Deferred, Not Denied: What Students Should Do After a College Deferral
A deferral from a college means they are still interested. They’ve read the application and decided they want to see more before making a final decision. What you do next can truly matter. Below you will see our suggestions on what students should and should not do after being deferred.
First: Take a Breath and Reframe. A deferral is not a rejection. Colleges defer students when:
The applicant pool is unusually strong
They want to compare students across the full cycle
They need updated academic or personal information
Your job now is to strengthen your file, not panic.
What You Should Do After a Deferral
1. Be aware - each school handles deferrals differently!
Be sure to review information in your deferral letter or portal, paying close attention to what is and is not allowed along with important deadlines.
2. Send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)
This is the single most important next step—if the college allows it. A strong LOCI should:
Clearly state that the school remains one of your top choices
Reaffirm that you would enroll if admitted (only say this if it’s true)
Be concise, positive, and forward-looking
3. Include Meaningful Updates
Admissions officers already have your original application. What they want now is new information. Strong updates include:
Mid-year or first-semester grades
(This is critical—strong academic performance helps a lot.)
New test scores (SAT/ACT) if they are higher
Existing test scores - If you applied test optional, some schools will allow you to still submit your scores. To see if your score falls within the 50% average for each school, check out our blog, “What is a Good SAT Score?” that includes a graph of average SAT scores from universities across the country
AP/Dual Credit Classes taken senior year that align with your first choice major
Existing test scores - If you applied test optional, some schools will allow you to still submit your scores. To see if your score falls within the 50% average for each school, see our SAT score chart [here].
New or expanded leadership roles
(Team captain, club officer, founder, committee lead)
Awards or honors received this semester
Notable accomplishments
(Research milestones, performances, competitions, publications, service impact)
4. Keep Your High School Counselor in the Loop
Some schools require an updated official high school transcript submitted by the counselor.
5. Continue Excelling Where You Are
Colleges will look closely at:
Senior-year rigor
Academic consistency
Follow-through on commitments
6. Stay Engaged—Appropriately
If the college offers:
Optional interviews
Virtual info sessions
Accepted student-style programming for deferred students
What Not to Do After a Deferral
1. Don’t Constantly Email the Admissions Office
2. Don’t Repeat Your Original Application
3. Don’t Send Extra Materials Unless Requested
If you would like to discuss next steps or need help with a Letter of Continued Interest, reach out to us to set up an appointment! We are here for you!