Being deferred from a college can initially feel like a setback, especially when it’s a school you were really hoping to attend. It’s important to understand that being deferred is not a rejection. Instead, it means the college admissions committee wants to re-evaluate your application during the regular decision round, alongside a larger pool of applicants. You will then receive a final decision, most likely in March or April.
So, take a deep breath. It’s perfectly normal to feel a bit anxious or disappointed, but panicking won’t help. Instead, let’s focus on understanding what deferral means and what steps you can take to potentially improve your chances of admission in the regular decision round.
Understanding College Deferral
When you apply to college under an early decision or early action plan, the admissions committee has a few options: accept, reject, or defer your application. Deferral essentially means they are postponing their final decision.
Why do colleges defer students? There are several reasons why a college might defer an applicant:
- Highly Competitive Applicant Pool: Early application pools are often very competitive. Deferring allows colleges to compare your application with the regular decision applicant pool, giving them a broader context to make their final decision.
- Desire to See More Academic Performance: Colleges may want to see your grades from the first semester of your senior year to assess your continued academic performance.
- Balancing the Class Profile: Colleges aim to create a diverse and balanced incoming class. Deferral can be a tool to manage enrollment and ensure a mix of students with various backgrounds, interests, and skills.
- “Maybe” Pile: Sometimes, your application is strong, but not quite strong enough for immediate acceptance in the early round. Deferral places you in a “maybe” category for further review.
It’s crucial to remember that deferral is not a rejection. It means the college sees potential in your application but needs more time and context before making a final decision.
Key Steps to Take After Being Deferred
Being deferred is not the end of your college application journey with that school. Here are actionable steps you can take to navigate this phase and potentially strengthen your application for the regular decision round:
Step 1 – Carefully Follow the College’s Instructions
The first and most important step is to read and understand the deferral letter or communication from the college very carefully. Colleges will often provide specific instructions for deferred applicants. These instructions might include:
- No Further Action Required: Some colleges explicitly state that deferred applicants do not need to submit any additional materials. In this case, respect their instructions and do not send unsolicited updates.
- Optional Submission of Additional Materials: Other colleges might allow or even encourage deferred students to submit a letter of continued interest or updated information.
- Required Documents: In rare cases, a college might request specific additional documents, such as updated transcripts or recommendation letters.
Adhere to the college’s guidelines precisely. Sending materials they don’t want or need can be counterproductive and might even negatively impact your application. If the instructions are unclear, you can contact the admissions office for clarification.
Step 2 – Consider Writing a Letter of Continued Interest (If Appropriate)
If the college permits or suggests updates from deferred applicants, writing a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) can be a strategic move. This letter is a brief email or message to the admissions committee expressing your ongoing interest in the institution and providing any relevant updates since your initial application.
Here’s what to include in a strong Letter of Continued Interest:
- Express Gratitude and Reaffirm Interest: Begin by thanking the admissions committee for reconsidering your application and reiterate your strong interest in attending their college.
- Provide Meaningful Updates: Share any significant achievements or developments since you submitted your application. This could include:
- Improved grades or test scores (if applicable and significant)
- New awards or recognitions
- Leadership roles in extracurricular activities
- Meaningful projects or accomplishments
- Any experiences that further align you with the college’s values or programs
- Reiterate Your “Why [College Name]”: Briefly restate specific reasons why you are drawn to this particular college. Mention specific programs, faculty, opportunities, or aspects of the campus culture that resonate with you. Avoid generic statements and be specific.
- Keep it Concise and Professional: Your LOCI should be brief, well-written, and professional in tone. Proofread carefully for any errors.
Example snippets for a Letter of Continued Interest:
- “Thank you for deferring my application, allowing me to remain in consideration for admission to [College Name]. I am writing to reaffirm my enthusiastic interest in attending your institution.”
- “Since submitting my application, I was honored to be [achieve a specific award/recognition] in [relevant field], which further solidified my passion for [your area of study].”
- “My visit to [College Name]’s campus earlier this year truly solidified my desire to learn and contribute to your vibrant community, particularly within [specific department or program].”
Important Note: Only send a Letter of Continued Interest if it aligns with the college’s instructions and if you have genuine updates to share. Do not send a LOCI if the college explicitly states not to send further materials.
Step 3 – Stay Focused on Your Regular Decision Applications
While addressing your deferral is important, it’s equally crucial to continue focusing on your regular decision applications to other colleges. Being deferred from one school doesn’t change the fact that you need to apply to and be accepted by other institutions.
- Maintain Your Application Momentum: Keep working on your essays, gathering recommendations, and submitting applications to your remaining target schools.
- Explore a Range of Options: Remember that there are many fantastic colleges and universities out there. Keep an open mind and explore different types of institutions that might be a great fit for you.
- Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket: Even with a strong Letter of Continued Interest, there’s no guarantee of admission after deferral. Having a diverse list of colleges you’ve applied to will maximize your chances of getting into a school where you’ll be happy and successful.
Moving Forward After Deferral
Being deferred is a temporary status in your college application journey. Use this time wisely to follow the college’s instructions, consider sending a Letter of Continued Interest if appropriate, and most importantly, continue moving forward with your overall college application plan.
Remember, your worth is not defined by any single college’s decision. Focus on your strengths, continue to work hard, and stay optimistic. There are many paths to a successful and fulfilling college experience.
