This is part two in our 2 part series of what to do if you have been deferred or waitlisted from your college of choice. If you’ve been deferred this college admissions season, you may be wondering how to best increase your chances of admission while your application is being reconsidered with the next application pool. If you’ve already called the admissions office as we explained in our first deferral blog, your next step is to write a personalized email.
The main purpose of this email is to show your commitment to attend this university sxhould you get an acceptance letter in the future. In addition, this is the time to highlight new information that you may not have been able to include in your initial application. If you have joined a new club, improved in a class, or raised your standardized test score, this is the place to talk about it. Or, if you wish to explain some aspects that may have made you a less competitive candidate and how you have since improved, this is also the place to explain this. The important thing to remember is not to reiterate something that admission already knows.
Here are some steps to take to write a compelling, personalized email:
Frame it positively
Though it’s disappointing to have been deferred, it’s important to look forward to your potential future at the university within your letter and take pride in your achievements since you have applied.
If the university is your top choice, emphasize that
If you’ve been deferred from your true number one university, state that. Your enthusiasm for the school and its programs will show your dedication. Universities will only want to extend acceptances to deferred applicants who want to attend their school should they offer you admission.
Iterate the “Why”
Show that you have thought through exactly why this school will enhance your learning in a way that no other institution can. Talk about specific programs, opportunities, and internships you would take advantage of as a student at that university. Mention professors you’d like to take classes with, clubs you’d like to join, and paint a picture of how you would add to the student body.
Talk about your improvements (or lack of and explain this)
Show how you’ve improved grades, standardized test scores, or involvement in organizations or jobs that may have been points of concern on your application. Universities are always looking for growth and how you may continue to grow when you become a college student.
While deferral is not the result that you wanted, it is important to be positive and keep trying! Remember that the college is trying to take a holistic look at the class they are forming. After the second round of decisions, they might see that you are a good fit. The hardest part is the waiting– some schools will notify students as late as June that they are accepted. Most students will not wait that long and usually move onto their second choice school.
For help in developing your own personalized approach on what to do in this circumstance, you can schedule a consultation with Parros College Planning. We have many years of experience getting students into their top choice colleges, and we would love to help turn your deferral into a second chance at admission at your dream college.
