Deferred, Rejected, or Accepted: What Early College Results Mean for Your Next Steps

Early application results can feel like a rollercoaster: the thrill of acceptance, the gut-punch of rejection, or the limbo of deferral. No matter where you land, I’m here to remind you—this is just one part of your journey. Let’s break it down and figure out your next steps with love, logic, and a little sass.

Accepted: You’re In! Now What?

Cue the confetti! Getting accepted early is huge, and you’ve earned every bit of this moment. But before you dive headfirst into celebratory ice cream, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Seal the Deal: If it’s ED, your spot is locked, so submit that deposit and politely bow out of other applications. EA? Celebrate while keeping your options open—you’ve got time.
• Don’t Drop the Ball: Your senior grades still matter. Keep showing up and doing your thing—don’t let that acceptance slip through your fingers.
• Spread the Love: Thank your teachers, counselors, and cheerleaders who helped get you here. A handwritten note goes a long way.

This is your moment, but don’t stop dreaming. Dive into everything your school offers—housing, clubs, quirky traditions. Get excited about what’s ahead.

Rejected: It’s Not a Reflection of You

Rejection feels personal, but hear me out—it’s not about you being “not enough.” Sometimes it’s about the numbers, the fit, or even just luck. Here’s how to bounce back like the resilient star you are:

• Don’t Spiral: One rejection doesn’t define your worth. Period. Take a breath, feel your feelings, and know that this is just a redirection, not a dead end.
• Refocus: Use this as fuel to perfect your regular decision apps. Tweak those essays, double-check your supplements, and keep aiming high.
• Find Your Fit: Remember, the right school will see your magic. Sometimes the place you’re meant to be isn’t the one you thought it was.

Lean on your people. Vent to your best friend, eat the cookie dough, and know you’re gonna crush this next round.

Deferred: The “Not Yet” Zone

Deferrals are tricky. They’re not a rejection, but they’re not a yes either. Think of them as the school saying, “We like you, but we’re not ready to commit.” Here’s how to handle it:

• Send a Thoughtful Update: Share anything new—awards, projects, or leadership roles—that strengthens your case. Keep it concise and confident.
• Stay Engaged… Lightly: A well-timed update is great, but bombarding admissions with emails isn’t. Play it cool.
• Prepare for RD Like a Pro: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Double down on your other apps and keep your momentum strong.

Deferral doesn’t mean you’re not amazing. Sometimes, it’s just about timing, space, or other factors you can’t control. Keep shining and show them what they’re missing.

Remember: Your Path Is Unique

Whether you’re celebrating, regrouping, or waiting, your college journey isn’t defined by one decision. The right school will recognize your spark, and no matter where you land, you’re going to thrive. Take a deep breath, trust the process, and know that you’ve got this—because you do. And we've got you.