Deferrals Procedure

1. Purpose

1.1. This procedure describes the processes for managing student program deferrals.

1.2. This procedure should be read in conjunction with the Admissions Policy and the Enrolment Policy.  

2. Scope 

2.1. This procedure applies to all students in Adelaide University undergraduate coursework programs.

2.2. Deferrals from research degree programs are subject to the Research Degree Policy and associated procedures.

3. Procedure

3.1. Unless otherwise worded in the relevant program rules, domestic undergraduate students may defer the start of their Adelaide University program at the point of receiving an offer and before the Census Date of the first study period in which they are due to enrol.

3.2. If a student receives an offer for entry at the start of the year, they can normally defer for 12 months.

3.3. Students must ensure their personal details and contact details are up to date, to receive the new deferred offer.

3.4. Domestic postgraduate students are unable to defer the start of their program. Students will need to re-apply through the standard admission processes when they are ready to study.

3.5. International students who have received a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) cannot defer the start of their program unless there are Compassionate or Compelling Circumstances.

4. Definitions 

4.1. Census Date is the date within each study period by which a student's enrolment must be finalised for a course, and applicable fees and charges are incurred. It is the last day that a student can withdraw from a course and have it deleted from their academic record.

It is also the deadline for various financial requirements, including submission of request for Commonwealth support and HECS-HELP form; submission of request for FEE-HELP Assistance; payment of any up-front payment of student contribution; obtaining a HECS-HELP loan; or supplying a Tax File Number.

4.2. Compassionate or Compelling Circumstances for holders of international student visas are those beyond the control of the student and have an impact on the student’s academic progress or wellbeing. Examples include:

a. Serious illness or injury supported by a medical certificate.

b. Bereavement of close family members such as a parent or grandparent. A death certificate should be provided, where possible.

c. Major political upheaval or natural disaster in the home country requiring emergency travel, which has impacted on the student’s studies.

d. Adelaide University is unable to offer a prerequisite course.

e. Inability to begin studying on the program’s commencement date due to a delay in receiving a student visa.

f. A traumatic experience, supported by police or a psychologist statement, such as involvement in, or witnessing a serious accident, or witnessing or being the victim of a serious crime.

4.3. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is an official document issued by Adelaide University to international students to confirm enrolment status as required by the Australian Government for student visa holders.

Document authorities and history

Related documents