Hey guys, I've heard about students deferring their college applications. Can someone explain what it means to defer an application, and when would it be an appropriate option to choose? Thanks!
Deferring a college application usually means that a student has been accepted to a college but wishes to postpone their admission to a later time, typically by a semester or up to a full academic year. Deferring is often referred to as taking a "gap year." The purpose of deferring is to allow the student additional time for personal, financial, or academic reasons before starting college.
There are a few reasons why a student might choose to defer their application:
1. Personal growth or development: Some students defer to gain life experience, work on personal projects, or volunteer opportunities that align with their career and educational goals.
2. Financial reasons: A student may need time to save money or resolve financial issues before starting college. For other students, a gap year may provide the opportunity to explore scholarships or financial assistance they were not initially awarded.
3. Health or family reasons: Health issues or personal or family obligations may prompt a student to defer their application to focus on resolving these challenges without the added stress of starting college at the same time.
To defer an application, an admitted student typically contacts the admissions office of the college they wish to attend. They should communicate their intention to defer and their reasons for doing so. Colleges have different policies regarding deferred admissions, so it's essential to review the college's specific guidelines and deadlines. Some colleges may require the student to commit to attending after the deferment period (e.g., by submitting an enrollment deposit), while others might ask the student to reapply for admission.
Before choosing to defer your college application, consider your goals for the time you'll be taking off, and be prepared to explain your plans and intentions to the college. Remember that deferring is not guaranteed and is subject to the college's approval. As you develop your plans, remember that many students who take a gap year find it beneficial and return to college with more focus, preparedness, and a clearer sense of their goals.
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