How to Request a Deferral: A Guide to Deferred Admission for Grad School and College Admissions

Congratulations, you’ve successfully navigated the competitive college admission or graduate program application process! However, life sometimes presents unexpected circumstances, prompting you to defer your admission. Understanding deferred admission, early decision, early action, and what it means to be waitlisted can help you make informed decisions throughout your admissions process.

At The Art of Applying®, we’ve supported many students through the deferred admission process. Here’s a detailed guide with strategies, tips, and examples for successfully requesting a deferral during your admission cycle.

What Does Deferred Admission Mean?

Being deferred from college or university means they agreed to allow an applicant to postpone enrollment, usually for one academic year. More specifically, it means your application was successful, and your admission status will be maintained until the next regular decision round. “Deferred” does not mean rejected; it simply means your enrollment is delayed.

Granting deferrals is at the discretion of the admissions office. Some colleges defer students readily, while others require compelling reasons. Understanding deferral means recognizing that your acceptance is secure, but enrollment is delayed.

At The Art of Applying, we’ve seen students feel anxious when they hear the word “deferred,” thinking it’s the same as being rejected or waitlisted. It’s not. One of our consultants even successfully deferred her own admission to the University of Chicago’s MPP program when a new project at work became a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. That experience gave her richer insights that she brought into her grad school journey.

When Should You Request a Deferral?

You should defer admission only when genuinely necessary. Admissions committees carefully select applicants from the regular decision pool and regular admission applicants to build a balanced incoming class, and deferrals can impact this admissions process. Ideally, request your deferral before officially accepting your admission and paying your deposit. Late requests complicate matters for the admissions office and can delay the final decision.

If you’re unsure, it’s okay to ask for more time. We’ve coached clients through successfully requesting an extension to the deferral deadline. You just have to be upfront and clear about your reasons; sometimes getting a little more time to reevaluate can help everything fall into place.

Common Reasons to Request Deferred Admission:Financial Issues: Unexpected financial challenges or additional time needed to secure funding.Personal Circumstances: Family emergencies, medical issues, or other significant personal matters.Professional Opportunities: Exceptional job offers or internships aligned with academic and career objectives.Complementary Academic Programs: Admission to another school or complementary program that enhances your long-term goals.

You can also make the case that deferring will help you show up as a stronger student. For example, if you’ve been accepted to a prestigious fellowship or are taking on a meaningful professional project, explain how this experience will enrich your future studies. Admissions officers appreciate applicants who are thoughtful and intentional, not just about getting in, but about making the most of their time once they enroll.

Avoid requesting a deferral simply to apply early or apply to another school, as this could jeopardize your admission.

How to Write a Letter Requesting a Deferral:

Writing a clear, concise deferral letter significantly increases your chances of approval. Here’s an example:

Sample Deferral Letter (email format):

Subject: Deferral Request for [Your Name] (Applicant #[Your Applicant Number])

Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name],

My name is [Your Name] (Applicant #[Your Applicant Number]), and I was recently admitted to [Program Name] at [Institution Name]. I’m honored by this admission and excited to join the incoming class.

However, I respectfully request to defer my admission by one year due to [clearly state your reason briefly, emphasizing practical solutions].

I remain committed to enrolling next year and will promptly complete all necessary documentation and deposits. Please inform me if additional details are required.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

One concern we often hear is, “Will they rescind my offer if I ask to defer?” The good news: it’s not risky. Schools won’t rescind your offer just because you asked. They may say no, but that’s the worst-case scenario. The key is to be respectful, clear, and timely in your communication.

Steps After Submitting Your Deferral Request:

After you write a letter requesting deferral, the admissions office typically responds within two weeks. If you need more time or haven’t received a response, politely follow up.

If you’re juggling decisions or offers, it’s worth brainstorming what other reasons you can include in your deferral request besides waiting on other schools. Focusing on professional development or personal readiness can be more compelling to admissions committees than simply wanting to keep your options open.

Stay mindful of the original deadline for accepting your offer, as circumstances might change, allowing immediate enrollment. Upon receiving deferral approval, complete all administrative requirements promptly.

Understanding Deferred Admission: FAQsDeferred vs Waitlisted: Clarifying the TermsDeferred Admission: You’ve been accepted but choose to delay enrollment.Waitlisted: Your admission status is pending space availability in the incoming class. Waitlisted means your application wasn’t immediately accepted but may receive an admission decision at a later date.Does Getting Deferred Affect Your Chances?

A justified deferral generally doesn’t negatively impact your admission status at a later time. However, multiple deferral requests might affect admissions officers’ perceptions of your commitment.

Remember, deferral requests are not guaranteed. Schools want to work with you, but they’re also managing the admission pool, class composition, and institutional priorities. So while it’s not a huge risk to ask, don’t count on it being granted. Always have a backup plan in place.

Improving Your Chances of Approval:

To maximize your chances of securing a deferral:

Clear Communication: Explicitly state your reasons in your deferral letter to help admissions officers make an informed decision.Prompt Submission: Submit your decision application promptly to assist the admissions office in managing the regular decision pool of applicants.Demonstrate Commitment: Quickly complete required deposits and paperwork.Importance of a Letter of Continued Interest:

Including a letter of continued interest reinforces your commitment, updates the admissions office on your current situation, and can significantly improve your chances of securing admission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Avoid these pitfalls:

Late Requests: Submit promptly to avoid complications.Vague Reasons: Explicitly state your reason for the deferral request.Repeated Requests: Multiple deferrals can negatively impact your credibility and lower your chances of acceptance.Not Asking for Support: If you’re uncomfortable making the request or asking for help, remember, you deserve to advocate for yourself. We tell our clients all the time: get used to being the person who asks. Whether it’s an extension, a deferral, or extra clarity, you’re allowed to ask. That’s how opportunities get unlocked.Real-World Example:

An early applicant at the University of Chicago secured deferred admission by clearly explaining how a professional opportunity during senior year would enhance their studies. This informed decision reassured admissions officers, leading to successful deferral approval.

Enhance Your Chances with Professional Guidance:

The Art of Applying Academy provides personalized college admission counseling to effectively manage your deferral.

How We Can Help:Professional Editing: Expertly polish your deferral letters and college applications.Expert Coaching: Learn from recorded guidance sessions and real-life examples.Personalized Support: Schedule personal coaching calls or email consultations.

Although approval isn’t guaranteed, our expertise significantly increases your chances of securing deferred admission.

Key Takeaways on Deferred Admission:Defer admission only when necessary.Clearly communicate your reasons to the admissions office.Act promptly, following institutional guidelines carefully.Leverage resources like The Art of Applying Academy.Strategically Defer Your Admission

Deferred admission provides valuable flexibility during life’s uncertainties. With careful planning and clear communication, you can effectively navigate the deferral process and start your academic journey when fully prepared.

Don’t feel guilty or ashamed for needing to hit pause. Life doesn’t always move in straight lines, and neither does your academic journey. What matters is that you take ownership of your path and ask for what you need, bravely and professionally.

Ready to confidently manage your deferral?

Book a free Quick Call with our team for personalized expert guidance.