College and University Admissions during COVID-19

The COVID-19 situation is quite fluid where changes occur at a rapid rate on a daily basis, it makes it difficult for decision making to be conducted in an often-timely manner. This information seeks to provide a general overview as it relates to college and university admissions during this crisis.

Here is what we know

• For September 2020, some schools will commence classes online for a number of programs. There are some programs that may be offered in person; however, it is imperative that students check with their individual school to verify whether their program will be offered online or in person


• Tuition fees payment deadlines have been extended until mid-June for many institutions.  


• Study permit applications for Canada are still open and can be submitted. Biometrics are still not available as most visa application centres are closed. A 90-day extension is being granted on applications submitted without biometrics.

• Students seeking to commence studies at a Canadian institution this September, whether online or in person, you are required to apply for your study permit.


• The UK Home Office has updated their immigration policy for international students inside of the UK and those outside of the UK seeking to commence studies this September. 

• New students outside of the UK seeking to commence studies this September, you are required to apply for your Tier 4 visa, should you be pursuing studies in person.


• New students outside of the UK who will be commencing their studies online do not have to apply for the Tier 4 visa. However, to be eligible for the post study work visa, persons must have travelled to the UK by April 2021, and will be required to complete at least their final semester of studies in the UK.  ​

• Student visa applications for the United States of America are on hold as there is no processing of non-immigrant visas at this time. – No further update at this time.


• For all other study destinations, travel regulations may still restrict the ability to commence in person classes. It is recommended that you reach out to the institution directly.


• Freshman students opting not to commence studies online for September 2020 may be able to request a deferral until the next available intake period (semester). The process to defer may vary by institution. In some cases, the payment of a deposit may still be required.


• Applications for January 2021 have started. 


• When it comes to final exams and transcripts, the policy varies by school. It is understood that some final exams have been postponed or cancelled while other examination boards are considering the rescheduling of examinations. We understand that rescheduling will impact on the receipt of final grades which are part of conditional offers. Some colleges/universities have exercised some leniency given the situation; however, please note that decisions will vary by school.


• Schools are actively following up with students indirectly or directly regarding this situation. Most schools by now have a dedicated webpage on matters related to COVID-19. It is strongly recommended that you continuously checkout these sources.

What we do not know

• We cannot say at this time whether persons will be able to travel to commence their studies in September 2020. Decisions on these matters are subject to government regulations on health and safety as well as travel.


• While there is an expectation that in-person classes are expected for January 2021, there is no confirmed decision at this time given that such a decision will be guided by government regulations based on the COVID-19 situation.

How to navigate this situation

• Talk with your family before making a decision and ensure that you have all of the facts before you decide on your next steps.


• It is important that a decision on which offer of acceptance you would like to accept. This makes it easy when it comes to follow up.


• It is not recommended to defer multiple offers. It is STRONGLY recommended that you decide which school and program is your preferred choice


• Persons seeking to defer, it is recommended that you speak with the institution to see what the process entails in order to know what steps to take.


• Utilise credit card payment options where possible to secure your seat in the program, should you be in a position to do so.


• If you are experiencing financial difficulty and you are unsure whether you will be able to commence your studies, whether online or in person, you are advised to notify the school.


• Be kind to yourself during this time as this is not a normal situation that we are in. ​