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
- Complete the Change of Plans Form at istart.gatech.edu.
- 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.
- 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.