Deferral Eligibility

You may request to defer your enrollment for one semester or one year. JMU does not offer deferrals beyond one year.

Prior to your intended start term, you may complete no more than eight credit hours of coursework at another institution. If you plan to exceed this limit, you are not eligible to defer and must reapply for your new intended start term.

You may qualify for special considerations if you are called to active duty.

How to Request a Deferral

To request a deferral, email gapyear@jmu.edu with:

• Your full name and nine-digit JMU ID number
• A description of your plans during the gap period
• The term in which you intend to enroll
• An acknowledgment of JMU's eight-credit guideline
  • You may be asked to sign a confirmation letter

Your enrollment deposit must be paid before a request will be reviewed.

Deadline to Submit a Request

Deferral requests must be submitted at least two weeks before the start of the semester for which you have been admitted.

Once finalized, the Office of Admissions will share your updated status with the appropriate JMU offices.

What Happens Next

You will receive written notification once the Director of Admissions has reviewed your request. If your deferral is approved, you will also be informed when The One Book becomes available for your new start term.

Your enrollment deposit will automatically roll over to the new term and will be applied to your bill. Please note: the deposit is non-refundable if you choose not to enroll.