Deferral Process and Rules

If you are unable to begin your program on time, you have the option to defer your program start date. 

Deferral Rules  –

  • You can only defer once without re-applying for admission.
  • You can only defer within one year of your original Program Start Date on your I-20 or DS-2019.   
  • You will not receive a new acceptance letter or scholarship letter with your deferred I-20 or DS-2019.  


Deferral Process –

  1. Complete the Deferral Request by the deadline. The deadline is three weeks from the Program Start Date on your I-20 or DS-2019. To access the Deferral Request, log visit emporia-isss.terradotta.com and log in with SSO using your ESU credentials. Select Start New Request and find Deferral Request. Select Start Request. 
  2. Contact your academic advisor to drop out of classes if you are enrolled. You will be charged and required to pay for the classes you remain enrolled in. 
  3. Receive your updated I-20 or DS-2019. 


Deferral Frequently Asked Questions–


Do I need to wait for the updated I-20 or DS-2019 to make a visa interview appointment? 

You can use your current I-20 or DS-2019 but bring the updated document to your visa appointment. If your SEVIS record is cancelled, you will need to wait for a new I-20. 


I missed the deadline to complete the Deferral Request; what can I do to get my admission deferred? 

Your only option is to re-apply for admission. 


My SEVIS record is cancelled, what do I do? 

You must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee again after getting a new I-20. Use the new I-20 to schedule a visa interview appointment because your SEVIS ID will change. 


I was denied a visa, should I try again? 

Your chances of getting a visa are now significantly reduced, although it is still possible.