We recognize that circumstances may arise that require an applicant to seek a delay in starting their studies. Graduate Admissions will consider requests for a deferral for a minimum of one semester to a maximum of one year (3 semesters) provided the following criteria are met:
- You have received an offer of admission.
- Conditions of your admission have been met (e.g. final transcripts have been submitted).
- For international applicants, the $1,500 deposit must be paid prior to requesting the deferral.
Deferrals are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and not all deferral requests can be approved. You may request a deferral only once.
Note: The MEd Counseling program and the MBA program do not defer admission. Deferrals are not permitted for applicants who will attend another institution during the deferral period.
Deadline to request a deferral
| Admission to the Fall (September) semester: | August 15 |
| Admission to the Winter (January) semester: | December 15 |
| Admission to the Spring (May) semester: | April 15 |
A deferral requires:
- Program approval.
- Payment of a $250 deferral deposit.
After we review your request for deferral, we will contact you with the decision and, if approved, provide instructions on how to make payment.
To request a deferral, please complete this form and submit by email to graduate-admissions@unbc.ca by the deadline noted above.
Frequently asked questions
How can I pay my deferral deposit?
Information on how to make payment can be found on our website.
If I chose not to attend after I have deferred admission, will be deposit(s) be refunded?
The $250 deferral deposit is non-refundable. For international applicants, the $1,500 deposit is non-refundable except in cases of study permit refusal and deadlines and fees apply. For full details, please visit this website.
I am still waiting for my study permit and cannot arrive before classes start. Can I start my studies remotely?
Programs that are on-campus do not offer a remote start option. There may be limited exceptions for students in thesis and doctoral programs. Each situation is evaluated on an individual basis. Please contact graduate-admissions@unbc.ca and include the following information:
- Confirmation from your supervisor that a remote start is an available option
- The plan for what work you will be completing remotely (including course registration details)
- Your anticipated arrival date and a rationale for the delay.
Please note that you will be required to pay tuition by the first day of classes, the international tuition deposit will be non-refundable and you will not receive a refund of tuition fees if your study permit is subsequently denied.