Getting into your dream college can feel like the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and planning. However, the journey doesn’t always go as expected, and sometimes, the decision you receive is deferral or rejection. While this can be disappointing, it’s important to remember that this is not the end of the road. In fact, there are actionable steps you can take to stay positive, demonstrate your continued interest, and improve your chances of being admitted either later in the process or at other institutions.
Here’s what to do if you find yourself facing a deferral or rejection from your dream college:
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First, take a deep breath. Feeling upset or frustrated is natural, but staying calm and taking time to process the news is important. A deferral (which means that your application is being moved to the regular decision pool) isn’t a rejection—it's simply a request to demonstrate your continued interest and show that you are a great fit for the university. A rejection, on the other hand, is final, but it doesn’t define your future. If you’ve been deferred, you can remain in the running; however, if you’ve been rejected, it's time to focus on your other applications or consider a gap year.
2. Write a Letter of Continued Interest (For Deferred Students)
If you’ve been deferred, the next step is to send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) to the admissions office. This is your chance to reaffirm your enthusiasm for the school and update them on any new accomplishments or developments since you submitted your application. Admissions officers want to know that you are still genuinely interested and committed to attending their institution if admitted.
Your LOCI should include:
A polite tone: Express your continued interest in the college in a professional and respectful manner.
New achievements: If you’ve made any significant improvements in your grades, accomplishments, or extracurriculars since you submitted your application, be sure to mention them.
Why this school is a good fit: Restate why you are a perfect fit for the college and how it aligns with your academic and career goals.
Reaffirm your interest: Emphasize that this school is your top choice and you are still eager to join their community.
A well-crafted LOCI can show admissions officers you are committed and proactive about your future.
3. Consider Other Schools and Keep Moving Forward
If you’ve been rejected, it’s important to keep perspective. Many students face rejection, which does not reflect their worth or abilities. College admissions can be highly competitive, and schools often have limited spots. Rejection doesn’t mean you won't succeed—it just means that your path may take a different direction.
Here are some strategies if you’re facing rejection:
Explore other options: Look into other schools where you’ve been accepted. There are many excellent colleges that may not have been your first choice but can offer a fulfilling and enriching experience.
Consider a gap year: If you feel strongly about reapplying, you can take a gap year to gain more experience, improve your application, and submit a stronger application next year.
Apply to additional schools: Update your college list and apply to additional schools by January 1. For these college applications, consider highlighting new skills, work experiences, or leadership roles in extracurricular activities to make yourself a stronger candidate.
4. Use This as a Learning Experience
Rejection and deferral are difficult, but they can be valuable learning experiences. Consider revising your common app for future applications. If you’re unsure how to present your accomplishments compellingly, explore Resume All Day’s college essay coaching services.
Whether you’re deferred or rejected from your dream college, it’s important to remember that this is not the end of the journey. A deferral means you still have a chance to show your continued interest, while a rejection simply opens the door to new opportunities and paths for growth. Stay proactive, update your application with new achievements, and consider your next steps: reapplying, exploring other schools, or taking a gap year.
If you want to strengthen your application for next year or need help crafting your personal statement, Resume All Day offers college essay coaching services to help you put your best foot forward. With several years of experience helping students navigate the college admissions process, I can help you refine your essays, highlight your strengths, and create a compelling application that stands out. Learn more about my college essay coaching services and get started today!
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