Gap Year College Deferral Guide: How to Postpone Your Admission (Step-by-Step)

Congratulations! You’ve been accepted to college! Before you accept the general praise, maybe you want to go at a later date. Curious as to what is a gap year or why you should take one? Well, read on!

When you’re thinking of taking a gap year, the good news is that colleges may allow you to defer your enrollment and come back the following academic year with your spot saved. Even better, taking a gap year doesn’t mean you are going to fall behind.

This guide will walk you through how to defer admission in 2025, what schools require, and how to improve the chances of getting your deferment request approved.

Get Our College Deferment Letter Templates

Hand-drawn illustration of a student writing a college deferment letter to take a gap year — Illustration of a student writing a college deferment letter for a gap year. Hand-drawn illustration for editorial use.

What Is College Deferment and How It Works For Gap Year

Deferment is the process of delaying your college start date, usually by one academic year, while holding your place in the incoming class.

Here’s exactly what admissions officers look for in deferment requests:

Specific, structured plans (not “I want to find myself”)
Clear connection between gap year activities and academic/career goals
Demonstration that you’ve researched and committed to activities
Evidence you understand the college’s deferment policy

Your Deferment Action Plan – Track Your Progress:

Week 1: Research your college’s specific deferment policy
Week 2: Draft your deferment letter using our template
Week 3: Finalize gap year plans and gather documentation
Week 4: Submit request and pay enrollment deposit
Month 2: Apply for gap year programs or confirm positions

Quick Decision Flow: Should You Defer?

🤔 Should You Defer? Quick Decision Flow:

Got into your dream school?

├─ NO → Have specific gap year plans?

│      ├─ YES → DEFER

│      └─ NO → Create plans first

└─ YES → Take the spot, gap year later

Most colleges require that you:

Accept your offer and pay your enrollment fee.
Submit and complete a formal deferment request (usually through a letter) before a set deadline.
Provide a clear plan for what you’ll be doing during your year off.

Universities like NYU review deferment requests on a case by case basis.

Important: Students that enroll in courses for credit at another institution during your deferment may lose their freshman status and have to reapply as a transfer student.

Will my kid ever return to college?

According to a summary published in Harvard Business Review, studies found no difference in college matriculation or graduation rates between gap year takers and their peers. In fact, gap year alumni may even perform better academically (DiDonna 3).

97% of gap year alumni reported no negative impact on finishing their bachelor’s degree.

Positive/Neutral

Negative

Source: (Gap Year Association 11)

Take Our Gap Year vs College Decision Quiz

Which Universities Allow Deferred Enrollment?

Students on a gap year college deferral enjoying desert adventures with new friends abroad. — Gap year college deferral students often form close bonds while exploring the world together.

The majority of U.S. institutions, including Ivy League schools like Harvard, Princeton, and Yale, will encourage students to take purposeful time off. In the past, taking a gap year was not common. Now, though, the debate of “gap year vs college” is starting to even.

It’s important to keep in mind that every school has different policies regarding who is eligible for deferment:

University	Deferral Allowed?	Conditions
Harvard	Yes	One year max, no other college enrollment
Princeton	Yes	Structured plan required
NYU	Yes	Reviewed case by case
UCLA	No	Must reapply
University of Michigan	Yes	Deferral request + enrollment deposit required

Deadlines may vary. For example:

Domestic students must submit deferment requests for Spring 2026 by Dec 22, 2025
International students must submit theirs by Jan 22, 2026

2025 Gap Year Deferment Requirements by School Type:

Ivy League Schools (Structured Expectations)

Policy Overview: Most Ivy League schools, including Harvard and Princeton, support gap years for students with well-structured plans.
Requirements:
Submission of a detailed plan outlining how the gap year will be spent.
- Activities should not include enrollment in another degree-granting program.
Examples:
- Harvard University: Encourages deferrals for meaningful activities such as travel, work, or service, provided students do not enroll elsewhere.
- Princeton University: Offers the Novogratz Bridge Year Program focusing on service; also considers individual deferral requests.

Public Universities (Variable Flexibility)

Policy Overview: Policies vary widely; some institutions are more accommodating than others.
Examples:
- University of California System: Deferrals are generally rare and considered on a case-by-case basis, often limited to one semester or year.
- University of Michigan: Typically grants deferments for one year for reasons like military service or unique opportunities; taking credit-bearing courses elsewhere during the deferment is discouraged.
- University of Texas at Austin: Does not have a formal deferral policy; students may need to reapply if they choose not to enroll in their admitted term.

