Being Deferred: What It Means

Being Deferred: What It Means

Getting into college can be full of twists and turns, and sometimes, that journey includes a stop called “deferred admission.” If you’ve ever received a deferral notice, you might feel a mix of emotions—confusion, frustration, or even relief depending on the situation. But what does being deferred really mean, and how can it impact your future plans? Here is what you need to know.

What Is Deferred College Admission?

Deferred college admission means that a college has decided to postpone your start date. Instead of starting your studies right away, you delay your enrollment, usually for a semester or a year. This can be a choice you make or a decision made by the college in response to your application.

When it’s a decision of the school, it’s usually because the student has applied through Early Action or Early Decision and the admissions officers need more information before offering full acceptance. In these cases, the student has not been rejected—the application is put on pause until it reaches the next regular decision admission cycle.

Deferred vs. Waitlisted: What’s the Difference?

Even though it may sound similar, this is different from being waitlisted. If you’re deferred, you have chosen to start later or have been given a later start date by the school. On the other hand, being waitlisted means you haven’t been fully accepted yet because the college has admitted the maximum number of students. A waitlisted student is an applicant who may be offered a spot if space becomes available.

Reasons to Defer College Admission

Deciding to defer college admission can be a strategic move for many students. Here are some common reasons why you might wait to start your school year.

Taking a Gap Year or Apprenticeship

A gap year can be a fantastic opportunity to explore the world and gain experiences that go beyond the classroom. Whether you choose to travel, volunteer, or dive into a creative project, this time can help you grow personally and professionally. 

Tilting Future’s Take Action Lab Program, for example, is perfect for students who want to make the most of their deferral year. This program provides a structured way to explore your interests, develop new skills, and prepare for your future while contributing to meaningful projects. Participants get the opportunity to boost their confidence and portfolio by traveling to a different country and helping work on global issues.

There are also apprenticeships that offer hands-on experience in a field you’re interested in, which can be a game-changer in some fields of study. This helps you to learn practical skills and gain insights into potential career paths—ultimately preparing you for decisions down the road.

Pursuing Work or Internship Opportunities

Deferring admission can give you the chance to gain work experience or do internships to build a strong foundation for your resume. This not only helps you save money for college but also provides real-world skills and networking opportunities that can be invaluable during your studies and beyond.

Traveling or Volunteering

Traveling or volunteering during your deferral year can broaden your horizons and teach you valuable lessons about different cultures and communities. It’s a chance to make a positive impact, learn new languages, and develop a global perspective that can enhance your college experience. This is another area where Take Action Lab can help!

Personal or Family Reasons

Sometimes, personal or family circumstances make it necessary to delay college. Whether it’s health-related, financial, or family obligations, taking a deferral can give you the time you need to address these matters and start college when you’re truly ready.

How to Apply for Deferred College Admission

If you’ve decided that deferring your college admission is the right choice for you, it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure your request is successful. Here’s how you can go about it:

Contact the Admissions Office: Start by reaching out to the admissions office of the college you’ve been accepted to. Ask them about their deferral policy, as procedures can vary between institutions.

Submit a Formal Request: Most colleges require a written request for deferral. This could be an email or a formal letter explaining your reasons for wanting to defer.

Follow Up: After submitting your request, make sure to follow up with the admissions office to confirm they have received your application and understand your intentions.

Necessary Documentation

Depending on the college, you might need to provide additional documentation to support your deferral request. This could include:

A detailed plan of what you intend to do during your deferral period (e.g., work, travel, volunteering).

Any relevant acceptance letters or agreements for programs you plan to join, such as internships or apprenticeships.

Proof of financial arrangements if applicable.

Deadlines and Timing

Be mindful of deadlines when applying for a deferral. Each college has specific timelines for submitting deferral requests, so it’s essential to check these dates and ensure all materials are submitted on time. Missing a deadline could result in losing your spot, so keep track of important dates and stay organized.