Getting deferred during the early application round can be a tough pill to swallow. But hold on! It’s not a rejection. It just means the college wants to take a closer look at you during the regular decision round. Instead of feeling discouraged, use this as an opportunity to strengthen your application and show them what you’re made of.
1. Craft a Stand-Out Deferral Letter
A deferral letter is your chance to reiterate your interest in the college and showcase your growth since your initial application. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Express continued enthusiasm: Reaffirm your passion for the college and why it’s your top choice. Be specific! Mention programs, professors, or research opportunities that genuinely excite you.
- Highlight recent achievements: Have you improved your grades? Won an award? Taken on a new leadership role? Share any updates that demonstrate your progress and commitment to excellence.
- Showcase your “so what”: Connect your recent experiences to your passions and long-term goals. How do they reinforce your fit with the college’s values and mission?
- Expand your horizons: Pursue a passion project: Start a blog, write a short story, compose a song, or create an art portfolio. This showcases your creativity and initiative. Take an online course: Explore a subject that fascinates you through platforms like Coursera or edX. This demonstrates your intellectual curiosity and commitment to lifelong learning.
- Keep it concise and focused: Aim for a letter that’s no more than one page and avoids repetition from your original application.
2. Boost Your Academic Profile
Colleges want to see continued academic strength. Here’s how to demonstrate your commitment:
- Maintain (or improve) your grades: Senioritis is a real thing, but resist the urge to slack off! Colleges will request your mid-year grades, so keep pushing for those A’s and B’s.
- Challenge yourself: If possible, take on a rigorous course or an independent study that aligns with your interests. This demonstrates your intellectual curiosity and willingness to go the extra mile.
3. Strengthen Your Recommendations
An additional letter of recommendation can provide a fresh perspective on your strengths and growth.
- Choose wisely: Select a teacher, mentor, or supervisor who knows you well and can speak to your recent achievements and potential.
- Provide context: Give your recommender updated information about your activities, accomplishments, and goals since your initial application.
Turning a Deferral into an Acceptance
Remember, a deferral isn’t a setback; it’s a second chance (fine print: about 10% of highly selective universities accept deferral students in the regular round– but this shouldn’t shock anyone by now). By taking proactive steps to strengthen your application and demonstrate your continued interest, you can increase your chances of turning that “maybe” into a “yes.”
Selective Colleges who historically defer applicants:
Harvard, Columbia, USC, Michigan, Georgetown
Need help with your deferral letter?
Unlock a helpful template here!
Helping you soar sooner,
Carrie
P.S. Questions? Drop me a line!
