Is there a way to turn off XP?

[BillHicks]

I play duo, but I want to level up some crafting before next session, but I don't want to level up my character.

[Cathy]

You cannot turn off gaining XP or stop from leveling up, though you can just not apply the extra points to your stats. You will still level.

Why does it matter?

[Nottingham]

For me, in a group that has decided to level and explore the world and quests together, I could grind in and return to areas we have already been to and attempt to find better items while staying at the same level as my friends.

[Flexible Knot]

Unfortunately, if you do anything other than strictly the main quest line, you will out-level your zone.