Deferred, Not Denied: What To Do When Your College Decision Is Delayed
A deferral usually means the admission office wants more time and context.
You are still being considered!
Seeing the word “deferred” in your portal can feel confusing and disappointing, but it does not mean the college has closed the door on you. A deferral usually means the admission office wants more time and context before making a final decision, often because they still need to review the entire applicant pool or compare candidates across the regular decision round. You are still being considered, and there are practical steps you can take to strengthen your file.
1. Follow the directions in your portal
Your first move should be to log in to your applicant portal and read the college’s instructions very carefully. Some schools clearly state that they do not want any additional materials, while others invite specific updates or documents. When you follow those directions exactly, you show that you can read carefully, respect boundaries, and work within the process the college has designed.
2. Send an updated transcript
Once your first semester or trimester grades are finalized, ask your counselor to send an updated transcript if the college allows it. Strong senior-year grades help confirm that your academic performance is steady or improving and that you are keeping up your effort even after submitting applications. Even if your grades look similar, a clean, solid report reinforces the message that you are reliable and consistent.
3. Share improved test scores
If you have retaken the SAT or ACT and earned higher scores, send them following that college’s score-reporting policy. Fresh, stronger scores can add a boost to the academic side of your application and may help your file stand out in a larger, more competitive pool. Just make sure you only send scores that meet or exceed the college's requirements.
4. Email your admissions officer with updates
When a college welcomes additional information, write a short, professional email to your regional admissions representative. Thank them for continuing to consider your application and then highlight what is new since you first applied—recent awards, leadership roles, significant projects, performances, jobs, or community work. Focus on a handful of meaningful updates, keep the tone courteous and concise, and avoid sending repeated emails unless the college specifically says they are open to further communication.
5. Clearly state if it is your first choice
If this college is truly your top choice and you would enroll if admitted, say that clearly in your message. Let them know you would choose their school over any other option and briefly explain why the academic programs, community, or opportunities are such a strong match. Make this level of commitment to only one college, and only if you are completely sure you will attend.
Moving forward after a deferral
A deferral can feel like a pause button, but it is not the end of your college journey. Use this time to stay focused on your classes, remain engaged in your activities, and finish applications and financial aid steps for your other schools so that you have several good options in the spring. No matter how this one decision turns out, your effort, growth, and resilience will open doors—and you can still end up at a college where you thrive.
