Take a Deep Breath—A Deferral Is Not a Rejection
You’ve been checking your email or admissions portal anxiously, waiting for that decision. And then, instead of a clear “Accepted” or “Rejected,” you see the word Deferred—a frustrating in-between. If you’re feeling disappointed, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: a deferral means the college is still interested in you. They just want more information before making a final decision.
Now is not the time to feel defeated—it’s time to take action. Many students who are deferred do get admitted in the regular decision round. By understanding why you were deferred and taking the right steps, you can strengthen your application and improve your chances of admission.
What Does Being Deferred Mean?
A deferral means that your application, originally reviewed during the early action (EA) or early decision (ED) round, has been pushed to the regular decision pool for reconsideration. It is not a rejection—just a “not yet.”
Colleges use deferrals when they want more time to evaluate an applicant in the broader context of the entire applicant pool. They may be waiting to see mid-year grades, additional test scores, or more demonstrated interest.
The key takeaway? You’re still in the running!
Why Was Your Application Deferred? (2025 Admissions Trends)
Understanding why a college might have deferred your application can help you decide what steps to take next. Some of the most common reasons for deferrals in 2025 include:
- Record-high application numbers: Many schools continue to receive an overwhelming number of applications, making the selection process even more competitive.
- Test-optional uncertainty: If you applied without test scores, the admissions committee may want to see mid-year grades or additional academic indicators.
- A highly competitive applicant pool: Even strong students are being deferred because colleges need more time to compare applicants across different rounds.
- Demonstrated interest concerns: Some schools track engagement—if you haven’t visited, attended virtual events, or interacted with the school, they may question your commitment.
- Need for updated information: A deferral often signals that the admissions office wants more details, such as senior year grades or recent accomplishments.
The most important thing now is what you do next—and that starts with understanding what the college expects from you.
What Colleges Want You to Do Next
Most colleges will provide guidance on next steps in your deferral notice. Here’s what to do:
✅ Read the college’s instructions carefully. Some schools encourage additional materials, while others prefer you to wait. Always follow their guidelines.
✅ Submit mid-year grades. If your first-semester senior year grades are strong, they can help bolster your application.
✅ Update your application (if allowed). Some schools allow you to submit additional test scores, awards, or updated resumes.
✅ Write a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI). This is one of the best ways to reaffirm your enthusiasm and provide meaningful updates.
✅ Demonstrate engagement. If the college values demonstrated interest, attend virtual events, engage with admissions reps, or visit campus if possible.
How to Write a Strong Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)
A Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) is your chance to remind the college why you’re a great fit and update them on any new accomplishments.
What to Include in Your LOCI:
✔ Gratitude & Positivity – Thank the admissions committee for reviewing your application and reiterate your enthusiasm for the school.
✔ Why This College? – Reaffirm why the school is your top choice (but don’t say it’s your top choice unless you would 100% attend if accepted).
✔ New Achievements – Highlight significant updates since you applied (stronger grades, new awards, leadership roles, internships, or community involvement).
✔ Academic & Extracurricular Growth – If applicable, mention any coursework or projects that have deepened your interest in your intended major.
✔ A Professional & Concise Tone – Keep it to one page—this is not another essay.
What to Avoid in Your LOCI:
❌ Begging or sounding desperate – Confidence is key! Avoid phrases like “I will do anything to get in.”
❌ Rewriting your application essay – Focus on updates and enthusiasm, not repeating old information.
❌ Making excuses for past performance – If you’ve improved your grades, highlight that rather than dwelling on previous struggles.
Here’s a quick example of a strong LOCI opening:
“Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name],
I want to sincerely thank you for reviewing my application and for offering me the opportunity to be considered in the regular decision round. [College Name] remains my top choice, and I am more excited than ever about the possibility of joining the [specific program/department] this fall. Since submitting my application, I have [list one or two significant updates], which have strengthened my passion for [intended major/interest]. I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to the next steps in the process.”
What Else Can Sway a College to Accept You?
Beyond the LOCI, here are a few additional ways to strengthen your case:
- Maintain or improve your grades – Colleges will review mid-year reports, so finishing strong is crucial.
- Retake standardized tests (if applicable) – If your scores were borderline, submitting improved results could help.
- Secure a new letter of recommendation – Some colleges allow additional recommendations, especially if they provide new insights.
- Show continued involvement – Stay active in leadership roles, extracurriculars, and community service.
Final Thoughts: Keep Moving Forward
Being deferred is frustrating, but it is not the end of the road. Many students go on to gain admission after a deferral—especially those who take proactive steps.
Stay positive, follow the college’s guidelines, and use this opportunity to strengthen your application. And most importantly, remember that your worth is not defined by a single college decision. There are many schools where you can thrive!
Need Help Crafting a Strong LOCI or Next Steps?
If you or your student need guidance on writing a compelling LOCI, strategizing post-deferral steps, or navigating the admissions process, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out—I’d love to support you on this journey!
