What Are the Different Types of College Deferral?

If you're researching how to defer college to take a gap year, you may have come across two types of deferrals. 

One is deferral for a second review, which might sound concerning—does this mean you have to reapply? The other is deferral for later enrollment, which allows you to accept your spot but start a year later. 

Let’s break it down so you can move forward with confidence and focus on planning your gap year abroad. 

What Is “Deferral for a Second Review”? 

If you applied to college through an early decision or early action process, you might receive a notice that your application has been deferred for a second review. This means that instead of being accepted or denied right away, your application is moved to the regular decision pool for further consideration. 

Colleges do this when they want to see how you compare to a larger group of applicants or if they need more time to assess your qualifications. While it can be disappointing not to receive an immediate acceptance, it’s not a rejection—just a delay in their decision-making process. 

If you receive this type of deferral, it’s important to stay proactive by keeping an eye out for any communications from the college—especially if they request additional materials, such as updated transcripts or recommendation letters. It’s also a good idea to explore other college options to ensure you have a solid backup plan. 

If you’re thinking about taking a gap year abroad and want to request a later start date to a college that has already accepted you, this type of deferral is not the one you need to focus on—rather, you should look for "deferral for later enrollment." 

What Is “Deferral for Later Enrollment”? (And Why You Need It for a Gap Year) 

Requesting a deferral for later enrollment means asking your college for permission to postpone your start date by one year while keeping your accepted spot secure. If you're planning to take a gap year after high school, there's no doubt—deferral for later enrollment is the most responsible way to go about it.  

Here's why:  

Knowing your college plans are set lets you fully enjoy your gap year. Without the stress of applications, deadlines, and uncertainty, you can focus on personal growth, cultural exploration, and skill-building, making the most of your time abroad.  

You have access to key resources when you apply while still in high school. Teachers, administrators, and college advisors can guide you through applications, ensure transcripts are sent on time, and assist with recommendation letters, making the process far easier than doing it alone later. 

Applying with your high school friends creates a built-in support system. Going through the college application process together means you can share resources, help each other stay on track, and celebrate acceptance as a group, making the experience less stressful and more rewarding. 

Applying to U.S. colleges while on your gap year is much harder than applying from home. Navigating time zone differences, slow bureaucratic processes, and international mailing delays can make obtaining essential documents like transcripts and recommendation letters frustratingly difficult, adding unnecessary stress to your experience abroad. 

How To Defer College Acceptance 

Many colleges allow students to defer enrollment for a gap year, and some even encourage it. However, each school has its own policies, so you must check your college’s specific deferral guidelines. By understanding and following your college’s policies, you can confidently take a gap year abroad while ensuring your place in the next incoming class remains secure. 

While each school is different, generally, the process of requesting deferral for later enrollment looks something like this: 

1. Be Accepted to a College 
   Deferring enrollment is only an option after you’ve been officially accepted. You cannot apply for a deferral before being admitted, nor can you defer for more than the college allows (typically one year).
2. Check Your College’s Deferral Policy 
   Look for a “gap year policy” on your college’s website. Their policy will tell you how to apply and for how long you can defer college acceptance. Some institutions allow students to defer their enrollment simply by submitting a request through an online form, while others have a more detailed process that requires a written statement outlining your gap year plans and, in some cases, additional documentation or a deposit.
3. Plan a Meaningful Gap Year 
   Some colleges may want to know how you plan to spend your gap year before approving your deferral. Whether you’re traveling, interning, volunteering, or developing new skills, having a clear plan demonstrates that you’re using the time productively. A structured program like CIEE’s gap year abroad makes it easy to build global experience while exploring your passions.
4. Submit a Formal Deferral Request 
   Usually a simple letter or form explaining why you want to defer and how you’ll use the year productively. Some schools require a deposit to hold your spot.
5. Meet Any Requirements 
   Double-check deadlines and requirements to keep your admission secure. 

Read our blog on How to Defer College Acceptance for a Gap Year Abroad. 

Why Many Colleges Support Students Taking a Gap Year 

Many colleges recognize that taking a gap year can benefit students both academically and personally and even actively encourage it. 

So why take a gap year? Recent research shows amazing benefits for students who decide to take a gap year, including:  

• Higher Academic Performance: Gap-year students tend to have stronger GPAs and are more engaged in their studies.
• Increased Graduation Rates: Those who take a gap year are more likely to graduate on time.
• Improved Job Satisfaction: Students who take a gap year often make more informed career choices and report greater long-term job satisfaction.
• Development of Life Skills: Time spent abroad or in hands-on experiences helps students build independence, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. 

Recognizing these benefits, top universities—including Harvard and MIT—actively encourage students to take a gap year and have policies that make deferring enrollment easy. 

Take the Leap With CIEE 

Choosing to take a gap year abroad is an exciting decision, and with the right plan in place, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.  

If you want to immerse yourself in a new culture and develop your foreign language skills, CIEE’s structured gap year programs provide everything you need to make the most of your time before college. 

With CIEE, you’ll have access to expert support, immersive experiences, and a global network that helps you return to college more prepared and inspired than ever. 

Explore CIEE’s gap year programs and start planning your adventure today!