Getting deferred from college can be a confusing and stressful experience. Here’s what it means and what you can do next.
What is Deferral?
Deferral is when a college or university postpones your admission decision to a later date. This typically happens when the admissions committee needs more time to review your application.
Why Do Colleges Defer Applicants?
There are several reasons why colleges defer applicants. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Your application is strong, but there are a lot of other qualified applicants. The admissions committee may want to see how your grades and test scores compare to other applicants in the pool before making a final decision.
- Your application is missing some information. The admissions committee may need additional information from you, such as your transcripts or letters of recommendation, before they can make a decision.
- The admissions committee wants to see how you perform in your senior year. If you’re a high school senior, the admissions committee may want to see how you finish your coursework before making a final decision.
What Does Deferral Mean for You?
If you’re deferred, it doesn’t mean that you’re rejected. It simply means that the admissions committee needs more time to review your application. You’re still in the running for admission, and you should continue to work hard in school.
What to Do If You’re Deferred
If you’re deferred, there are a few things you can do:
- Contact the admissions office. Ask if there’s anything you can do to strengthen your application. The admissions office may be able to give you tips on how to improve your chances of admission.
- Send a letter of continued interest. Let the admissions committee know that you’re still interested in attending the college. In your letter, you can highlight your accomplishments since you submitted your application.
- Visit the college. If possible, visit the college to get a better sense of the campus and the community. Visiting the college can help you make a more informed decision about whether or not you want to attend.
Tips for Avoiding Deferral
Here are a few tips for avoiding deferral:
- Apply early. The earlier you apply, the more time the admissions committee will have to review your application.
- Submit a complete application. Make sure your application is complete and error-free. Include all of the required materials, such as your transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.
- Write a strong personal statement. Your personal statement is your chance to show the admissions committee who you are and why you’re a good fit for the college. Take your time and write a well-crafted personal statement.
- Get good grades. Your grades are one of the most important factors in the admissions process. Make sure you’re working hard in school and getting good grades.
- Take challenging courses. Taking challenging courses shows the admissions committee that you’re willing to challenge yourself and that you’re capable of handling college-level work.
Conclusion
Getting deferred from college can be a disappointing experience, but it’s not the end of the world. If you’re deferred, there are still things you can do to improve your chances of admission.