Private Liberal Arts Colleges (Holistic Considerations)

Policy Overview: These institutions often value personal growth and unique experiences during gap years.
Examples:
- Williams College: Has a flexible gap year policy and typically approves well-planned requests.
- Amherst College: Considers deferral requests, often approving those that involve meaningful engagement.
- Swarthmore College: Reviews deferral requests on a case-by-case basis; students must apply in writing to the dean of admissions.

Community Colleges (Highly Flexible)

Policy Overview: Generally offer rolling admissions and are accommodating of students who wish to delay enrollment.
Considerations:
- Policies vary by institution; it’s important to check with the specific community college for their deferment policies.

Gap Year Deferment Policies for U.S. Universities [Updated May 2025]

Information not available.

University	Defer?	Policy Summary
Brown University	Yes	Brown routinely grants 1-year deferrals to admitted students who request in writing by May 15 and agree not to enroll elsewhere during the gap year.
Cornell University	Yes	Cornell encourages gap years and allows first-year admits to defer for 1–2 years; students must submit a deferral form and not enroll elsewhere.
Dartmouth College	Yes	Admitted students may request a one-year gap year after accepting admission; approval is common, but two-year deferrals are rare.
Harvard University	Yes	Harvard encourages admitted students to take a gap year; most requests for 1-year deferral are approved, as long as the student does not enroll elsewhere.
MIT	Yes	MIT encourages gap years and approves most 1–2 year deferral requests, provided the student does not enroll at another college.
Pomona College	Yes	First-years may request a one-year deferral by May 1 and submit gap year plans; no deferral for less than a year, and may not enroll elsewhere.
Princeton University	Yes	Princeton allows 1-year deferrals, including through its Bridge Year program; students must not enroll elsewhere and must accept the offer before requesting.
University of Michigan	Yes	U-M typically grants 1-year deferrals for personal reasons, but students cannot take college coursework during the gap year.
University of Pennsylvania	Yes	Penn reviews 1-year gap year requests individually; students must submit the form after accepting admission and not enroll elsewhere.
University of Virginia	Yes	UVA allows 1-year deferrals if requested before enrollment and student does not enroll elsewhere; taking college credits may void the deferral.
Yale University	Yes	Yale regularly approves 1-year deferrals and will consider 2-year requests for special cases; students may not enroll elsewhere.
Stanford University	Yes	Stanford considers 1-year deferral requests on a case-by-case basis; students must explain their plans and not enroll elsewhere.
Columbia University	Yes	Columbia generally approves deferrals for up to 1 year in extraordinary circumstances; formal written request required; no enrollment elsewhere.
Duke University	Yes	Duke allows gap year deferral for admitted students who submit a written plan; no college coursework elsewhere is permitted during the gap year.
Northwestern University	Yes	Northwestern allows 1-year deferral for personal growth if requested by May 1; student cannot enroll elsewhere.
University of Chicago	Yes	UChicago permits admitted students to request a 1-year deferral with a written plan; deferrals are not automatic and subject to review.
Rice University	Yes	Rice grants gap year deferrals on a case-by-case basis; written request and plan required, and student cannot enroll elsewhere.
Vanderbilt University	Yes	Vanderbilt allows 1-year deferral if requested in writing; students must not enroll elsewhere or take college coursework during the gap year.
Emory University	Yes	Emory considers gap year requests for admitted students who provide a plan and do not enroll elsewhere; usually one year.
University of Southern California	Yes	USC reviews deferral requests on a case-by-case basis; student must not enroll elsewhere; written request required.
University of Florida	Yes	UF considers deferral requests for extraordinary circumstances, reviewed individually; student cannot enroll elsewhere.
Georgetown University	Yes	Georgetown allows admitted students to defer enrollment for one year for compelling reasons; requests must be made by May 1 and are considered individually. No enrollment elsewhere permitted during deferral.
Boston College	Yes	Boston College permits deferral requests for one year for reasons such as travel, work, or military service. Requests must be submitted in writing and are not automatically granted.
Tufts University	Yes	Tufts allows admitted students to request a one-year deferral for gap years or other pursuits by May 1; students must not enroll at another institution during the year.
University of Notre Dame	Yes	Notre Dame permits one-year deferrals on a case-by-case basis; written request and gap year plan required. Students must not attend another institution during deferral.
Wake Forest University	Yes	Wake Forest allows first-year students to defer enrollment for one year by written request with explanation by May 1. Students may not enroll elsewhere during deferral.
Ohio State University	Yes	Ohio State reviews first-year deferral requests on a case-by-case basis; requests must be submitted by May 1 and students cannot attend another school during deferral.
University of Wisconsin–Madison	Yes	UW–Madison permits admitted students to defer enrollment for one year for specific reasons (e.g. travel, military); request must be submitted by May 1.
Purdue University	Yes	Purdue allows first-year admits to defer enrollment for up to one year with an official request before May 1. No credits from another college permitted during deferral.
Penn State University	Yes	Penn State may grant first-year admission deferrals for up to one year for compelling circumstances; written request required and no attendance elsewhere allowed.
