RESOURCES
2024-03-13
Being Deferred: What It Means
Discover what deferred college admission is, its benefits, application steps, and tips for securing your spot at your chosen college.
Published by Tilting Futures
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.
Considering a semester abroad?
See how Take Action Lab could align with your goals.
Benefits of Deferring College Admission
Deferring college admission can offer several advantages, allowing you to make the most of your time before starting your academic journey:
Life Experience: Whether through travel, volunteering, or work, taking time off can provide valuable experiences that broaden your perspective and enhance personal growth.
Academic Preparedness: Use this time to improve your readiness for college-level coursework by engaging in educational activities like online courses or workshops, boosting your academic confidence.
Financial Planning: Working during your deferral year can help you save money, reducing financial stress when you eventually start college.
Stronger Applications: If you decide to reapply to other colleges or programs, the experiences and skills you gain can enhance your application, opening doors to more opportunities.
Potential Drawbacks of Deferring College Admission
While deferring college admission can offer many benefits and may be the best move for you, there are still pitfalls you need to consider. Some challenges exist, such as:
Academic Momentum Loss: Taking a break from academics can sometimes lead to a loss of momentum. You might find it challenging to get back into the study routine after a year away from structured learning, so it’s important to have discipline.
Financial Implications: While deferring might give you time to save money, it can also lead to additional expenses, such as travel or living costs.
Social Aspects and Peer Relationships: Starting college later can mean being out of sync with your high school peers who go directly to college. It’s never good to compare yourself to others, so don’t be afraid to chart your own path and take things at your own pace—it just helps to adjust your expectations, too.
Tips for a Successful Deferral Year
If you decide to defer your college admission, planning your year effectively can help you make the most of your time. Here are some tips to ensure a productive and enriching deferral year:
Set Goals and Plan Activities
Begin by setting clear goals for what you want to achieve during your deferral year. Whether it’s gaining work experience, learning a new skill, or traveling, having a plan can keep you focused and motivated.
Stay Academically Engaged
Even if you’re taking a break from formal education, try to stay intellectually active. You can take online courses, attend workshops, or simply read about topics that interest you to keep your mind sharp.
Maintain Communication with the College
Keep in touch with the college you plan to attend. Update them on your activities and achievements during your deferral year. This can demonstrate your continued interest and commitment to your education.
Explore New Opportunities
Use this time to explore interests that you might not have had time for during high school. Whether it’s a hobby, volunteering, or an internship, trying new things can lead to unexpected discoveries and personal growth.
FAQs About Deferred College Admission
Can You Defer Admission After Accepting an Offer?
Yes, many colleges allow students to request a deferral even after they have accepted an offer. However, you should check the specific policies of your college and contact the admissions office as soon as possible to discuss your options.
How Long Can You Defer College Admission?
Typically, colleges allow deferrals for one semester or a full academic year. The exact duration can vary, so it’s important to confirm the specifics with your college.
Do All Colleges Allow Deferral?
Not all colleges offer deferral options, and policies can differ widely. Some institutions have more flexible deferral policies, while others may not allow deferrals at all. Always check with the admissions office to understand your options.
What Happens If Your Deferral Request Is Denied?
If your deferral request is denied, you will need to decide whether to enroll as originally planned or explore other options, such as reapplying to different colleges or seeking other educational opportunities.
Embracing Opportunities During Your Deferral
Remember, a deferral year is an opportunity to grow, explore new interests, and prepare for your college experience. Whether you choose to work, travel, or pursue other activities, the key is to use this time productively and intentionally. Boosting your portfolio can open all sorts of opportunities for your academic career!
If you’re looking to make the most of your deferral year, consider joining Tilting Futures’ Take Action Lab. This immersive program offers a unique blend of online learning and hands-on experience. Apply today!