What to Do After Being Deferred from College Admissions

Receiving a deferral from a college can feel discouraging, especially after months of preparation and anticipation. However, a deferral is not a rejection. It means the admissions committee sees potential in your application and wants to review it again during the Regular Decision round. With the right strategy, many deferred students go on to receive offers of admission.

This guide walks you through exactly what to do after being deferred, how to strengthen your application, and how to stay focused and confident during the next phase of the admissions process.

What Does a College Deferral Mean?

When a college defers your application, it means your profile was competitive but not selected for early admission. Your application will be reconsidered alongside Regular Decision applicants. Colleges often defer students because they want to review senior year grades, evaluate institutional priorities, or compare applicants across a larger pool.

The most important thing to remember is this: you are still being considered.

First Steps After a Deferral

It is natural to feel disappointed, but avoid reacting emotionally. Do not contact the admissions office asking why you were deferred or attempt to argue your case. Instead, take time to understand the school’s deferral policy and next steps.

Start by carefully reading your deferral letter and the admissions website. Some colleges allow updates, while others explicitly discourage additional materials.

Reevaluate Your Interest in the College

Before moving forward, ask yourself if the deferred college is still your top choice. If it is, you should be prepared to demonstrate that commitment clearly and professionally. If not, you can still remain in the pool while shifting your focus to other strong options on your list.

Follow the College’s Instructions Exactly

Each college handles deferrals differently. Some allow a Letter of Continued Interest, updated grades, or new test scores. Others request no additional materials beyond midyear reports.

Only submit what is allowed. Sending unrequested materials can negatively impact your application.

Write a Strong Letter of Continued Interest

If permitted, a Letter of Continued Interest is one of the most effective ways to strengthen your candidacy.

Your letter should:

• Clearly state that the college remains one of your top choices

• Share meaningful updates since you applied

• Reinforce your academic and personal fit with the school

• Maintain a positive, professional tone

Keep the letter concise and focused. Avoid repeating your original essays or expressing frustration about the deferral.

Send Academic and Testing Updates

Admissions committees often want to see how students perform during the first half of senior year. Strong midyear grades can significantly improve your chances.

You may also submit updated standardized test scores if the school allows them and if your scores have improved.

Consider an Additional Recommendation Carefully

If allowed, an additional recommendation can help only if it provides new insight into your growth, leadership, or recent accomplishments. Choose a recommender who knows you well and can speak specifically about your recent progress.

Do not submit extra recommendations unless the college explicitly allows them.

Demonstrate Continued Interest Thoughtfully

Some colleges track demonstrated interest. If appropriate, you can attend virtual information sessions, campus visits, or webinars. Any interaction should be genuine and purposeful, not excessive.

Stay Focused on Regular Decision Applications

Do not pause or downgrade your Regular Decision applications. Many students lose momentum after a deferral, which can limit their options later.

Continue refining essays, meeting deadlines, and applying strategically to schools where you are a strong fit.

Reassess Your College List

A deferral can be a useful signal to rebalance your college list. Make sure you have a healthy mix of reach, match, and safety schools. Strong options often exist beyond the most selective colleges.

How PathIvy Supports Students After a Deferral

At PathIvy, we help students turn deferrals into opportunities. Our counselors work closely with deferred applicants to evaluate next steps, craft compelling Letters of Continued Interest, and identify meaningful updates that strengthen the application.

We also help students stay focused on Regular Decision applications, refine strategy across their college list, and reduce anxiety during this uncertain phase. A deferral does not define your outcome. With the right guidance, it can become a stepping stone to success.

Frequently Asked Questions About College Deferrals

Is being deferred better than being waitlisted?
Yes. A deferral means your application will be actively reconsidered during Regular Decision. A waitlist decision happens later and depends on space availability.

Do colleges actually accept deferred students?
Yes. Many colleges admit a portion of their deferred pool, especially students who show academic improvement and sustained interest.

Should I email the admissions office after being deferred?
Only if the college allows additional communication. Follow their guidelines closely and keep communication professional and limited.

Can I submit new awards or achievements?
If the college allows updates, yes. Focus on meaningful accomplishments, not minor activities.

Does a deferral hurt my chances at other colleges?
No. Deferrals are school specific and do not affect other applications.

Should I apply ED II after being deferred EA?
Yes, if another school is a strong top choice and fits your profile well. A deferral does not limit your ability to apply ED II elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

A deferral is not the end of the road. It is an invitation to stay in the process and show continued growth, maturity, and commitment. By staying proactive, following instructions carefully, and strengthening your application where possible, you keep your chances alive.

No matter the final outcome, remember that college success is about fit, opportunity, and growth, not just one decision.