Christine S.’ College Deferral Experience

I’m the youngest of five kids, so when it came time to choose a school after countless college tours with my siblings, I knew exactly what I was looking for; however, taking a gap year was always in the back of my mind.

I was a junior in high school when COVID brought us into a lockdown and felt as if my life had taken a pause—like I lost two years of making connections and memories. I wanted to do something exciting, and after finding EF, I knew taking a gap year would be the right move for me. 

I still applied to my dream school, got accepted, and then contacted my school to learn about their deferral process. They informed me that they would hold my acceptance and the merit money I received over to the next year—I really only had to send an official email saying I would like to defer my admission, and that was it! It was so easy. 

My family was so helpful and supportive throughout the whole process; honestly, officially making the decision to take a gap year was the most difficult part! I’m very lucky to go to a school that I love, but if after your gap year you find that the school you chose isn’t for you, no worries: transferring is normal and okay. Do what’s best for you. 

The advice I have for any students thinking about deferring their college decision to take a gap year is to just do it! You absolutely will not regret your decision and when it comes time for college, you will be ready, more mature, and have insane life experiences behind you that will put you miles ahead of your classmates.  

My gap year prepared me to reach my fullest potential in college; by the time I got to school, I was ready to work and so thankful for the year time I had prior. If I didn’t take my gap year, I know I would have been thinking “What if?”, and would still feel the burnout I felt in high school. 

Considering deferring college admission?  

Completing the college deferral process is an integral part of many students’ gap journey, giving you the peace of mind to be fully present on your EF Gap program while feeling secure in knowing where you’re headed after your international adventure! Visit our comprehensive College Deferral Guide for more information. 

Have you heard about our deferral guarantee?

Our deferral guarantee allows you to book without worry—meaning that you can book and start planning your gap year ahead of time, knowing that we will support your college’s decision either way. If your deferral request is rejected, you will have the option to cancel your gap year and receive a refund. Be sure to get in touch with your Gap Year Consultant to discuss the deferral guarantee in more depth.

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