You are only able to defer your studies in limited situations. (This information is in accordance to the National Code of Practice for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education to Overseas Students 2018). Once you have enrolled in a course, the institute is in a position to NOT ALLOW you to defer your studies. However, you may be eligible to defer on the grounds of compassionate and compelling circumstances if, for example, you have an illness evidenced by a doctor’s certificate or there are other exceptional circumstances beyond your control, like bereavement. If you defer your studies, the institute must report the variation of enrolment to the Department of Home Affairs through PRISMS. The deferral may affect your student visa so you are advised to contact the Department of Home Affairs A deferral cannot be granted unless you present the appropriate documentation e.g. airline tickets or proof of reason for deferral. To obtain approval, you need to contact Student Services Team 14 days prior to the requested deferral date. You can do this in person at Reception on Level 7, 628 Bourke Street, or by email: studentadmin@aapoly.edu.au
As an international student, you can defer your studies for a maximum period of one term or one semester. Once the deferral is processed, you will receive a written letter granting the deferral. It is your responsibility to ensure that your student visa duration can cover the whole period of your study, including the deferral period. In most circumstances, you may need to extend your student visa if your studies are deferred.
