Naturalisation - Absences from UK

[Leela]

Hello,

I have been in the UK for 6 years and have ILR. I am planning on going on an exchange year to a Belgium university and wanted to know if anybody can provide me with some advice on the matter of absence from the UK in the 3 years prior to applying for Naturalisation. If I were to apply when I get back, would an absence because of study (it is not a compulsory part of my degree) affect me negatively? Would I be better off not going and just start the application process asap?

Any advice is much appreciated.
Thank you.

[vinny]

If you are currently eligible, then it would be better to apply before you leave the UK, as absences will delay future applications. Use the NCS.

[Leela]

Thank you.

[JAJ]

If you get naturalised before going on exchange, you won't need a visa/permit for Belgium.