Deferring University: A Guide For International Students

Deferring university admission is a common and acceptable option for students, including international students, who may have various reasons for wanting to delay their enrolment. International students may experience visa delays or denials, which can impact their ability to attend their program of choice. In such cases, prospective students can request a deferral of their admission and their I-20 or DS-2019 by contacting their admission counsellor and submitting the necessary documentation. Aside from visa issues, other valid reasons for deferring university admission include travel opportunities, internships, mandatory military service, family priorities, health reasons, or other unexpected situations. Students should be mindful of deadlines and university policies when requesting a deferral, as well as the potential impact on scholarships and test score validity.

Reasons for deferring a university program

Taking a gap year is a common reason for deferring a university program. This can allow students to take time for self-growth, travel, or experiential learning. Universities recognize that gap years can result in more mature and dedicated students who bring diverse experiences to campus. Students may also want to defer their university admission to take an internship, pursue a job opportunity, or save money. The cost of a college program can be significant, and tuition in the United States is twice as high as in many other universities worldwide. Therefore, spending a year working and saving money can help offset some of the costs.

Additionally, visa delays or visa denials are common reasons for deferring a university program. To study in the United States, international students typically require one of three types of student visas. The visa process cannot be started until 120 days before the program start date, and appointment wait times can vary greatly by location and country. For example, the average appointment wait time in Frankfurt is 51 calendar days. If a student's visa is denied, they can schedule another interview and present better documentation. However, if there is not enough time before the program start date, they should request a deferral of their admission.

It is important to note that deferring university admission is a big decision that requires careful planning. Students should research their options and understand the requirements and impact on scholarships, grants, or financial aid. While deferring can provide various benefits, it is generally recommended to limit the deferral period to one year to ensure it is a positive gain and not a sign of unpreparedness.

How to write a deferral letter

If you need to defer your admission to a university program, you will typically need to submit a formal request in the form of a letter. The specifics of this process will vary depending on the university, so it is important to research their policies and deadlines.

First Paragraph

Start by stating your request for a deferral and include key information such as the program you have been accepted to and your applicant ID. Then, explain why the university is a good fit for you. Finish the introductory paragraph by stating that you wish to defer your admission and explain your reason for doing so, such as pursuing a gap year, dealing with personal challenges, or taking advantage of professional opportunities.

Second to Fifth Paragraphs

Use the following paragraphs to provide details about your plans during the deferral period. If you are taking a gap year, include your specific itinerary and what you aim to achieve and learn during that time. Be as specific as possible, mentioning the time, place, and any official programs or internships you plan to join. If you are dealing with personal challenges, explain how taking time off will help you address these issues and allow you to be more focused and prepared when you do attend university.

Remember, the purpose of the letter is to demonstrate that you have a concrete plan for the deferral period and that this time will ultimately benefit your educational goals.

Additional Considerations

Keep in mind that different universities have different requirements for deferral letters, so be sure to tailor your letter accordingly. It is also important to be mindful of deadlines, as most colleges set strict deadlines for receiving deferral requests. Finally, consider the potential implications of deferring your admission, such as the impact on financial aid offers and your expected family contribution (EFC).

Deadlines for submitting a deferral request

For example, at UA Little Rock, J-1 students must request their admission deferral by the 11th day of class in the original intended semester. In contrast, institutions in the UK and New Zealand are known for having a more streamlined process, and students can typically secure deferred admission with relative ease by providing a valid reason.

It is worth noting that deferral requests might not be accepted for certain subjects, such as medicine, and scholarships for deferred admissions are not guaranteed. Therefore, it is essential to check with your university and the scholarship awarding body before submitting your request. Additionally, consider the validity of your test scores, as most competitive exams have a test score validity of two to four years.

When submitting your request, ensure that your application is complete and reaches the university admissions office on time. The deadline is usually three to five weeks before the class start date, and late submissions may not be granted. Once your request is submitted, wait for the admissions office to evaluate it, and confirm your deferral if it is accepted.

What happens after a deferral request is accepted

Once your deferral request has been accepted, you can start planning your gap year. Many students take this time to travel, gain work experience, or immerse themselves in a field of interest. This can help you develop valuable skills and experiences that will make you a more mature and dedicated student when you eventually start university.

It is important to note that the impact of deferral on your financial aid and course choice may vary depending on the university and scholarship provider. Some universities may allow you to defer your admission without affecting your financial aid package, while others may not. Similarly, some institutions may guarantee your admission into the university but not necessarily into the same major or program of study. Therefore, it is crucial to check with your university and scholarship provider to understand the implications of deferral on your specific situation.

Additionally, if you are an international student, you should pay attention to the timing required to process your visa for the deferred semester. The visa process cannot start until 120 days before you are scheduled to start your program, so you should factor this into your plans.

Furthermore, some universities may require you to pay a deposit to hold your spot during the deferral period. This deposit fee can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, and it is typically non-refundable if you decide not to pursue an academic program during your gap year.

Overall, having your deferral request accepted provides you with the flexibility to pursue other opportunities before starting university. However, it is important to carefully consider the potential implications for your financial aid, course choice, and visa status, and be prepared to adapt your plans accordingly.

Impact of deferral on scholarships and test scores

Deferring your university program as an international student can have varying impacts on your scholarships and test scores, depending on the specific policies of your university and scholarship provider. Here are some key points to consider:

Impact on Scholarships:

• It is important to note that the impact of deferral on scholarships can vary depending on the scholarship provider. Some scholarships may have specific requirements and conditions that must be met for the funds to be disbursed. Therefore, it is crucial to contact your scholarship provider directly to understand their policies on deferrals and how it might affect your scholarship award.
• In some cases, scholarships may have strict timelines and eligibility criteria that must be adhered to. Deferring your university program may result in a change in your scholarship status, as the funds could be allocated to another student for that academic year.
• However, many universities recognize the benefits of gap years and encourage students to take time off before starting their studies. This could work in your favor when it comes to scholarships, as some institutions may allow you to retain your scholarship upon deferral, especially if you can demonstrate a valid reason for the deferral.

Impact on Test Scores:

• For international students, the impact of deferral on test scores, such as language proficiency tests, may depend on the validity period of the test scores. Universities often have specific requirements regarding the validity of such tests, typically ranging from two to three years. Deferring your program may result in your test scores expiring if they are close to the end of their validity period. In such cases, you may need to retake the tests to meet the university's requirements for enrollment.
• In some cases, universities may allow for exceptions, especially if you have valid reasons for deferring. They may grant you an extension on the validity of your test scores, provided you supply appropriate documentation and a compelling rationale for the deferral.
• It is worth noting that certain tests, like the GRE or GMAT, are valid for up to five years. If your test scores fall within this extended validity period, you may not need to worry about retaking the exams, even with a deferral.

To summarize, the impact of deferring a university program on scholarships and test scores can vary. It is essential to communicate with your university and scholarship provider to understand their specific policies and make informed decisions. Being proactive and providing valid justifications for your deferral can increase the chances of a positive outcome regarding your scholarships and test score requirements.

Frequently asked questions