University of Georgia	Yes	UGA allows first-year students to request a one-year deferral for gap year, military, or medical reasons; must not enroll elsewhere and must submit written request.
University of Maryland	Yes	UMD permits admitted freshmen to defer for one year for reasons such as travel, military, or service. Must submit written request and not enroll elsewhere.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	Yes	UIUC considers gap year/deferral requests for first-year admits; must submit request by May 1 and not attend another institution during deferral.
Indiana University Bloomington	Yes	IU Bloomington allows first-year students to defer for up to one year for compelling reasons (e.g. gap year, service); must not enroll elsewhere.
University of Minnesota Twin Cities	Yes	UMN considers gap year deferral requests on a case-by-case basis for first-year students; written request and explanation required.
University of Colorado Boulder	Yes	CU Boulder allows admitted first-year students to defer enrollment for one year for reasons like gap year, service, or travel. Written request required; no other college allowed.
Texas A&M University	Yes	Texas A&M considers deferral requests for up to one year for reasons like gap year, service, or health; must submit by May 1 and not attend elsewhere.
University of Washington	Yes	UW Seattle considers enrollment deferral requests for first-year students for one year on a case-by-case basis; request must be made in writing.
University of Iowa	Yes	Iowa allows first-year admits to defer for one year for reasons such as gap year or service. Students cannot attend another institution during deferral.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln	Yes	UNL allows first-year students to defer for one year for reasons like gap year, military, or service; must not enroll elsewhere during deferral.
University of Arizona	Yes	UA permits deferral requests for up to one year for gap year, service, or health; written request and explanation required.
Rutgers University–New Brunswick	Yes	Rutgers considers gap year/deferral requests for one year for admitted first-year students; must not enroll elsewhere and must submit by deadline.
University of Kansas	Yes	KU permits deferral for up to one year for first-year admits with written request and valid reason (gap year, service, etc.); no credits elsewhere.
Michigan State University	Yes	MSU reviews deferral requests for one year for compelling reasons; written request must be submitted before classes start; student cannot attend elsewhere.
University of Tennessee Knoxville	Yes	UT Knoxville considers deferral requests for one year for admitted first-years; must submit a written request with reason and not enroll elsewhere.
Virginia Tech	Yes	Virginia Tech allows first-year deferral for up to one year for gap year, military, or service; must submit request by June 1 and not enroll elsewhere.
University of Connecticut	Yes	UConn considers deferral requests for one year for first-year admits on a case-by-case basis. Written request required; students may not enroll elsewhere.
University of Delaware	Yes	UD allows one-year deferrals for first-year admits for gap year, service, or military. Written request required by June 1; no college coursework elsewhere.
University of Oklahoma	Yes	OU reviews gap year/deferral requests for one year for compelling reasons. Written request required; students may not enroll elsewhere.
University of Kentucky	Yes	UK allows one-year deferrals for first-year students for gap year, service, or military reasons. Requests must be made in writing and are reviewed individually.
Auburn University	Yes	Auburn permits first-year students to request a one-year deferral for gap year, service, or medical reasons; written request and explanation required.
University of South Carolina	Yes	USC considers first-year deferral requests for up to one year; requests must be made in writing before July 1. Students may not enroll elsewhere.
Clemson University	Yes	Clemson allows admitted first-year students to defer for up to one year for gap year, medical, or service reasons. Written request required; not automatic.
SUNY Binghamton	Yes	Binghamton University reviews deferral requests for one year for first-year admits for gap year or service; written request required, must not enroll elsewhere.
SUNY Albany	Yes	University at Albany allows one-year deferral for compelling reasons (gap year, military, health); must submit written request and not enroll elsewhere.
University of California, Davis	Yes	UC Davis considers gap year/deferral requests on a case-by-case basis for compelling reasons; written request and supporting documentation required.
California State University, Long Beach	Yes	CSULB reviews first-year deferral requests for one year for valid reasons (military, health, service); written request and no credits elsewhere.
San Diego State University	Yes	SDSU allows one-year deferrals for first-year students in limited cases (military, health, religious); written request and explanation required.
University of Nevada, Reno	Yes	UNR considers first-year deferral requests for up to one year for gap year, service, or medical reasons; written request required.
University of Oregon	Yes	UO permits first-year students to defer for one year for gap year, military, or health; written request and explanation required.
Oregon State University	Yes	OSU considers first-year deferral requests for up to one year for valid reasons; written request and no credits elsewhere.
Washington State University	Yes	WSU allows first-year admits to defer enrollment for up to one year for valid reasons; written request and explanation required.
Montana State University	Yes	MSU reviews one-year deferral requests for first-year students for compelling reasons (gap year, service); written request required; must not enroll elsewhere.
University of Montana	Yes	UM allows one-year deferral for first-year students for gap year, health, or military reasons; written request and no other college credits.
University of Idaho	Yes	Idaho reviews first-year deferral requests for one year for valid reasons; written request required; cannot enroll elsewhere during deferral.
