Defer Admission at Berkeley College of Engineering

Does UC Berkeley allow students in the College of Engineering to defer admission, especially if I need a year to figure things out? I'd like to understand the process and any limitations they might have.

UC Berkeley does allow incoming freshmen to request a gap year, a deferral of their admission for a year, following high school graduation. To be eligible, you must have already accepted your offer of admission. It's also pertinent to mention that not all requests are granted; they are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and must demonstrate a strong, well-thought-out plan and intent for the year, whether that's pursuing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, gaining work experience, recovering from a health setback, or addressing financial circumstances, etc.

Regarding the College of Engineering specifically, I would recommend contacting the college's admissions office directly for any specific policies they may have.

Once you've made your plans and decided to go forth with the gap year request, you will submit your request for deferment through your applicant portal.

Also keep in mind, if your gap year includes any academic studies, you'll need to submit transcripts from the respective academic institution. Upon return, you will need to submit a statement of intent to register within the given deadline to confirm your spot for the following year.

Remember, it never hurts to check out all of your options and ensure that a gap year is the right choice for you. It can be a valuable experience, but it's also a decision to carefully consider given the shift it can cause in your academic timeline. Good luck with your decision!