Deferment of degree studies

In the Swedish context deferment is only granted should extenuating circumstances arise. If you have been admitted to a bachelor's or master's programme you can in some instances apply to defer the commencement of your studies.

Reasons for deferment of studies

Deferment of studies may be granted if there are extenuating circumstances. Reasons for deferment of studies can be social, medical or other extenuating circumstances such as:

the care of a child
mandatory military service
denied leave of absence for studies from your employer

Deferment of studies cannot be granted for reasons related to your current economic situation or issues with housing/accommodation.

Your reasons for deferment are tested individually. They should be of such a nature that you are unable to control them yourself. If you are applying for a deferral, you must provide your reasons with a written certificate. Deferment can be granted for a maximum of 18 months.

If you are required to pay tuition fees you must pay the first instalment of tuition before the deadline in order for your application for deferment of studies to be assessed. Should your deferral request be granted you must then apply for a refund of the tuition fee.

How to apply for deferment

Application for deferral should be made as soon as you find out that you cannot start your studies. However, in order to be granted a deferment, you must be admitted to the programme you wish to start at a later date. The latest you can submit the application is before the registration period closes for your programme, this is usually mid-September.

Application for deferment is made on the form called Deferment of Studies, which you send, together with a copy of the admission notice and the documentation proving the grounds, to:

Linköping University
Admissions
58183 Linköping
Sweden

Form: Application for Deferment of Studies (PDF)

Beginning your studies after deferral

If you are granted a deferral, you must save the notification you receive stating this. When you are ready to start again, you must submit a new application by the deadline, via universityadmissions.se. Submit your letter from LiU granting you deferral together with your new application.

Preparing for your programme

Admitted

Newly admitted to a degree programme at LiU? Everything you need to know to prepare to move to Sweden, the important deadlines for tuition fees and residence permits, and getting set up as a new student in Sweden.