Janice Lozano
International students in the USA on a student visa can defer their studies for a variety of reasons, including illness, injury, or other compelling circumstances beyond their control. The process of deferring admission typically involves submitting a written request to the admissions department and providing updated documentation, such as an Immigration Verification Form or a new I-20 form. Students should be aware that deferring studies may impact their visa status, and they may need to apply for an extension or a new visa to remain in the USA. It is important to carefully review the policies of the specific educational institution and comply with any applicable deadlines for requesting deferrals. International students can seek guidance from international student advisors or admissions counsellors to navigate the deferral process effectively and ensure compliance with visa requirements.
International students deferring studies in the USA
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can international students defer studies in the USA? | Yes, international students can defer their studies in the USA, but the process and requirements may vary depending on the institution and the specific circumstances. |
| What are the requirements for deferring studies? | The requirements for deferring studies may include submitting an application, providing supporting evidence or documentation, and obtaining approval from the institution. Some institutions may require compassionate or compelling reasons, such as serious illness or injury, and students may need to provide relevant documents. |
| How long can international students defer their studies? | International students can usually take a leave of absence for up to six months. If the reason for the leave persists beyond six months, students should speak to an international student advisor. |
| What happens to the student visa during the deferral period? | Students may need to apply for a new student visa or an extension, depending on their specific situation. Maintaining visa status during the deferral period is important, and seeking advice is recommended. |
| Are there any restrictions during the deferral period? | During the deferral period, there are usually no restrictions on the number of hours students are permitted to work. However, students should be aware of the potential consequences of visa cancellation if they defer for non-genuine reasons. |
| What about the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) number? | In some cases, deferring admission may result in a change in the SEVIS number. It is important to contact the institution and relevant authorities to understand the specific implications and requirements. |
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What You'll Learn
International students can defer studies in the USA
International students can defer their studies in the USA, but the process and requirements may vary depending on the educational institution and the specific circumstances of the student. Here is a step-by-step guide on how international students can defer their studies in the USA:
Understanding Deferment Policies
Before initiating the deferment process, international students should familiarise themselves with the deferment policies of their educational institution. These policies outline the specific circumstances under which a student may be permitted to defer their studies, such as compassionate or compelling reasons beyond the student's control. It is important to note that each institution has its own policies and procedures, so students should refer to their university's website or handbook for detailed information.
Submitting a Request for Deferment
To initiate the deferment process, international students must submit a formal request to their educational institution. This typically involves completing and submitting an application form or a written request to the relevant department or administrator. Depending on the institution, students may be required to provide supporting documentation or evidence to justify their request for deferment. Common reasons for deferring studies include medical issues, financial difficulties, or personal challenges.
Maintaining Visa Status
One of the critical considerations for international students when deferring their studies is maintaining their visa status. In the USA, international students holding an F1 visa must be enrolled as full-time students to maintain their visa status. If a student defers their studies, they may need to apply for a new visa or an extension, such as a new Certificate of Enrolment (CoE) or an updated I-20 form. It is important to consult with the institution's international student services or an immigration advisor to ensure that visa requirements are met during the deferment period.
Understanding Financial Implications
Deferring studies may have financial implications, including tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with extending the duration of studies. International students should carefully review the financial policies of their institution regarding deferment, including any fees or refunds applicable during the deferment period. Additionally, students should consider the impact of currency exchange rates and ensure they have adequate financial resources to support their studies upon their return.
Communicating with the Institution
Throughout the deferment process, it is essential for international students to maintain open communication with their institution. Students should clarify any concerns or questions they may have and stay informed about the status of their deferment request. Additionally, seeking guidance from an international student adviser or a designated support service within the institution can help navigate the deferment process and ensure a smooth transition back to studies at the appropriate time.
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Reasons for deferral: serious illness, injury, or other compelling reasons
As an international student in the USA, you can take a leave of absence or defer your studies for serious illnesses, injuries, or other compelling reasons. This leave of absence is typically granted for six months at most. If your situation persists for more than six months, you will need to speak to an international student advisor.
If you are applying for a leave of absence due to a serious illness or injury, you will need to provide certain documents. These may include a medical certificate, a letter from your doctor, or an approval letter from your sponsor. The application process may vary depending on your specific situation and university policies.
It is important to note that you should apply for a leave of absence or deferral before the census date of your study period. If you are a new student in your first year and first semester of studies, you should apply for a deferral rather than a leave of absence.
Some compelling reasons for deferral may include:
- Serious and long-lasting illnesses: This could include physical or mental health issues that significantly impact your ability to study.
- Injuries: A severe injury that prevents you from attending classes or participating in your course may be a valid reason for deferral.
- Personal or family emergencies: Unexpected events, such as the death of a family member, can be a valid reason to defer your studies.
- Financial difficulties: If you are facing significant financial challenges that affect your ability to continue your studies, this could be considered a compelling reason.
