When a college is pushing for the full first semester's fees rather than just the seat-securing deposit, and there's a real chance of deferring for personal reasons, group members generally sided with paying the full amount but verifying deferral terms first.
What group members advised:- Paying the full first semester's fees (not just the deposit) before applying is common and often recommended, since having the money deposited into the student's account supports the visa application (as proof of paid tuition).
- If the study permit is refused, refunds are generally available — but only if you have not already started online classes from your home country. Starting online classes before a refusal can void your refund eligibility.
- Before paying, check the university's deferral policy directly. Some universities allow deferring your intake by up to a year, but confirm whether a tuition/fee increase would apply for the deferred intake and whether you'd need to pay any difference.
Bottom line: paying the full first semester's fees is standard practice to strengthen a study permit application, but confirm the refund conditions (don't start online classes early) and the deferral policy (possible fee increases) before committing the payment.