What to Do If You're Deferred

Every year, I see talented kids get deferred from schools they love. And… then I see them get into their dream school, Regular Decision.

I hate applying early, particularly Early Decision, because I feel that colleges miscommunicate how much it improves your chances of admission. They say that the acceptance rate is double, but those numbers are inflated by recruited athletes, children of faculty and staff, and legacies.

If you got deferred, do not panic. All it means is you made the first cut.

I repeat: you made it through the first cut. And yes, they cut people.

Getting in early means they’re willing to accept you before reviewing the whole pool of options. In many ways, it means it’s harder to get in. You gain goodwill by applying early, particularly with early decision, because it demonstrates interest. Guess what? The goodwill follows you into regular decision. They know you want to go.

However, that doesn’t mean you sit pretty. We have to act now and strategically.

1. Write an Update Letter That Slaps

Your update letter needs to be purposeful, sharp, and full of new accomplishments. Don’t rehash what they already know from your application. Instead, tell them what you’ve done since applying. Here’s what to include:

• New Achievements: Did you win an award? Get published? Land a leadership role? Highlight anything fresh and meaningful.
• Relevant Progress: Talk about specific growth in areas connected to your intended major or passions.
• Excitement, Not Desperation: Be enthusiastic, not needy. Reaffirm your interest in the school and why it’s a perfect fit, but keep it cool.

Pro Tip: Admissions counselors are busy. Make this letter concise and compelling.

I find a customized approach works well. I highly recommend you book a session with me to make sure we write a letter that only you can deliver.

Book A Continued Interest Letter Session

2. Level Up Your Resume

Deferred students who get admitted often use this time to beef up their applications with new accomplishments. Here are a few sharp ideas:

• Apply for a Creative Award: Submit your writing, art, or other creative work to contests (bonus points if the award aligns with your major). This shows initiative and talent.
• Start a Mini Project: Did you mention a passion in your essay? Now’s the time to take action. For instance, if you’re into social justice, organize a small fundraiser or awareness event.
• Take a College-Level Class: Enroll in a local community college or an online course related to your major. Mention it in your update letter; it’s impressive and shows you’re not waiting around.

Not sure which achievements will stand out most? We can talk about meaningful updates that strengthen your application.

3. Mind the Deadlines

If the school accepts additional materials, send them within their timeline. If they say no extra materials, respect that. Being pushy here can backfire.

4. Keep Those Grades Up

This one’s boring but crucial. Many deferred students are evaluated again after mid-year reports. Keep grinding.

5. Be Smart About Other Applications

If this school is still your first choice, keep working toward it. But don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to other schools that excite you. Trust me, it’s better to have multiple options than to feel like your future hinges on one email. Ensure these essays are just as strong as your original ones.

6. Trust the Process

This is the hardest part, but remember: deferrals happen to some of the most qualified candidates. It’s not a reflection of your worth.

Schools defer students because they’re still trying to figure out how you fit into their class. Your job? Show them why you do, without losing sight of all the amazing things you’ve got going on.

Getting deferred can feel like a gut punch, but it’s also an opportunity. Use this time wisely to grow, achieve, and show admissions why they’d be lucky to have you.

And if you need help crafting the perfect update letter, brainstorming new achievements, or just staying focused and confident, I’m here to help.

I love my students. I’m not kidding.

I don’t love colleges.

I think I’m good at this field because I genuinely do not worship the ivory tower.

I don’t think a 30-year-old working a desk job at an admissions office is the ultimate decider of who is worthwhile or who will succeed in life. This stuff matters, but it doesn’t define you. That might be counterintuitive to say, as this is my job, but I sell honesty, not the admissions process itself.

I will be real with you, but be real with yourself. Getting into college is a starting point; it’s not the be-all and end-all.