What does deferral mean in the university context?

Hello! I'm kind of confused about the term deferral in the context of university admissions. Could someone explain to me what it means when a student gets a deferral, and what happens afterward?

Deferral in the university context refers to a decision made by a college or university when they review an applicant's Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) application. Instead of accepting or rejecting the applicant, the admissions committee decides to defer their decision to a later date, usually during the Regular Decision (RD) application review period.

When a student gets a deferral, it means their application has neither been accepted nor denied and will be reconsidered alongside RD applicants. This could be because the admissions committee needs more time or information to make a decision—for instance, if they want to see an applicant's first semester senior grades or if there's a particularly competitive applicant pool.

After receiving a deferral, it's essential for the student to reassess their application and consider taking the following steps:

1. Update the college with any new significant achievements, such as awards, leadership positions, or improvements in grades.

2. Keep up the academic rigor, as it's possible the college will request mid-year reports or other updates on your application.

3. Reiterate your interest in attending the institution. Some colleges appreciate demonstrated interest, so consider sending a letter or email expressing your continued enthusiasm and why the college remains a top choice for you.

4. Review your application and make sure there were no mistakes or omissions that could have led to your deferral.

5. Continue applying to other colleges during the RD round to keep your options open.

After the RD review period, the deferred applicant will receive one of the following outcomes: acceptance, rejection, or (in some cases) a waitlist offer. Keep in mind that deferral doesn't mean rejection; it's still possible to be accepted during the RD round. Stay positive and proactive in your college application process. Good luck!