What A College Admissions Deferral Really Means And What To Do Next

The term "deferred" in the college admissions world carries with it a weight of complexity—an intersection of uncertainty and opportunity. For students, parents, and advisors, a deferral is often perceived as an ambiguous outcome, a suspended verdict that neither fully closes doors nor offers the triumph of acceptance. It sits somewhere in between, leaving applicants to wonder, “What comes next?”

The path forward is often unclear, but understanding the true nature of a deferral and taking proactive steps can transform what initially seems like a setback into a strategic advantage.

Why Does A Deferral Happen? Understanding the Context

A deferral doesn’t signify a lack of merit, but rather reflects an application that has potential yet leaves key questions unanswered. Admissions committees are inundated with applications, often at record numbers, and are tasked with identifying candidates who not only meet academic standards but also align with the college’s evolving institutional priorities. A deferral may stem from one of two primary causes:

1. Comparison to the Regular Decision Pool: Colleges often defer students to compare them to a broader set of applicants in the Regular Decision cycle. This is especially true for highly competitive schools, where initial early applications can only offer a snapshot of the overall applicant pool.

2. Incomplete or Unclear Application Elements: A deferral can also occur when there are gaps in the application—missing pieces of the academic or personal puzzle that raise questions without providing full clarity. It could be a subtle element like a lack of specific context on academic rigor, extracurricular engagement, or even how well the student aligns with the school’s values.

Both scenarios underscore a simple truth: the applicant has potential, but the committee needs more information to make a definitive judgment.

Navigating the Deferral: Strategic Next Steps

1. Craft a Compelling Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI):

The first and most important action is for the student to write a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI). This letter should be concise, purposeful, and filled with relevant updates that directly address the school’s key interests. A well-drafted LOCI serves as an opportunity for the student to underscore their passion for the institution while reinforcing how their academic and extracurricular pursuits align with the school’s unique culture and values.

Admissions officers value specificity—students should highlight recent achievements that enhance their candidacy, such as midyear grades that show consistent academic performance, new accomplishments, or notable extracurricular engagements. It’s essential to make the letter authentic and personalized, not just a blanket update, but a reflection of genuine, thoughtful progress.

If standardized test scores have improved, or if there is new evidence of academic prowess, those should be shared too. However, it’s critical not to overwhelm the committee with irrelevant or redundant information. The LOCI should add depth to the application, not just reiterate what has already been presented.

2. Enhance the Narrative with a New Recommendation Letter:

An additional recommendation letter from a teacher, coach, or mentor who can provide new insights into the student’s character and potential can be a highly effective strategy—particularly when it offers a fresh perspective on the student’s growth and abilities. That said, it's important to consider whether the letter will add tangible value. Will it enhance the overall narrative, or will it merely repeat what’s already been communicated?

The focus should be on finding someone who can speak to qualities not yet explored—perhaps a specific example of leadership, resilience, or intellectual curiosity that wasn’t previously emphasized in the application.

3. Utilize the High School Counselor as a Strategic Advocate:

The high school counselor can be a key ally in advocating for the student. They have a unique perspective and a broader view of the student’s trajectory, both academically and personally. A counselor’s letter or email can provide additional context, reinforcing the student’s continued interest while offering insights that may not be fully evident in the original application.

This outreach serves not only as a demonstration of the student’s ongoing interest but also as a way to personalize the student’s candidacy beyond the resume.

4. Engage with the College: Show Ongoing Interest Through Direct Interaction:

Many colleges now offer virtual or in-person events specifically designed for deferred students. These events present an invaluable opportunity for students to engage with admissions staff, faculty, or current students. By participating in these opportunities, students signal their continued commitment and enthusiasm for the school.

A strategically crafted email to a professor or department can also demonstrate academic fit. Students who can express how their academic interests align with the college’s offerings—while maintaining a tone of intellectual curiosity—can further strengthen their application.

5. Embrace the Role of Parents in a Supportive, Not Dominant, Capacity:

While the admissions process is primarily a student-driven experience, parents play a crucial role in providing emotional support and encouragement. It’s vital for parents to understand that the student should take ownership of their deferral response. This process is an opportunity for students to develop independence, resilience, and strategic thinking—skills that will serve them well in college and beyond.

Parents can help by providing perspective, encouraging a calm, measured approach, and avoiding unnecessary intervention. A deferral is not a reflection of a student’s worth; it’s merely a pause in the conversation with the college.

Deferral is an Opportunity in Disguise

A deferral should not be viewed as a door closed, but as an invitation to demonstrate persistence and resolve. The best applicants are often those who can turn uncertainty into opportunity—those who can continue to refine their narrative and reinforce their fit with the college.

For students navigating this uncertain moment, the key is to take proactive, thoughtful steps that strategically highlight their potential. With the right mindset and approach, what may initially seem like a setback can evolve into the best kind of success.

A deferral is not a final verdict on an applicant’s future. It’s a call to action—a prompt for students to strengthen their story, build their narrative, and ultimately present a more compelling, confident version of themselves. What begins as an uncertain pause can, with effort and strategic focus, lead to a resounding "yes."

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your College Admissions Journey?

If you or your child has received a deferral and are looking for personalized guidance on how to strategically strengthen your application, reach out today. As college admissions experts, we help students navigate these pivotal moments with confidence and purpose. Let’s work together to craft a compelling narrative that turns a deferral into a powerful opportunity.

This news letter is based on my original Forbes article here.