Boise State University	Yes	Boise State permits first-year students to defer for one year for gap year, military, or medical reasons; written request and no credits elsewhere.
Utah State University	Yes	USU allows one-year deferral for gap year, military, or medical reasons; request must be submitted in writing before term starts.
University of Utah	Yes	U of Utah reviews deferral requests for up to one year for compelling reasons; must submit written request and not attend elsewhere.
Colorado State University	Yes	CSU allows one-year deferrals for first-year admits for gap year, health, or service; written request and explanation required.
University of New Mexico	Yes	UNM reviews deferral requests for one year for first-year students for compelling reasons; written request required, must not enroll elsewhere.
University of Hawaii at Manoa	Yes	UH Manoa allows first-year admits to defer for one year for gap year, military, or health; written request required, no credits elsewhere.
University of Alaska Fairbanks	Yes	UAF considers one-year deferral requests for gap year, military, or medical reasons; written request and not enrolling elsewhere required.
University of Maine	Yes	UMaine allows first-year students to defer for up to one year for gap year, military, or health; written request required, no credits elsewhere.
University of New Hampshire	Yes	UNH considers one-year deferral requests for gap year, service, or medical reasons; written request and explanation required; no credits elsewhere.
University of Vermont	Yes	UVM permits first-year students to defer for up to one year for gap year, military, or health; written request required and not enroll elsewhere.
Appalachian State University	Yes	App State permits first-year students to request a one-year deferral for gap year, military, or medical reasons. Written request required; must not enroll elsewhere.
Ball State University	Yes	Ball State allows first-year admits to defer for one year for valid reasons (gap year, service); request in writing required.
Baylor University	Yes	Baylor considers deferral requests for one year for gap year, military, or medical reasons; written explanation required, and no credits elsewhere.
Belmont University	Yes	Belmont permits one-year deferrals for first-year students with compelling reasons; written request required; student must not enroll elsewhere.
Bentley University	Yes	Bentley allows first-year students to defer for up to one year for gap year, military, or medical reasons. Request must be made in writing; not automatic.
Butler University	Yes	Butler permits first-year students to defer enrollment for one year for valid reasons; request must be submitted in writing.
Chapman University	Yes	Chapman allows first-year admits to request a one-year deferral for gap year, military, or medical reasons; written explanation required.
Clark University	Yes	Clark considers first-year deferral requests for up to one year for gap year, service, or medical reasons; written request required.
Cleveland State University	Yes	CSU permits first-year students to defer for up to one year for valid reasons; must submit written request and not enroll elsewhere.
College of Charleston	Yes	CofC allows first-year students to defer for up to one year for gap year, military, or medical reasons. Written request required.
Creighton University	Yes	Creighton considers first-year deferral requests for up to one year for gap year, service, or medical reasons; must not enroll elsewhere.
Drexel University	Yes	Drexel allows one-year deferrals for first-year admits for compelling reasons; must submit written request and not enroll elsewhere.
Eastern Michigan University	Yes	EMU allows first-year students to request a one-year deferral for gap year, service, or medical reasons; written request and not enrolling elsewhere.
Elon University	Yes	Elon permits first-year students to defer for up to one year for gap year, service, or medical reasons; written request and explanation required.
Florida Atlantic University	Yes	FAU allows first-year students to defer for one year for gap year, service, or medical reasons; must submit written request.
Florida International University	Yes	FIU considers first-year deferral requests for up to one year for gap year, military, or health reasons; written request and not attending elsewhere.
Fordham University	Yes	Fordham allows first-year students to request a one-year deferral for gap year, service, or medical reasons; written request required.
Gonzaga University	Yes	Gonzaga reviews deferral requests for first-year students for up to one year; written request and explanation required; not automatic.
Grand Valley State University	Yes	GVSU permits one-year deferrals for first-year students for compelling reasons; must submit request in writing and not enroll elsewhere.
Illinois State University	Yes	ISU allows first-year students to request a one-year deferral for gap year, military, or medical reasons; written request required.
James Madison University	Yes	JMU permits first-year students to defer for one year for gap year, military, or medical reasons; written request required, must not enroll elsewhere.
Kennesaw State University	Yes	KSU allows first-year admits to defer for one year for valid reasons; written request required and not enrolling elsewhere.
Loyola University Chicago	Yes	Loyola considers first-year deferral requests for up to one year for gap year, service, or medical reasons; written request required.
Miami University (Ohio)	Yes	Miami University allows one-year deferral for gap year, military, or medical reasons for first-year admits; written request required.
Middle Tennessee State University	Yes	MTSU permits first-year students to defer for up to one year for gap year, military, or medical reasons; written request required.
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill	Yes	Brown routinely grants 1-year deferrals to admitted students who request in writing by May 15 and agree not to enroll elsewhere during the gap year.

