Taking a break from studying is sometimes necessary. Whether you've been focusing on work, family or other commitments, or simply needed some time away from your studies, returning to a professional qualification after a long gap can feel daunting.

You might find that topics you once understood have become a little hazy, your study routine has disappeared, or you're not quite sure where to start.

The good news is that you don't have to remember everything straightaway. With a realistic plan, consistent practice and the right approach, you can rebuild your confidence and get back into studying.

Here are six practical tips to help you make a successful return to your studies.

Six ways to get back into studying

If you're returning to study after a long break, these six actions can help you get started:

1. Start with one or two papers to make your workload manageable.
2. Review topics covered by exemptions to rebuild your foundational knowledge.
3. Study in focused 60–90 minute blocks and work consistently.
4. Create a realistic study timetable that fits around your other commitments.
5. Use 10–15 minute micro-sessions to make the most of spare time.
6. Practise exam-style questions regularly and complete a timed mock each week during your final month.

1. Start with one or two papers

It can be tempting to jump straight back in and take on several subjects at once, particularly if you're keen to make up for lost time.

However, it's important to be realistic about how much studying you can manage alongside work and your personal commitments.

Start with one or two papers and see how you get on. This gives you an opportunity to rebuild your study routine without overwhelming yourself.

Think about:

• How many hours you can realistically dedicate to studying each week.
• Your workload and any busy periods at work.
• Other commitments, including family and social activities.
• How much preparation you'll need for each exam.

Once you've established a routine, you can review your workload and decide whether taking on additional papers is manageable.

Remember, passing one paper at a time is better than taking on too much and struggling to keep up.

2. Review exempted topics to rebuild your foundations

If you've received exemptions from earlier exams, don't automatically assume that you still remember everything covered in those subjects.

Exemptions recognise the knowledge and qualifications you've already achieved, but they don't necessarily mean you'll remember every topic when you return to studying.

This is particularly important when progressing to more advanced papers, where you'll often need to apply knowledge from earlier stages of your qualification.

For example, ACCA students moving on to Strategic Professional exams may find that gaps in their underpinning knowledge make some of the more advanced topics harder to understand.

Before starting a new subject:

• Check the syllabus to identify any areas of earlier learning you'll need.
• Review your previous study materials, notes and revision resources.
• Identify topics you're less confident about.
• Spend time revisiting the fundamentals before tackling more advanced concepts.

You don't need to repeat an entire qualification. Focus on the areas that will help you understand your current studies.

3. Study in focused 60–90 minute blocks, consistently

When you're getting back into studying, don't expect to sit down for several hours and immediately concentrate as you might have done before.

Your concentration and study habits may take a little time to return. That's perfectly normal.

Start with focused study sessions of around 60–90 minutes, with a short break in between if needed. This gives you enough time to work through a topic, watch a tutor video or complete some question practice without trying to cram too much into one sitting.

The key is consistency.

Rather than leaving everything until the weekend or the final few weeks before your exam, spread your learning across the weeks leading up to it.

Try to include a mixture of:

• Learning new topics.
• Reviewing previously covered material.
• Practising exam-style questions.
• Revisiting areas where you need more support.

Don't worry if you don't understand everything immediately. Professional qualifications require time, repetition and practice. Build your knowledge gradually rather than expecting instant results.

4. Create a realistic study timetable

One of the best ways to get back into a study routine is to create a timetable.

Before you start, think about when you can realistically study during the week. You might have evenings available, prefer early morning sessions or have more time at weekends.

Be honest about what you can manage. A timetable that looks impressive but doesn't fit your lifestyle won't be much use.

Your timetable should include time for:

• Learning and working through your course materials.
• Practising questions and applying your knowledge.
• Reviewing topics you find challenging.
• Completing mock exams and revising before your exam.

It's also worth letting family and friends know when you plan to study. Having their support can make it easier to protect your study time.

A simple weekly study timetable

Here's an example of how you could organise your study time around a full-time working week.

This gives you around six hours of structured study each week, with some flexibility to catch up if you need it.

You can adjust the timetable to suit your circumstances and the study hours recommended for your qualification and exam.

Most importantly, build in breaks and time away from your studies. Rest is part of a sustainable study routine.

5. Use 10–15 minute micro-sessions during commutes and breaks

You don't have to be sitting at your desk with your study materials open to make progress.

Short bursts of learning can be a useful way to reinforce what you've already studied, particularly when you're short on time.

Think about the small pockets of spare time you have during the day:

• Your lunch break at work.
• Your commute, if you're travelling by public transport.
• Waiting for an appointment.
• A quiet moment between other commitments.

You could use these opportunities to:

• Complete a few multiple-choice questions.
• Review flashcards or key definitions.
• Practise calculations.
• Listen to a relevant tutor recording.
• Test yourself on topics you've already covered.

Even 10–15 minutes of focused revision can help reinforce your knowledge.

These shorter sessions shouldn't replace your main study timetable, but they can complement it and help you make better use of the time available.

6. Practise exam questions and use all your available resources

Reading your study materials is important, but understanding a topic and being able to apply it in an exam are two different things.

Regular question practice helps you identify gaps in your knowledge, become familiar with the exam format and build confidence in applying what you've learned.

As you progress through your studies:

• Complete practice questions alongside your learning.
• Review your answers and understand why you got something wrong.
• Revisit topics where you're consistently losing marks.
• Practise working within exam time limits.
• Complete full mock exams under timed conditions.

During the final month before your exam, aim to complete one timed mock exam each week. Allow enough time afterwards to review your performance and address any weaknesses.

Make the most of your study resources

If you're studying with Kaplan, make sure you use the learning and revision resources available as part of your course. These can help you revisit difficult topics, reinforce your understanding and prepare for your exams.

If you're unsure which resources are available or how best to use them, speak to your tutor or contact Kaplan for guidance.

Your eight-week return-to-study plan

If you've been away from studying for a while, having a clear plan can make the transition much easier.

The following eight-week example gives you a structured way to rebuild your knowledge, develop your exam technique and regain confidence.

Adapt it to your qualification, exam date and the amount of preparation you need.

How much time should you dedicate to studying?

There isn't a single number of hours that works for everyone. Your study requirements will depend on the qualification, subject, previous knowledge and exam date.

Check the recommended study hours for your particular qualification and course, then build a realistic weekly timetable around them.

The most important thing is to make steady progress and avoid leaving too much work until the final few weeks.

Ready to get back into studying?

Returning to study after a long break doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start with a manageable workload, refresh your knowledge, create a realistic timetable and build your confidence through regular practice.

You don't need to do everything at once. Consistent effort, a clear plan and the right support can help you get back on track and move towards your next exam with confidence.

Remember, you're not on your own

Getting back into studying can feel challenging, particularly when you're balancing your qualification with work and other commitments. At Kaplan, we're committed to supporting your well-being as well as your learning. Our well-being champions, trained Mental Health First Aiders, and supportive tutors are here to help you throughout your studies.

Find out more about how Kaplan supports learner well-being and the support available to you.