How do I defer my college acceptance for a year?

I'm thinking about taking a gap year before starting college and I've heard that deferring acceptance is an option. Can someone explain how the deferral process works? I'd also like to know what the risks are of deferring for a year.

Deferring your college acceptance is generally a straightforward, yet formal process. It essentially means you're asking the college to hold your spot for a year while you take that gap year.

Once you’ve been accepted to a college and decided you want to defer, the first step is to contact the admissions office. You'll typically need to give them a written request stating your reasons for deferring. Be aware that the deferment process and the likelihood of approval varies by school. Some schools have a robust deferment policy while others might evaluate requests on a case-by-case basis.

Here's the general sequence of steps you might take:

1. Write a formal letter: In your deferment letter, explain why you're choosing to take a gap year and what you plan to do during that time. The goal here is to show that this time off from school will not be wasted, and it will be highly beneficial for you and subsequently the institution once you matriculate.

2. Submit your deferral request: Submit the letter to the admissions office, preferably by certified mail or through a tracked email.

3. Wait for approval: After your request is submitted, the college will review it. This process can take days to weeks, depending on the college.

Remember to review the college’s specific deferral policy before you begin this process. Some colleges might require you to commit to their institution and pay the deposit before asking for a deferral. Some might limit the activities you can engage in during the gap year.

As for the risks - while deferring college for a year is generally a low-risk choice, there are a few considerations:

1. Financial aid and scholarships: You may need to reapply for financial aid or risk losing any scholarships you were awarded. Check with the college's financial aid office prior to making a deferment request.

2. Readjusting to academic life: The longer you stay out of the academic routine, the harder it may be to get back into studying.

However, well-planned gap years can be enriching and beneficial, giving you experiences and skills that add to your growth and college readiness. If you’re not sure about taking a gap year, consider reaching out to college counselors or current students who took a gap year; they can provide you with rich insights and much needed advice.