Deferring from College: What's the Real Meaning?

I've heard some students talk about deferring from college, but I'm a bit unclear on what that actually means. Does it imply postponing starting college, or is it something else altogether?

Yes, you're correct. When a student defers their acceptance to a college, it means they have decided to postpone starting their college experience for a certain period, usually for one year. This is something students might choose to do for a variety of reasons. For instance, some students use this time to travel, gain work experience, participate in volunteering initiatives, or just take a break before launching into their college studies.

The procedure for deferring typically involves being accepted to a college and then making a formal request to the admissions office to hold off on enrollment. Each school has its own policies regarding deferral, and some might ask for a detailed plan of what you intend to do during your deferral period. It's important to get in touch with the college and understand their specific deferral policy before you finalize your decision.

Keep in mind that not all schools allow deferrals, and for those that do, the number of students who can defer each year may be limited. Always contact the admissions office of the school you are interested in to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information.