If you are an international student keen to pursue your studies in Canada, you may come across scenarios where you need to defer your admission after getting a visa. This article aims to help such students by providing useful guidelines and alternatives to maximize their time while waiting.

Deferring Admission After Getting a Visa for Canada

Here are the steps and eligibility requirements to follow while deferring your admission after receiving a visa for Canada:

• Contact Your School: You need to inform your institute’s admission office about your decision to defer. They will guide you with the process and documentation required to go ahead.
• Reasons for Deferral: You may need to defer due to a compelling reason, such as a medical emergency, an unexpected financial crisis, or personal reasons.
• Eligibility Criteria: Every school has its own criteria, but they generally allow deferral only once in a year, for a maximum of one year from the original start date.
• Timelines and Deadlines: You should inform the school as early as feasible, as some institutes have specific deadlines for deferral.  

Common Reasons for Deferring Admission

Here are some of the most common scenarios where a student may choose to defer their admission:

• Medical Emergency: You or a family member may face a medical emergency requiring you to stay back home.
• Financial Struggles: Due to unforeseen financial struggles, students may need more time to prepare themselves financially for education overseas.
• Personal Emergencies: Family emergencies or personal circumstances may require you to defer your studies, but do keep in mind to contact your institute to check if this is possible.

Alternatives to Deferring Admission

If deferring is not a feasible option, here are a few alternatives that students can explore:

• Take Online Courses: You could use your time to take online courses in a subject that interests you or is relevant to your future course.
• Part-Time Work: Students may consider finding part-time work or internships related to their program of study to gain valuable experience.
• Travel and Explore Canada: Canada is a beautiful country, and students can use this time to explore the country and its culture.

Expanding on Alternatives

• Online Courses: Taking courses online is an excellent way to keep yourself engaged and improve your knowledge base. It is also a great way to prepare before beginning your studies.
• Part-Time Work: Finding employment in your desired field is an excellent way to gain valuable experience, especially in Canada, where you can network and learn about the industry.
• Travel: Canada is a picturesque country, and exploring it makes for an excellent learning experience.

Utilizing Your Time While Waiting

Here are some tips to help students make the most of their time while waiting:

• Improve Language Skills: Brush up on the language in which courses would be administered. For example, if courses are to be taught in English, you can take an online English proficiency test or work on improving your English skills.
• Research on Your Program: Start researching your program, the subjects within it, and related industries being worked in by graduates. This will give you an idea about what to expect and how to plan for the future.
• Plan for Financial Aid: International students may find financing education overseas challenging. Plan your financial aid; qualify for scholarships, loans, and grants available to international students.

Conclusion

Deferment of studies after obtaining a visa can be a difficult choice for international students. However, before making any decisions, students should explore all available options and make an informed decision. Discussing your situation with your school’s admission office is crucial; they can guide you and advise you on possible alternatives.

FAQs

What are the eligibility criteria to defer admission after getting a visa to Canada?

Every institution has its own eligibility criteria. However, the general criteria include deferral available only once in a year, for a maximum of one year from the original start date.

What are the alternatives to deferring admission?

The alternatives to deferring admission can include employment or internships related to the student’s chosen program, online courses, or exploring Canada.

How can students utilize their time while waiting to defer the admission?

Some useful ways to use time could be improving language skills, researching the program, and planning for financial aid.