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How to defer
If you need to, you can postpone starting your course at Deakin. This is called deferring – and it allows you to keep your place at university for up to one year for domestic and international students. If you intend to defer, you should not enrol in your course.
Advice about deferring
We want to make sure your time at Deakin is as rewarding as it possibly can be – so if you need to wait until you take care of some personal, financial or professional obligations, you can arrange to postpone starting your studies.
Deferrals are limited to one year only, so plan carefully when deciding to defer.
If you'd like some advice about whether or not deferring is the right option for you, get in touch with one of our friendly Student Advisers.
Which offers can’t be deferred?
You can’t defer if you:
- have been re-admitted to a course
- are already enrolled
- are a cross-institutional student
- are studying a non-award unit(s)
- are a student who has received an offer for one of the following courses: Doctor of Medicine, Master of Professional Psychology, Master of Psychology (Clinical), Master of Psychology (Organisational), Doctor of Psychology (Clinical)
- have received an offer for a postgraduate course with Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) funding.
Deferring your offer
Deferring your direct offer
If you need to defer a direct offer, please complete the online deferral of offer form within five days of receiving your offer. You’ll receive an automatic reply upon submission and a confirmation once your deferral is approved and processed. It takes approximately 7 working days to process your deferral, although during peak periods, it may take longer.
If you haven’t received confirmation after ten working days, please email us.
Deferring your VTAC offer
To defer your VTAC offer from Deakin please complete the VTAC deferral of offer form by the deadline specified in your offer email. You will be presented with a receipt number as your deferral will be automatically approved.
International students
If you’re an international student and want to defer prior to enrolment, you’ll need to contact the Deakin staff member listed on your letter of offer.
Starting at Deakin after your deferral
When your deferral is finished and you’re due to start at Deakin, we’ll send you an email with enrolment advice. It’s important that we have your correct contact details. Make sure we have your current postal and email addresses at all times. To update your details submit an online enquiry.
Want to come back early or delay your return?
If you would like to return early, cancel your deferral or extend your deferral, please email us at defer@deakin.edu.au.
Remember, you cannot defer your place for longer than one year.