- Other unforeseen circumstances: Any unforeseen and difficult situation that arises and affects your ability to study may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
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Application process: what documents are required?
The application process and requirements for deferring studies vary across institutions. However, here is a general outline of the process and the documents you may need to provide as an international student in the USA:
Application Process:
- Check your institution's website for specific procedures and requirements. For example, the University of Canberra requires international students to submit an application for "Leave from Study – Intermission for International Student Visa Holders".
- Consult with an international student adviser or your academic advisor, especially if you are a new student or if your reason for deferral persists beyond six months.
- Gather the required documents to support your application (see below for more details).
- Submit your application and supporting documents before the relevant deadline. For example, some institutions encourage submission before the census date to avoid academic penalties and additional fees.
- Allow sufficient time for processing. For instance, Northeastern University states that e-form processing can take up to 15 business days.
Required Documents:
- Evidence supporting your reason for deferral: This may include medical certificates, doctor's letters, or other relevant documents.
- Approval letter from your sponsor (if applicable): If you are a sponsored student, you will need to provide an approval letter from your sponsor.
- Original documents or certified copies: Institutions typically require original documents or certified copies and may only accept documents in English.
- Confirmation of Enrolment (if applicable): If you are applying for a new student visa or changing your existing visa status, you may need to obtain a new Confirmation of Enrolment from your education provider.
Please note that the specific documents required may vary depending on your institution and your individual circumstances. It is essential to carefully review the policies and requirements of your educational institution and visa regulations to ensure you have all the necessary documentation for a successful deferral application.
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Maintaining visa status while on a leave of absence
International students in the United States on an F or M visa are allowed to take a leave of absence for a maximum of six months. If the reason for the leave persists beyond six months, the student must consult an international student advisor. To be granted a leave of absence, students must submit an application and have it approved. Students may be required to submit certain documents, such as evidence of sufficient funding, and approval letters from sponsors.
Students on an F visa share the same primary purpose for coming to the United States, which is to study. Therefore, students should not take any action that detracts from that purpose. F students may be authorized to work in certain cases, but only when authorized by a DSO or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Working without authorization will result in the student being forced to leave the country immediately, and they may not be able to re-enter.
Students on an F-1 visa who take a leave of absence are required to depart the U.S. during the academic year. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as having a documented medical reason. In such cases, approval must be requested from the Office of Accessible Education (OAE) before submitting the leave of absence e-form.
Students on a J-1 visa issued by Stanford must contact a student advisor at the Bechtel International Center to get approval for their leave of absence. If the J-1 visa has been issued by another sponsor, approval must be sought from that sponsor.
Students who have been on a leave of absence for more than five months will need to apply for a new I-20 in Bechtel Connect and pay the SEVIS fee again. They will be able to enter the U.S. no earlier than 30 days before the start date of the quarter for which they will re-enroll.
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Reinstating studies after deferral
International students on an F1 visa in the US can defer their studies for a number of reasons, including family situations, financial situations, or medical conditions. If you have deferred your studies and wish to reinstate your F-1 student status, there are a number of steps you need to take. Firstly, you must be pursuing or planning to pursue a full course of study at your school. You must not have been engaged in unauthorized work and must not be deportable under US immigration laws.
Secondly, you must establish that the reason for your deferral was beyond your control, such as a serious injury or illness, school closure, or a natural disaster. Alternatively, you must prove that the failure to approve your reinstatement would result in extreme hardship. In this case, you will need to provide a cover letter detailing the circumstances that led to your loss of F-1 status and why these circumstances were beyond your control or resulted in extreme hardship.
Additionally, you will need to provide proof of any reasons stated in your cover letter. This could include a notice from your school describing closure after a natural disaster or a letter from your doctor and hospital records if you were sick or injured. You will also need to provide a number of other documents, including a newly issued I-20 form, a photocopy of your old I-20, proof of financial support, a photocopy of your passport, a photocopy of your Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, and a photocopy of your latest transcript and upcoming course registration.
It is important to note that if you have overstayed your permitted time under your visa, reinstatement alone might not be enough to let you back into the US. In this case, you may need to visit a US consulate for a new visa. There is also a deadline for applying for reinstatement; you must submit your application to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within five months of falling out of status, unless exceptional circumstances prevented you from filing sooner.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can defer their studies in the USA, but the process and requirements may vary depending on the educational institution and the specific circumstances of the student. Students should refer to their institution's policies and procedures for deferring studies.
The requirements for deferring studies vary by institution, but generally, international students need to provide evidence of compassionate or compelling circumstances beyond their control that affect their course progress or well-being. Some common reasons for deferment include serious illness or injury, and students may be required to provide relevant documents and medical certificates.
To defer studies, international students typically need to submit an application for a leave of absence or deferral, which must be approved by the educational institution. It is recommended to apply for deferment before the census date of the study period to avoid academic penalties and additional fees. Students may also need to provide updated documentation of financial support and maintain their student visa status.
