GT Language Institute — Student Refund & Deferral Policy

 

Quick summary:

  • Application fee is non-refundable.
  • If you cancel before the first class begins you can request a full refund (minus non-refundable fees) or defer payment to a future session (a $150 deferral fee applies).
  • No refunds after the first class begins. Refunds are only available if you cancel before the session's first scheduled class.
  • F-1 students: a $500 SEVIS/transfer processing fee applies; special rules below.

Before the session starts — Cancellation or deferral

  1. Complete the Change of Plans Form at istart.gatech.edu.
  2. If you paid tuition before classes started, you may choose either:
    • Full refund (minus any non-refundable fees), or
    • Deferral — move your payment to a future session. A deferral fee of $150 will apply.
  3. Deferrals depend on seat availability for the requested session.

After the session starts — Withdrawal

To withdraw, submit the completed Withdrawal Form at istart.gatech.edu, list your last date of attendance, and get approval from the Director or Associate Director.

Important — refunds are not available after the first class begins:

If you cancel or withdraw after the session's first scheduled class, you are not eligible for a refund. Refunds are only available for cancellations made before the first class begins.

  • Withdrawals after the first class begins: no refund; tuition is retained. Academic consequences (grades, probation) may apply.
  • Deferral requests must be submitted before the first class begins in order to be considered.

F-1 visa students — SEVIS & departure rules

  • SEVIS transfers can only happen after you complete GTLI registration.
  • There is a $500 non-refundable SEVIS/transfer processing fee paid at registration.
  • If you withdraw while on F-1 status, you must depart the United States within 15 calendar days of your withdrawal unless alternative SEVIS arrangements are made. You may be asked to provide proof of departure (for example, a plane ticket).

Special situations

  • Visa denial: send official documentation (consulate/USCIS) and we will usually offer a refund or deferral without standard fees if you provide proof before the first class begins.
  • Medical emergencies: submit medical documentation; requests are reviewed case-by-case. If documentation is received before the first class begins, refund or deferral options may apply; otherwise decisions are case-by-case.
  • Scholarships: scholarship terms may require you to pay tuition/fees prior to departure — check your scholarship agreement.
  • Program cancellation by GTLI: if GTLI cancels a session, we will offer refund or deferral options and provide instructions.

Refund processing & required documents

  • Required: completed Change of Plans Form or Withdrawal Form, proof of payment, and any supporting documents (visa letter, medical note, proof of departure for F-1 students).
  • Approved refunds are normally processed within 30 calendar days of approval and receipt of required documents.
  • Refunds are issued to the original payer (or a sponsor if required). GTLI is not responsible for bank fees or currency exchange losses for international refunds.

How the rule works — examples

Session starts August 18: The first scheduled class is Aug 18. Cancel before Aug 18 to request a refund or deferral; cancellations on or after Aug 18 are not eligible for refunds.

Session starts January 6: The first scheduled class is Jan 6. Cancel before Jan 6 to request a refund or deferral; cancellations on or after Jan 6 are not eligible for refunds.