Can I defer going to college after getting accepted?

I'm considering taking a gap year after high school. If I'm accepted to a college, is it possible to defer my admission for a year? What steps do I need to take to make this happen?

Deferring admission for a gap year after high school is indeed an option at many colleges. While policies can vary from school to school, many institutions are supportive of students who wish to take a gap year, often citing the perspective and life experience that students bring back to their academic endeavors.

First, the key action you need to take is to be accepted to the college. Once you receive your acceptance, reach out to the admissions office directly and ask about their deferral policy.

Most schools will require a written deferral request that explains your reason for deferring and your planned activities during the gap year. The deferral request is usually a formal letter that should be submitted no later than the deposit deadline for incoming freshman. Other schools may require you to submit a deposit to secure your spot for the following year.

The decision to grant a deferral is at the discretion of each college, so it's important to respect their process. Some colleges encourage gap years, while others may be less enthusiastic. Factors that can influence the college's decision include the strength of your plans for the gap year and the overall number of students requesting to defer their admission in a given year.

Keep in mind that if your deferral request is not accepted, you usually have the option to reapply to the college during your gap year.

Remember also that, if you have financial aid or scholarships, you should reach out to the financial aid office at the college and ask how the deferral might impact your package. In some cases, the award you received for your original year of entry cannot be guaranteed for the following year.

It's important to have a plan for your gap year and to communicate this plan clearly to the colleges you're interested in. This could involve travel, work, internships, or volunteer experiences; colleges are often interested in how the gap year will contribute to your personal growth and readiness for college.

Overall, taking a gap year can be a great opportunity. Best of luck with your plans!