Need Help? Our Deferment Services:

1-on-1 Letter Review ($99) – Expert feedback within 24 hours
Gap Year Program Matching ($149) – Find programs that impress admissions
College Re-entry Strategy ($199) – Plan your successful return

Others give you information. We get you results.

Common Deferment Requirements and Conditions

Gap year college deferral student volunteering in a school abroad, meeting local students. — A gap year college deferral can lead to meaningful cross-cultural experiences in local schools and communities.

To successfully defer college admission, you typically need to:

Pay your enrollment deposit to secure your place.
Submit a written deferral request or form.
Outline how your gap year will support personal or academic growth.
Re-apply for financial aid (FAFSA) the following year. Read More: How to Afford a Gap Year
Check how deferment affects your scholarships.
Avoid being enrolled in another college program (unless permitted).

Approval and exact policies vary institution to institution. Schools often approve deferral for gap year programs, service learning, language immersion, or independent travel.

Note: With types of gap year programs ranging from language immersion to service learning or adventure travel, it’s important to find the best gap year programs suited for your taste.

Medical reasons, military service, or faith-based missions. Note: Military service deferments may extend up to 4 semesters, and missions may qualify for up to 5 semesters, depending on the specific school’s policies.

Take Our Gap Year Readiness Quiz

Deferment Mistakes That Get You Rejected

Don’t let these common errors ruin your chances:

Timing Mistakes:

Submitting after deadline (shows poor planning)
Not paying enrollment deposit first
Waiting until summer to submit request

Content Mistakes:

Vague plans (“I want to travel and find myself”)
No connection between gap year and academic goals
Mentioning other colleges you’re considering
Asking to defer multiple years initially

Planning Mistakes:

Not researching school-specific requirements
Forgetting to mention you won’t enroll elsewhere
No backup plan for when gap year might fall through
Not addressing scholarship/financial aid impact

Deferment Letter Templates You Can Copy-Paste

Writing the perfect letter doesn’t have to be a challenge. Follow this structure and tips to create the college deferment letter that will help you request get accepted.

Letter Success Formula:

Opening (2 sentences) → Gap Year Plan (3-4 sentences) → Connection to College Goals (2 sentences) → Logistics (2 sentences) → Closing (1 sentence)

High-Success Template Features:

– Specific program names and dates

– Clear learning objectives

– Mention of skills that will benefit college experience

– Acknowledgment of deferment policy compliance

Complete College Deferment Letter Example:

—

Subject: Deferral Request – [Your Full Name], Fall 2025

Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name or “Admissions Committee”],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally request a one-year deferral of my admission to [College/University Name], where I have been accepted for the [Fall/Spring] [Year] semester.

