College, grad school or medical residency out of state, in a particular area of specialization, is as beyond control as US Armed Force deployments, or employment. One can always choose not to work away from spouse, or even quit US Armed Forces. Flipping burgers in a state on the other side of the country is employment related, but doubt that could be dressed as involuntary separation. Similarly, a po-dunk 1-2 year cert widely available from any community college across the US, wouldn't be a strong exemption, but highly selective college and post-grad programs would be a strong case. Crucial point is, is there sufficient and well-presented evidence to make the case that the couple continues to be in a healthy marriage, but living apart for a reasons other than break down of the marriage, marital woes, etc. Seems like the OP made the case in their favor.