Still interested in studying at Polytechnique Montréal, but prefer to begin your studies next term? Polytechnique Montréal allows deferral for up to three consecutive terms (fall, winter and summer), but specific conditions may apply to students admitted to a research program.

When do classes start? When should I arrive at Polytechnique Montréal? Should I defer my arrival? For more information, see the Start of classes section below.

Research programs (Thesis Masters and PhD)

Before deferring your admission to a summer term, we encourage you to check the course offerings in your program for this term, as it is generally very limited. If necessary, validate your options with your Research Supervisor.

If your admission letter is still valid, you do not have to inform the Registrar of your intention to defer the start of your program, but you will need to contact your Research Supervisor to ensure that your arrival at a later term will not have a major impact on the project to which you had been assigned and, if applicable, that the financial aid which had been promised to you can also be deferred.

NON-Thesis Masters and DESS

Before deferring your admission to a summer term, we encourage you to check the course offerings in your program for this term, as it is generally very limited. If necessary, validate your options with your Supervisor.

If your admission letter is still valid, you do not need to notify the Registrar's Office or your Supervisor about your intention to defer your admission.

***IMPORTANT FOR International students***

Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) for studies

Your CAQ for Studies certificate remains valid if you have to postpone the start of your program to a later term.

Study permit

The letter of introduction for a study permit issued by a Canadian Visa Office maintains its validity in the event of deferral to the following term. No further action is needed, but just make sure that you can enter Canada before the deadline indicated on the letter.

If you have had an immigration medical examination and you delay the start of your program, you may have to take the examination again before coming to Canada.  The results of your exam remain valid for 12 months from the day you take it. For more information on the medical examination.

Entry to Canada

If you have to postpone the start of your program, you should also postpone your arrival in Canada. Immigration regulations require that international students begin full-time studies as soon as they arrive. Failure to do so may result in:

• Refusal of entry upon arrival in Canada
• Refusal of a future application to extend your stay

Please note that it is strictly forbidden to work in Canada before the start of your program.