After considerable reflection, I have decided to take a structured gap year to pursue [brief description of your plan. Examples: volunteer work, service learning, language immersion, or personal development experiences]. I believe this experience will allow me to grow both personally and academically, ultimately helping me contribute more meaningfully to the [College/University Name] community upon my return.

I understand that deferment policies vary, and I am happy to provide any necessary documentation or updates regarding my plans. I will not enroll in another degree-granting institution during this time and will fulfill any required enrollment steps to confirm my spot for the following academic year.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I am very excited to begin my journey at [College/University Name] and look forward to joining the incoming class of [Year].

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Student ID (when applicable)]

—

For the best chances of approval make sure to tailor your letter with your specific gap year type and goals. Colleges and universities want to know why and for what purpose you will defer your entrance.

Copy-Paste Sentence Starters for Different Gap Year Types:

Service/Volunteering:

“I have been accepted into [Program Name] where I will spend [timeframe] working on [specific project] in [location]. This experience will develop my [specific skills] and deepen my understanding of [relevant field], directly supporting my intended major in [field].”

Travel/Cultural Immersion:

“I plan to spend [timeframe] in [location] participating in [specific program/activity]. This cultural immersion will enhance my language skills and global perspective, preparing me to contribute meaningfully to [College Name]’s diverse community.”

Work Experience:

“I have secured a position with [Company/Organization] where I will gain hands-on experience in [field]. This professional experience will provide practical context for my academic studies in [major] and help me approach coursework with real-world perspective.”

Download: Complete Letter Template Library (5 different versions for different gap year types)

What to Do During Your Deferred Year

Group of gap year students taking a fun selfie during their travels. — Capturing the fun: spontaneous moments with gap year friends abroad.

Schools won’t let you defer your enrollment to take a year off just because you want a year off. Schools want to see you grow and develop not just as a person, but as one of their future students.

Ideas for a meaningful year:

Join a structured gap year program or volunteer abroad
Take language immersion or skill-building courses (non-credit)
Develop your learning process by teaching English at an elementary school
Work part-time to save for college and learn financial responsibility
Pursue independent research, art, or creative projects
Travel with a purpose: document your experiences or develop a project

The most valuable lesson that I learned on my gap year is to trust myself and do the things that make me happy. I think I spent too much time during high school trying to do what I thought others wanted that I forgot what I wanted. My gap semester changed who I am and who I want to be in the future. If I could give any advice to a student thinking about a gap year, it would be to do it. Don’t worry about the ‘traditional path’ because there is no such thing-there is only the right path for you.

Kelsey Smith
Rustic Pathways Gap Year Alumna

The reason for taking a gap year is different for every student. But the thing that is guaranteed for all students who take gap years is that they’ll come back with more confidence and preparation for their return to college.

This time can sharpen your decision-making, develop your emotional intelligence, and provide clarity before stepping into campus life.

Did you know? Global search interest for ‘gap year’ reached its highest levels in 2025, with the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and South Africa leading in search volume (Google Trends).

Check Our Gap Year Program Comparison Grid

2025-2026 Deferment Timeline Guidelines

Gap year student participating in a cultural immersion activity with local community members. — Cultural immersion is a key part of many gap year programs, offering deep connections with local traditions.

When to Submit by School Type:

Ivy League Schools (Submit Early):

Typically 4-8 weeks after acceptance
Often align with enrollment deposit deadlines
Examples: Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Brown
Check your specific acceptance letter for exact dates

Public Universities (More Flexible):

Usually 30-60 days after acceptance
Some allow submissions up to summer
Examples: UC system, University of Michigan, UT Austin
Generally more accommodating with timing

Private Universities (Varies Widely):

Range from 2-12 weeks after acceptance
Policies vary significantly by school
Examples: NYU, Northwestern, Duke
Contact admissions directly for confirmation

Community Colleges (Most Flexible):

Often rolling deadlines
Some allow deferment up to start of semester
Most likely to be approved

Critical: Always check your specific acceptance letter and school’s admissions portal for exact deadlines. Dates change yearly and vary by admission term.

