Hey guys! I've heard that some students get deferred instead of accepted or rejected when applying. I know it's not a firm decision, but could someone explain what it really means and the implications of being deferred?
Deferment in the college admissions process typically occurs when a student applies through an Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED) plan but receives a decision from the college stating that their application will be reconsidered in the Regular Decision (RD) applicant pool. This means the college hasn't rejected the student outright but also hasn't accepted them yet. Instead, the college wants more time to examine the applicant's credentials alongside the RD applicants.
Being deferred can have both pros and cons for the applicant. On the one hand, it indicates that the college still considers the student a viable candidate for admission. On the other hand, it prolongs the uncertainty of the admissions outcome, which can be stressful.
When a student is deferred, there are some steps they can take to improve their chances in the RD round, such as:
1. Keeping their grades strong during senior year, as colleges will consider their mid-year report reflecting recent academic performance.
2. Updating the college with significant accomplishments or new information since the initial application, such as awards, achievements, or a change in extracurricular involvement.
3. Writing a letter of continued interest (LOCI) to express ongoing enthusiasm for the college and provide any relevant updates that demonstrate the student's commitment to the school.
It's important to note that while some deferred applicants may eventually be admitted during the RD round, others may be waitlisted or rejected. Therefore, it's crucial for students to continue applying to other colleges on their list and not invest all their hopes in the one they've been deferred from. Ultimately, a deferment is not a final decision, and students should continue to explore other options and opportunities.
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