Deferred vs Regular Decision: What's the Difference?

Hi everyone! Super confused about something, could anyone explain the difference between being deferred and just applying for regular decision? Am I understanding it right that they're basically the same thing?

Hi! The terms "deferred" and "Regular Decision" are related, but they refer to different things in the college application process.

When you apply to a college through an Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED) plan, you receive your decision ahead of Regular Decision applicants. If you're accepted, great! And if you're rejected, you know right away that the school is not an option. However, if you get deferred, the admissions office has decided they'd like to reconsider your application during the Regular Decision application round.

Being deferred means that your application was neither accepted nor rejected. Instead, you move into the larger pool of applicants who are being considered for regular admission. Your application will then be evaluated along with the rest of the Regular Decision applicants.

On the other hand, Regular Decision refers to the standard timeline and process by which most applicants apply to colleges. When applying Regular Decision, you typically submit your application by January 1 or later, and colleges release their decisions around April 1. If you apply via Regular Decision, your application follows the standard course, and you won't receive a decision earlier like EA/ED applicants.

So, while a deferred decision ultimately places you in the Regular Decision applicant pool, they are not the same thing.

Deferred status is just a different way to enter the Regular Decision pool, whereas Regular Decision is the standard application process most students follow. It's important to note that your chances of being admitted as a deferred candidate can vary depending on the institution. If you're deferred, you should consider reaching out to the admissions office, expressing your continued interest, and potentially sending updates on any recent achievements.

Good luck with your applications!