Your Personal Timeline:

Month Before Deadline: Finalize gap year plans
3 Weeks Before: Write and review letter
2 Weeks Before: Submit request
1 Week Before: Follow up when no confirmation
Day of Deadline: Backup submission method ready

Late Submission Options:

In the case that you missed the deadline:

Call admissions immediately
Explain extenuating circumstances
Offer to provide additional documentation
Have backup plan ready (take the spot, gap year later)

Final Thoughts: A Gap Year Doesn’t Delay Success, It Strengthens It

Two gap year students laughing and enjoying a desert adventure. — Gap year adventures bring unforgettable moments and new friendships.

Colleges recognize that gap years help students return more motivated and prepared. 83% of surveyed Gap Year Alumni enrolled or resumed higher education immediately after their gap year, while 13% went straight into the workforce (Gap Year Association 11).

When you’re feeling uncertain about your next step after high school, deferring college admission can be a smart choice for improving your education, mental health, and career clarity.

Tracking your progress during the gap year can provide structure and motivation to achieve your goals.

Money comes back, time does not. You’re only gonna be this young, this fit, our bodies capable of doing this, right now. Not when we’re 60 or 70 and retired. Take a gap year.

@travelingwithtals
TikTok

Explore our Gap Year Planning Hub or take the “Is a Gap Year Right for Me?” quiz to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions (Complete Guide) - Updated May 2025

How do I defer college for a year?

Submit a written deferment request to your college’s admissions office by their deadline. Include your specific gap year plans, pay the enrollment fee, and provide any required documentation.

How long does deferment approval take?

Most schools respond within 2-4 weeks. Ivy League schools often take longer (4-6 weeks) due to higher volume. Always follow up when you don’t hear back within their stated timeframe.

Can I defer admission twice?

Very rare. Most schools allow only one deferment. Harvard and Princeton explicitly state one-year maximum. Plan your gap year carefully the first time.

What happens to my scholarship if I defer?

Merit scholarships usually transfer to your deferred year. Need-based aid requires reapplying via FAFSA. Always confirm with financial aid office before deferring.

Do I need to reapply for financial aid?

Yes, submit new FAFSA for your actual enrollment year. Some schools require early submission to guarantee aid availability.

Will I lose my freshman status?

Not when you follow deferment rules. Enrolling in degree-granting programs elsewhere can change your status to transfer student.

Can I defer Ivy League admissions for a gap year?

Yes. Harvard, Princeton, Yale, and Brown all have formal deferment policies. They often encourage structured gap years and have high approval rates for well-planned requests.

What if my gap year plans fall through?

Have backup plans ready. Schools appreciate students who can adapt. Contact admissions immediately if major changes occur.

Can I visit campus during my gap year?

Yes, most schools encourage deferred students to stay connected. Attend virtual events, join social media groups, and consider campus visits.

What if I change my mind about the school during my gap year?

You’re still bound to your commitment, but can usually decline closer to enrollment. Check your school’s specific policy on backing out of deferment.

How do I submit my deferment request?

Most schools have online portals for deferment requests. Some require email or postal mail. Check your admissions portal for specific instructions.

What documentation do I need for a college deferment?

Typically, for a college deferment, you need a deferment letter, gap year plan details, enrollment deposit receipt, and any program acceptance letters.

Ready to Defer? Your Next Steps:

Immediate Actions (This Week):

Look up your school’s deferment policy [Use our lookup tool]
Download our letter templates [Free download]
Calculate your gap year costs [Use our budget checklist]

Planning Phase (Next 2 Weeks):

Research specific gap year programs
Draft your deferment letter
Get letter reviewed by expert [Book consultation]

Submission Phase (Week 3-4):

Submit request before deadline
Pay enrollment deposit
Confirm receipt with admissions office

Sources and Further Reading

DiDonna, DJ. “The Case for Taking a Gap Year Before College.” Harvard Business Review, 8 Nov. 2024.
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Gap Year Association. Gap Year Alumni 2020 National Survey Report. Gap Year Association, 2021, p. 11.

Google Trends. “gap year.” trends.google.com. Accessed 21 May 2025.

@travelingwithtals. “Want to travel but dont know how to start? I gotchu!!! Im about to leave for south america for 2 months and will be showing you guys all my tips and tricks to travel cheaply and make friends!! Come along on my journey <3” TikTok, 12 Jul. 2024.
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