Taking a break from professional or academic life can sometimes be essential whether it’s for personal growth, higher studies, family needs, or simply to rejuvenate. Sabbatical leave is a formal way to request an extended break without permanently resigning from your job or studies.
If you are unsure how to frame a professional application for sabbatical leave, this comprehensive guide covers multiple examples, formats, and real-life situations, especially helpful for students, employees, and bank staff.
Sample Application for Sabbatical Leave

Date: {insert date}
To,
The Manager,
[Company Name],
[Company Address]
Subject: Application for Sabbatical Leave
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am [Your Name], working as [Your Designation] in the [Department Name]. Due to [mention reason: higher studies, travel, family reasons, etc.], I request a sabbatical leave starting from [Start Date] to [End Date].
I assure you that I will complete all necessary handovers and pending tasks before my departure. Kindly grant me leave for the mentioned period.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Application for Sabbatical Leave in Bank

Date: {insert date}
To,
The Branch Manager,
[Bank Name],
[Branch Address]
Subject: Application for Sabbatical Leave
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am [Your Name], currently posted as [Your Position] at [Branch Name]. I wish to apply for sabbatical leave for [Duration] starting from [Start Date] to [End Date], owing to [reason: higher education/family obligations/medical treatment].
I request you to kindly approve my leave and provide guidance regarding necessary formalities. I will ensure smooth handing over of my duties before proceeding on leave.
Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Application for Sabbatical Placement
If you are applying for a sabbatical placement, it generally refers to joining a temporary position or educational program during your sabbatical.

Date: {insert date}
To,
The Director,
[Institution Name],
[Address]
Subject: Application for Sabbatical Placement
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to apply for a sabbatical placement at [Organization/Institution Name]. I am currently employed at [Current Employer] and seeking an opportunity to broaden my professional knowledge and skills during my sabbatical leave period.
Attached are my resume and references. I am keen to contribute and learn from this placement.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Application for Sabbatical Leave in Bank Sample

Date: {insert date}
To,
The Branch Manager,
[Bank Name],
[Branch Address]
Subject: Request for Sabbatical Leave
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Your Name], an officer in [Department Name], wish to apply for a sabbatical leave of [Duration] from [Start Date] to [End Date] for [mention purpose: family reasons, higher studies, etc.].
I assure the bank of my commitment to follow all required protocols before proceeding on leave. I am ready to assist in completing pending responsibilities to ensure smooth functioning.
Kindly approve my leave request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Application for Sabbatical Leave SBI

Date: {insert date}
To,
The Branch Manager,
State Bank of India,
[Branch Address]
Subject: Application for Sabbatical Leave
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am [Your Name], an employee of SBI, working as [Designation] at [Branch Name]. I am requesting sabbatical leave from [Start Date] to [End Date] to pursue [mention purpose: higher education, personal reasons, etc.].
I request you to kindly grant me the necessary leave after completing the official procedures. I will ensure that my responsibilities are properly delegated during my absence.
Thank you for your support and understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Application for Sabbatical Appointment
Sometimes institutions or companies offer a sabbatical appointment, where you continue to be associated with a different role or project.

Date: {insert date}
To,
The Director,
[Organization Name],
[Address]
Subject: Application for Sabbatical Appointment
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am interested in applying for a sabbatical appointment within [Organization Name] during my upcoming sabbatical leave. My intention is to work on [mention project/research/study] that aligns with my professional development and the organization’s goals.
I hope to contribute meaningfully during this period and seek your approval for the appointment.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Application for Sabbatical Placement Sample

Here’s another example for a sabbatical placement:
Date: {insert date}
To,
The Coordinator,
[Placement Institution],
[Address]
Subject: Application for Sabbatical Placement
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am [Your Name], seeking a sabbatical placement opportunity at your esteemed organization. My purpose is to [mention objective: learn new skills, engage in research, community work, etc.], during my approved sabbatical period from [Start Date] to [End Date].
Kindly consider my application and let me know the process to proceed.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Sabbatical Leave for Travelling

Taking a sabbatical for traveling is becoming increasingly popular among professionals seeking personal growth and exposure.
Date: {insert date}
To,
The Manager,
[Company Name],
[Branch Address]
Subject: Application for Sabbatical Leave for Travelling
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am [Your Name], currently working as [Designation]. I wish to apply for a sabbatical leave for traveling purposes from [Start Date] to [End Date]. This travel will provide me valuable exposure to diverse cultures and enhance my professional and personal development.
Kindly grant me the necessary leave. I assure you of a smooth transition and complete handing over of responsibilities.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Sabbatical Leave Letter for Higher Studies

Date: {insert date}
To,
The HR Manager,
[Company Name],
[Address]
Subject: Application for Sabbatical Leave for Higher Studies
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am [Your Name], serving as [Designation] in your organization. I am planning to pursue [Course Name] at [Institution Name] to upgrade my qualifications.
Hence, I request a sabbatical leave from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I firmly believe that my enhanced skills will benefit the organization in the future.
Looking forward to your kind approval.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Sabbatical Leave Letter for Family Reasons

Date: {insert date}
To,
The Manager,
[Company Name],
[Branch Address]
Subject: Application for Sabbatical Leave for Family Reasons
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am [Your Name], working as [Designation] in [Department Name]. Due to urgent family commitments requiring my attention, I request a sabbatical leave for a period of [mention duration] starting from [Start Date].
I assure you that all tasks will be managed effectively before my leave begins. Kindly grant your approval.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Employee ID]
Structure & Format for Writing Sabbatical Leave Applications
When writing an application for sabbatical leave:
1. Keep the Tone Formal and Polite
Avoid casual expressions. Stick to professional, courteous language.
2. Mention Reason Clearly
Be transparent about the reason but maintain professionalism.
3. Specify Dates
Clearly mention the start and end dates of your requested leave.
4. Offer Assistance
State your willingness to help in the transition of your responsibilities.
Basic Format Layout:
FAQs
How do I request a sabbatical leave from work?
You should submit a formal written request to your manager or HR department, stating the reason, leave duration, and your plan to manage duties before your absence.
How long can a sabbatical leave last?
Typically, sabbatical leaves range from a few months up to one year, depending on company policies or academic institution guidelines.
Can I get paid during sabbatical leave?
It depends on the organization. Some offer fully paid, partially paid, or unpaid sabbatical leaves.
What are the valid reasons for a sabbatical leave?
Common reasons include pursuing higher education, traveling, family obligations, health issues, research work, or volunteering.
Is sabbatical leave allowed in banks like SBI?
Yes, banks like SBI have defined policies regarding sabbatical leave, often for reasons such as education, family needs, or health.