After submitting your college application, you may be feeling anxious about the decision that lies ahead.

Will you get accepted? Will you be deferred? Will you be rejected? Getting deferred can be a confusing and stressful process, but it’s important to understand what it means and how you can increase your chances of still getting accepted.

What does it mean to be deferred?

When a college defers your application, it means that they have not made a decision yet and will review your application again later in the admissions cycle.

Essentially, they are postponing the final decision until they can review all the applications they receive during regular decision. This is different from being waitlisted, where the college has already made a decision but is deciding whether to admit you based on the availability of spots in the incoming class.

Why might you be deferred?

There are a few reasons why a college might choose to defer your application. Here are some possible reasons:.

1. Your grades or test scores

   If your grades or test scores are on the lower end of what the college is looking for, they may choose to defer your application while they review other candidates. They want to see if there are other applicants who have stronger academics than you.

2. The strength of your application

   Colleges want to admit students who they believe will contribute positively to their campus community. If your application doesn’t demonstrate a strong interest in the school or highlight your achievements enough, they may choose to defer you.

3. The number of applicants

   Some colleges receive a record number of applications each year, making the admissions process even more competitive.

   If the college already has a large number of strong candidates, they may choose to defer your application even if your application is strong to review other applicants before making a final decision.

What should you do if you’re deferred?

If you’re deferred, it can be disheartening, but it’s important not to lose hope. Here are some steps you can take:.

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1. Follow up with the college

   After being deferred, it can be helpful to follow up with the college and ask for feedback on your application. Ask them what you can improve on for your application to be stronger if they allow students to reach out.

   This information can be helpful in making adjustments to your application.

2. Send updates to the college

   Since being deferred means the college is going to review your application again, it’s a good idea to send updates about any recent accomplishments or changes in your life that might strengthen your application.

   Showcase anything you were missing from your application that you can build onto. Send through any new achievement you had to strengthen your resume.

3. Revisit your application essay

   Take a look at the essay you submitted with your application and see if there’s anything you could have done differently.

   Did you fully answer the prompt? Did you highlight your accomplishments enough? Revisiting your essay and making changes can improve your chances of being accepted later.

4. Look for alternative options

   If you’re really invested in going to college, consider looking at other school options that could still be a good fit for you. Many colleges have late application deadlines, and you still have time to apply to those.

Final Thoughts

Getting deferred from college can be discouraging, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be accepted. The key is to take the time to reflect on your application and make any necessary improvements.

Send in any new achievements, focus on showcasing more your interest in the school and strong motivation for being on the campus. By doing so, you’re likely to increase your chances of acceptance.