What are my chances of being accepted after deferral?

Hey everyone, I'm a little worried about the whole deferral thing. If I get deferred, what are my chances of actually being accepted later on? How can I improve those odds?

Hello! The chances of being accepted after deferral can vary depending on the college and the applicant pool for that year. Some schools admit a substantial number of deferred applicants during the regular decision round, while others may admit only a small percentage.

To improve your odds after being deferred, there are a few steps you can take:

1. Showcase any significant updates: Inform the college of any major accomplishments, awards, or improvements in your grades since you submitted your application. These updates could make you a more competitive applicant in the regular decision pool.

2. Write a letter of continued interest: A letter of continued interest (or LOCI) is a way to communicate that a particular school is still your top choice. In this letter, you can express your enthusiasm for the school, reiterate your interest in attending, and present any relevant updates.

3. Maintain strong grades: Your senior year grades are important, as colleges will consider them when they re-review your application. Keep up your hard work in the classroom and show that you can handle the rigor of a college education.

4. Seek additional recommendations (if appropriate): If you have a new teacher, coach, or mentor who can provide a fresh perspective on your strengths and involvement, consider asking them for a recommendation letter. Be cautious, though—only do this if their input adds something new and insightful to your application.

5. Engage with the college: Follow the college on social media, attend any virtual events or live webinars, and if possible, visit the campus in person if you haven't already done so. Demonstrated interest can be a factor in admissions decisions for some schools, but just make sure not to be too overzealous with your engagement.

Keep in mind that being deferred means the college recognizes your potential and wants to give your application a closer look during the regular decision period. While there's no guarantee of acceptance after deferral, taking these steps can improve your chances and showcase your continued commitment to the school. Good luck!