What does defer application mean?

Hey everyone, I've come across the term 'defer application' a couple of times while researching the college application process. Could anyone explain to me what it means and how it affects the application timeline? Thanks!

Hey there! The term "defer application" generally refers to one of two scenarios in the college application process:

1. A student chooses to delay their enrollment at a college they've been accepted to. In this case, the student usually requests a deferral, or a gap year, from the college, which allows them to take time off before starting college. The college usually grants this request as long as the student provides a valid reason (such as travel, work, or internships) for why they want to defer their enrollment. Keep in mind that colleges have different policies regarding deferrals, so it's essential to check the individual college's guidelines and deadlines before making any decisions.

2. An applicant's early decision or early action application was not accepted or rejected outright but "deferred" instead. This means that the college has chosen to move the applicant's application to the regular decision pool, and the applicant will receive the final decision on their application with the regular decision applicants. In this scenario, the applicant may have to wait a few more months before receiving their admissions decision. In the meantime, students can send updated academic information, additional letters of recommendation, or any other supporting materials that might strengthen their application before the regular decision deadline.

Both scenarios affect the application timeline differently. In the first case, it extends the time before the student starts college, and in the second case, it delays the applicant's admissions decision. Hopefully, this clears up what "defer application" means and how it can impact the college application process!