Receiving a deferral from your top-choice university can feel disheartening, but remember—it’s not a rejection! While waiting for the final decision can be frustrating, there are proactive steps you can take to boost your chances and show that you’re still the right fit for the school.
The Competitive Landscape of Early Applications
The competition for early applications has intensified in recent years. For instance, for the Class of 2029, Yale University received 6,729 applications and admitted 728 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of approximately 10.8%[1]. Georgetown University admitted 917 students from a pool of 8,254 applicants, yielding an acceptance rate of about 11%[2].
These figures highlight the increasing competitiveness of the admissions process. A rise in applicants doesn’t always lead increasing acceptance rates. Colleges must consider various factors when building a class, and even with more students vying for admission, there’s often limited capacity to significantly expand the incoming class.
What Does a Deferral Really Mean?
A deferral means that your application will be reconsidered during the regular decision cycle, giving you another shot at admission. This is different from a denial, which typically signals that the institution doesn’t view you as competitive enough for admission.
A deferral can actually be an opportunity—it gives you time to strengthen your application, especially if the school allows you to submit additional materials.
Steps to Take After a Deferral
1. Revaluate Your Interest in the College
A deferral can be a good time to reassess whether the college is still your top choice. Ask yourself if you are truly passionate about the school or if your attention should shift to other institutions. It’s important to stay focused and make decisions that align with your goals.
2. Check What Additional Materials the College Accepts
Some schools will request additional materials, such as an updated transcript, new test scores, updates on extracurricular activities, or recommendation letters. Others may welcome a letter of continued interest. Always check the college’s guidelines before submitting anything extra. If a college explicitly states that deferred students should not submit additional application materials, then do not send in anything else. Students can ruin their chances in the regular round by not following directions.
3. Write a Deferral Letter (If Allowed)
If the college permits it, sending a deferral letter is a great way to show your enthusiasm for the school. A well-crafted deferral letter can:
- Reinforce your commitment to attending if admitted in the regular round.
- Explain why the school is a perfect fit for your academic and personal goals (refer to specific courses, professors, or extracurriculars).
- Update the admissions team on any achievements, both inside and outside the classroom, since your initial application.
- Maintain a positive tone, without expressing frustration or disappointment.
4. Consider Additional Letters of Recommendation (If Allowed)
If your academic achievements or extracurricular activities have improved significantly since your original application, consider asking for an additional letter of recommendation. This could be from a senior-year teacher, an employer, or a coach who can speak to your recent growth. Be sure to confirm whether the school accepts extra recommendations.
5. Reach out to your interviewer and let them know you’ve been deferred.
They may offer valuable suggestions or even send a letter or email to the admissions office to further support your application.
6. Consult Your College Counselor
Before submitting any additional materials, have a meeting with your high school counselor. They can offer valuable guidance to ensure that your updates are meaningful and won’t overwhelm the admissions office.
7. Plan a Campus Visit (If Possible)
If you haven’t already visited the campus, consider doing so before March 1st. A campus visit can be a great way to demonstrate genuine interest in the school. Try to:
- Meet with your admissions representative.
- Attend a class or two to get a feel for the academic environment.
- Speak with current students to learn more about campus life.
8. Submit Updated Grades and Test Scores (If applicable)
Many universities request a mid-year report with your senior fall grades. Be sure to send these in by early March. If you’ve taken any new standardized tests (SATs/ACTs) and your scores have improved, send in your highest results. This is an opportunity to show that you’re still excelling academically.
9. Continue Applying to Other Schools
While you work to improve your chances with your deferred college, don’t forget about your other applications. Keep applying to a balanced list of schools where you feel confident you’ll be accepted.
Final Considerations
While showing continued interest in the school can improve your chances of being admitted, there are no guarantees. Admission decisions depend on the nuances of the overall applicant pool, the institution’s priorities, and available space.
Finally, a few words of advice:
- Keep your grades up. Many colleges give strong consideration to first semester grades from senior year!
- Stay involved. Continue to be active in clubs, sports and other activities. Some colleges and universities random auditing applications to promote honesty.
- Remember that you will get into college, and that college is ultimately what you make of it. College should not be an endpoint, but rather a new chapter in your life.
Samidha Education Co., Ltd. 
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