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Deferred or Waitlisted? What to Do Next in College Admissions

Written:
December 15, 2024
Updated:
March 26, 2026
Amy Herzog
Debbie Kanter
Expertise You Can Trust
Amy & Debbie
Board-Certified Educational Planners (CEP®)

Every strategy and guide published by North Shore is backed by the board-certified expertise of our Co-Founders. With decades of combined experience in holistic admissions, Amy and Debbie ensure our guidance is objective, unbiased, and focused exclusively on your student's best fit.

A deferral or waitlist is not a rejection. It means the admissions committee needs more context or space before making a final decision. Your next step should be submitting a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) and updating the college with new academic achievements.

Understanding Deferrals vs. Waitlists

While both mean you haven't been accepted yet, a deferral usually happens during the early rounds (pushing your application to Regular Decision), whereas a waitlist occurs during Regular Decision when the class is full but spots may open up.

How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest

Your LOCI should be concise, polite, and reaffirm your commitment to attending if admitted. Use this space to highlight any new awards, improved grades, or significant extracurricular developments that have occurred since your original submission.

What is the difference between a deferral and a waitlist?

A deferral delays your admission decision to the next round, while a waitlist means you meet the criteria but the college does not currently have space in the incoming class.

Should I send another recommendation letter if I am deferred?

Only if the college specifically allows it. Always follow their exact instructions; sending unrequested materials can sometimes hurt your application.

Does a deferral mean I am going to be rejected later?

Not at all. A deferral simply means the college wants to review your application within the context of the larger Regular Decision pool or see your mid-year grades.

Immediate Actions

  • Read the college's specific instructions regarding updates carefully.
  • Write and submit a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI).
  • Send updated mid-year grades showing strong academic performance.
  • Pivot focus to your remaining Regular Decision or Target schools.
Your Next Step

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