Navigating College Application Deferrals: What Students and Parents Need to Know

Receiving a college deferral can be disappointing, but it’s important to remember a deferral is not a rejection.

When a college defers your Early Decision or Early Action application, it means your application will be reconsidered in the Regular Decision pool. While a deferral can be frustrating, it’s also an opportunity to strengthen your candidacy. 

Why Do Colleges Defer Students? Colleges defer applicants for several reasons, but most commonly so they can gather more information. For example, the admissions committees might want to see your senior-year grades, new test scores, or additional accomplishments before making a final decision. In some cases, they’re also managing enrollment targets—if too many students apply ED/EA, deferrals help ensure they don’t over-accept.

Steps to Take After a Deferral

1. Submit a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)

If the college will accept one, a LOCI is your most powerful tool. This letter should:

• Reaffirm your commitment to attending the school. If the school is still your top choice, let them know.

• Highlight new achievements since applying, such as winning an award, earning a leadership role, or completing a research project or community service project.

• Mention recent grades or improved test scores.

2. Send Mid-Year Grades

Strong senior-year performance can turn the deferral into an acceptance. If your senior grades are strong or you did well in a challenging course related to your major, the updated grades may tip the scale in your favor. 

3. Secure Additional Recommendations

A supplemental recommendation from a teacher, coach, or mentor who can speak to recent growth adds depth to your application. For example, a deferred student who has done well in AP Calculus asked their current teacher to write a short recommendation and they were then accepted to the school that had deferred them from the Early Action round.

What Not to Do After a Deferral

• Don’t bombard the admissions office with calls or emails. 

• Avoid generic updates. 

While admission rates after deferral vary, proactive steps can improve odds. Even if you’re not ultimately admitted, the process teaches resilience—a trait colleges value.

Final Thoughts

A deferral is not the end of your application process. You can turn this pause into a pathway by staying engaged, showcasing growth, and exploring options like ED II. Many deferred students go on to thrive at colleges that are the right fit.

Need personalized guidance? Schedule a consultation to learn how we can work together on a deferral response strategy that highlights your strengths