Deferment lets you take an approved, temporary break from your studies without withdrawing from the university. You can defer an entire semester (a Full Deferment) or only some courses (a Partial or Course-Specific Deferment), then resume in a later semester within the approved period. Before you decide, it helps to understand how deferment works and how it may affect your journey.
Note Examination deferment and on-demand exams are handled separately. See the Examinations category for that process.
All registered, active learners are eligible. A deferment may be granted for a minimum of one semester and a maximum of two consecutive semesters. Your student record will reflect an approved pause for the period granted.
Semester deferment is available from the start of a semester up to six weeks in, typically before the course registration window closes. (Course-specific deferment requests should reach the university within the first four weeks.) Requests after the applicable window may not be accommodated.
Note If you apply for a semester deferment after the deadline and have already enrolled, that semester's tuition is considered utilised and cannot be transferred forward. If you did not enroll in any courses in an active semester, you do not need to submit a deferment request.
Log in to the SIS and open the Deferment menu.
Select the deferment type (for example, Semester Deferment or Course Deferment).
Choose your Success Advisor and, for a semester deferment, the cohort you wish to defer to.
Provide your reason and upload any supporting documents.
Review your entries and submit the request.
To keep track of your request, open a Deferment Request on the Support Portal and wait for the feedback on your request.
Depending on your reason, you may be asked for supporting evidence such as medical certificates, a letter explaining extenuating circumstances, employment documents, or other relevant proof. Health, financial, and work-related reasons are all acceptable, and each request is reviewed by the processing team.
Deferment is never automatic; every request is reviewed individually. Decisions are communicated within five business days, by email or a call from your Success Advisor. All official updates go to your university email, so check it regularly. Do not assume your deferment is approved until you receive confirmation.
When you are ready to resume, notify your Success Advisor (or email success@miva.university) and raise a ticket on the Support Portal requesting course registration. Monitor official communications for any steps required before you return.
Will deferment affect my graduation date?
Yes, it may extend the time it takes to complete your programme.
Can I attend classes during a deferred semester?
No. Once approved, you do not take part in academic activities for that semester.
Can I cancel my deferment after approval?
If your circumstances change, contact the Success Team as soon as possible. Reversing a deferment is subject to university policy.
What is the semester credit load?
A minimum of 10 and a maximum of 24 credit units per semester.
Related articles: Changing Your Programme or Academic Level • Reduced Course Load and Extended Study Duration • Examination Deferment and On-Demand Exams • Registering Your Courses for a New Semester
Need help? Contact your Success Advisor at success@miva.university, reach the Success Advisory WhatsApp channel, or raise a ticket on the Support Portal.