When colleges delay their decision, students often feel confused about what to do next. This toolkit provides clear, expert guidance to help you respond strategically and confidently after receiving a deferral or postponement.
 
Created by Dr. Leah Beasley and the Beasley College Consulting team, this resource walks you through the next steps—from understanding what a deferral means to writing a thoughtful and effective Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI).
 
You’ll learn how to communicate with admissions offices professionally, what updates may strengthen your application, and when it is appropriate to send additional information after applying.
 
These strategies reflect the same approach used by our consulting team, which includes former admissions officers and college counseling experts with decades of experience guiding students through selective college admissions.
 
Perfect For
Seniors who have been deferred or postponed and want clear guidance on what to do next
Students who want help writing a strong Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)
Families who want to understand what updates to send—and when
Students who want to respond professionally and strengthen their application during the next round of review
 
Includes
Deferred…Now What? — Understanding what a deferral means and how colleges review deferred applicants
LOCI Email Template — A clear framework for writing a professional Letter of Continued Interest
U of Michigan-Specific Expression of Continued Interest Sample — A real example showing how to structure a strong response for Michigan’s deferred applicant update
(Bonus) Updating Your College Applications — Guidance on meaningful updates you may share with admissions offices
 
A deferral does not mean the process is over.
 
With the right strategy, communication, and updates, you can reinforce your interest and strengthen your candidacy during the next round of review.