sick Leave in English
From: [Your Email] To: [Manager's Email] Subject: Sick Leave Application - [Your Name] - [Dates] Dear [Manager's Name], I am writing to inform you that I am not feeling well and, as a result, I am unable to come to work. I am submitting this sick leave application to request [number] days off from [start date] to [end date] due to my illness. I have consulted with a doctor and have been diagnosed with [mention the illness if comfortable], and the doctor has advised me to take time off to rest and recover properly. I have attached the medical certificate provided by my healthcare provider for your reference. I apologize for any inconvenience my absence may cause to the team. I am committed to ensuring that my work responsibilities are not compromised, and I will make arrangements for any pending tasks with [colleague's name]. Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your understanding and prompt approval of my sick leave. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Your Position] [Contact Information] |
Note: If your employer requests you to attach medical certificates or other documentation, make sure to include them with your English leave application.
2. Leave Application for School in English
From: [Your Email or Parent's Email] To: [Teacher's/Principal's Email] Subject: Leave Application for [Student Name] - [Class/Grade] Dear [Teacher's Name/Principal's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to inform you that due to [state the reason, e.g., illness, family function], I am unable to attend classes for [number] days. I kindly request your permission to grant me leave from [start date] to [end date]. I will ensure to catch up on missed assignments and classwork promptly upon my return. If there are any specific tasks or assignments that I need to address during my absence, please let me know, and I will make arrangements to complete them. I have attached [relevant documentation] for your reference. If there are any procedures or forms that need to be completed for this leave application, please inform me, and I will promptly attend to them. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to your favorable response. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Student ID/Roll Number] [Contact Information] |
Note: For school applications, parents may need to write on behalf of younger students, and supporting documentation like medical certificates may be required.
3. Leave Application by Parents for Child
From: [Parent's Email] To: [School Administration] Subject: Leave Application for [Child's Name] - [Class] - [Section] Dear [Principal's Name/Teacher's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing on behalf of my child, [Child's Full Name], who is a student in [Class and Section] at [School Name]. I am seeking your permission for [him/her] to be granted leave from school due to [reason]. The circumstances necessitate [his/her] absence from [start date] to [end date], and I kindly request your understanding and approval in this matter. If there are any specific procedures or forms that we need to complete for this leave application, please let us know, and we will promptly attend to them. We are willing to provide any necessary documentation, such as medical certificates, if required. We will ensure that [Child's Name] catches up on all missed lessons and assignments upon [his/her] return to school. If there are any concerns or additional steps we need to take, please inform us at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your attention to this request, and we look forward to your favorable response. Sincerely, [Parent's Full Name] [Relationship to Student] [Contact Number] [Email Address] |
Note: When writing for a child, parents should maintain a respectful tone and be prepared to provide additional documentation as requested by the school.
4. Marriage Leave Application in English
From: [Your Email] To: [Manager's Email] Subject: Marriage Leave Application - [Your Name] - [Dates] Dear [Manager's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally request leave from work due to my upcoming marriage ceremony. The wedding is scheduled to take place on [wedding date], and I would like to request marriage leave starting from [start date] to [end date]. I have made arrangements to ensure that my responsibilities are covered during my absence. I have coordinated with [colleague's name] to handle my current projects and will complete all urgent tasks before my departure. I have attached the wedding invitation for your reference and am willing to provide any additional information or documentation if required. If there are any specific procedures or forms that need to be completed for this leave application, please let me know, and I will promptly attend to them. Thank you for your attention to this request. I look forward to your favorable response and appreciate your support during this joyous occasion. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Your Position] [Contact Information] |
Note: For marriage leave applications, including a wedding invitation or ceremony details can help support your request and show the formal nature of the occasion.
5. Vacation Leave Application
From: [Your Email] To: [Manager's Email] Subject: Vacation Leave Application - [Your Name] - [Dates] Dear [Manager's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally request vacation leave from work. I would like to take a break and plan to go on vacation starting from [start date] to [end date]. I have made arrangements to ensure that my responsibilities are covered during my absence. I have discussed my vacation plans with [colleague's name] to ensure a smooth workflow during my absence. I am committed to completing any pending tasks before my departure and will make myself available for any necessary handovers. All my current projects are on schedule, and I have prepared detailed notes for [colleague's name] who will be covering my responsibilities. If there are any specific procedures or forms that need to be completed for this leave application, please let me know, and I will promptly attend to them. Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your favorable response. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Your Position] [Contact Information] |
Note: For vacation leave, advance planning and clear coverage arrangements demonstrate professionalism and increase approval chances.
6. Emergency Leave Application
From: [Your Email] To: [Manager's Email] Subject: Urgent Leave Request - [Your Name] - Emergency Dear [Manager's Name], I am writing to request urgent leave starting [date] due to a family emergency that requires my immediate attention. I sincerely apologize for the short notice, but the circumstances are beyond my control. I have immediately contacted [colleague's name] to brief them on my current projects and will ensure that all urgent matters are addressed remotely if possible. I anticipate being able to return to work on [expected return date], but I will keep you updated if the situation changes. I can be reached at [emergency contact number] for any critical issues that may arise. I deeply appreciate your understanding during this difficult time. Respectfully, [Your Full Name] |
IV. Mastering Professional Language for Approval
The way you express yourself in an English leave application can make the difference between approval and rejection. Let's explore the language techniques that make your application stand out professionally!
- Use Polite and Formal Language - Always maintain a respectful tone throughout your application. Phrases like "I kindly request," "I would be grateful," and "Thank you for your consideration" show proper etiquette and cultural awareness.
- Be Clear and Specific - Avoid vague statements that might confuse the reader. Instead of saying "I need some time off," write "I am requesting three days of leave from March 15 to March 17, 2024."
- Show Responsibility - Demonstrate that you care about your work or studies by mentioning how you'll handle your responsibilities. This shows maturity and professionalism that supervisors appreciate.
- Express Appreciation - Always thank the recipient for their time and consideration. This simple courtesy can significantly impact how your request is received.
- Professional Vocabulary Choices that elevate your application include using "request" instead of "want," "absence" instead of "not coming," "circumstances" instead of "problems," and "documentation" instead of "papers."
Remember, a well-written English leave application demonstrates your professionalism, respect for organizational policies, and consideration for your colleagues' workload. Use these templates and tips to create applications that get the results you need while maintaining positive relationships in your workplace or academic environment!

Hi I'm Chloe, and I am currently serving as an Product Content Administrator at Prep Education. With over five years of experience in independent online IELTS study and exam preparation, I am confident in my ability to support learners in achieving their highest possible scores.
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