Deferred—but Not Done: What to Do If You’re Deferred from Early Decision or Early Action
What Does It Mean to Be Deferred from Early Decision or Early Action?
Why Colleges Defer Strong Applicants
A deferral means the admissions committee saw promise in your application but wants more context—often senior-year grades, updated achievements, or a broader comparison with the regular decision pool. Many deferred students are academically qualified.
How a Deferral Differs from a Waitlist or Rejection
Unlike a rejection, a deferral keeps your application active. Unlike a waitlist, you are still under full consideration and may be admitted outright in the regular decision round.
First Step After a College Deferral: Read the School’s Instructions Carefully
Do All Colleges Accept Additional Materials After Deferral?
No. Some colleges explicitly prohibit additional submissions. Sending unrequested materials can reflect poorly on your ability to follow directions.
Where to Find Deferral Instructions in Your Applicant Portal
Check your deferral letter, applicant portal announcements, and the admissions website. Policies are school-specific and non-negotiable.
When to Submit Additional Information After a College Deferral
College-Specific Deadlines for Deferred Applicants
If the college provides a deadline, meet it exactly. Schools do not share a common deferral update timeline.
If No Deadline Is Listed, When Should You Send Updates?
Submit updates when you have meaningful new information—typically mid-February, after mid-year grades or notable achievements are available.
What to Submit After Being Deferred from Early Decision or Early Action
Mid-Year Grades and Senior-Year Academic Performance
Mid-year grades are often the most influential update. Strong senior-year performance reassures colleges that you are prepared for college-level work.
Submitting New SAT or ACT Scores After a Deferral
If you submitted test scores originally and have improved scores, you may submit them—if allowed. Students who applied test-optional typically cannot add scores later.
Updating Colleges on New Activities, Awards, or Leadership
Only share new information. Repeating content from your original application weakens your update.
Should You Send an Additional Teacher Recommendation?
Only if the school allows it and the recommender can speak to recent academic growth or new contributions.
Writing a Strong Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)
A strong LOCI explains how specific academic programs, courses, or opportunities align with your interests—and how you would engage meaningfully on campus.
How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest That Helps Your Application
What Admissions Officers Want to See in a LOCI
Admissions officers value clarity, purpose, and fit—not flattery. Show momentum and direction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Letter of Continued Interest
Avoid generic praise, emotional appeals, or demands. This is a professional academic update, not a personal plea.
Where and How to Submit Deferral Updates to Colleges
Submitting Materials Through the College Application Portal
Most colleges prefer updates through the application portal. Follow file type and word limit instructions carefully.
Emailing Updates to the Admissions Office: When and How
Email only if directed. Keep messages concise, respectful, and well-formatted.
Final Tips for Strengthening Your Application After a College Deferral
Focus on Meaningful Updates, Not Volume
One strong update is better than multiple weak submissions.
Staying Professional and Strategic During the Deferral Period
Continue performing well academically and engaging deeply in your commitments. Colleges notice consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About College Deferrals
Can I submit new SAT or ACT scores after being deferred?
Sometimes. If you submitted scores initially and the college allows updates, you may submit improved scores. Test-optional applicants usually cannot add scores later.
Do colleges read letters of continued interest?
Yes—if the school allows them. A focused, well-written LOCI can positively influence a final decision.
How long should a letter of continued interest be?
Typically 250–500 words, unless the college specifies otherwise.
Is being deferred a bad sign?
No. Many deferred students are later admitted, especially those who show strong senior-year performance and thoughtful engagement.
Should I contact my admissions officer directly after a deferral?
Only if the college instructs you to do so. Unsolicited outreach can backfire.
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