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. 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.
Read MoreEach year, families ask whether applying early—through Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA)—can make a meaningful difference in college admissions. This year’s results show that, when done thoughtfully, it can.
Read MoreWhen selecting a university, students often face a crucial decision: should they attend a highly selective private university with a smaller undergraduate enrollment (5,000–8,000 students) or opt for a selective public research university with a larger student body (30,000–50,000 students)? Each type of institution offers unique advantages, and the best choice depends on a student’s academic goals, career aspirations, and preferred learning environment. Below, we explore the relative benefits of each option.
Read MoreThe University of Michigan recently announced a new binding early decision application plan for first year applicants starting the fall 2026 admission cycle. Applicants must apply by November 1, submit financial aid by November 15, and will receive a decision by end of December, with commitment by mid‑January. This option now sits alongside Michigan’s existing nonbinding early action, which also has a Nov 1 deadline but delivers decisions in late January and allows a May 1 commitment.
Read MoreA deferral can feel disheartening, but it’s important to recognize that it’s not a rejection. Instead, a deferral means the admissions committee wants to reassess your application in the context of the larger, regular decision applicant pool. Here’s what you need to know about deferrals and how to take proactive steps to improve your chances of admission during the regular decision process.
Read MoreBut what does applying early mean exactly? We’ve answered a few of the most fundamental questions concerning early applications to help you suss out whether this decision is right for YOU.
Read MoreRecent changes made to the code of ethics of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) might impact students applying to college beginning with the fall 2020 admission season.
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