A change of plans in your academic journey is common and understandable, particularly for international students who have unique circumstances to consider. One such change is the decision to defer admission, which essentially means asking the university to hold your admission for a specific period, typically for one semester or an academic year. This situation could occur to international students who are currently applying to US or are already in US but need a semester break due to personal or financial issue.

This blog will guide you through the process of writing an email to defer your admission to a US university. We'll break down the process into clear, concise steps and provide detailed explanations with examples. Finally, we will offer three sample email templates to serve as a starting point for crafting your personal deferral request.

Step 1: Understand the University’s Deferral Policy

Before writing your email, ensure you're well-versed with the university's deferral policy. Not all universities have the same policies, and some may not even offer the option to defer. You can usually find this information on the university's admissions page or student handbook. Or, you can contact the university's international student office (ISO) to get details regarding the deferral request. This understanding will not only influence your email content but also the timing of your request.

Example: If your chosen university's policy requires deferral requests to be submitted no less than one month before the start of the semester, you need to take this into account when planning and drafting your email.

Step 2: Subject Line

The subject line of your email should be clear and concise, immediately indicating its purpose. Using a subject line such as "Request for Admission Deferral" is suggested. Remember, this is the first part of the email the admission officer will see, and a clear subject line helps ensure your email will be opened and read.

Example: Subject: "Request to Defer Fall 2023 Admission – [Your Full Name]"

Step 3: Salutation

Start your email with an appropriate salutation. If you know the name of the admissions officer handling your case, use their name; otherwise, a simple "Dear Admissions Committee" will suffice.

Example: "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Admissions Committee,"

Step 4: Introduction and Reason for Deferral

Begin the body of your email by introducing yourself and stating your reason for deferring. Be straightforward and sincere. Whether it's a health issue, financial constraints, or visa delays, clearly state your circumstances.

Example: "My name is [Your Full Name], and I was accepted into the [Your Course] for the Fall 2023 semester. Due to unforeseen personal circumstances, I am writing to request a deferral of my admission..."

Step 5: Express Gratitude and Commitment

Thank the admissions committee for the opportunity, express your keen interest in joining the university, and assure them of your intention to enroll after the deferral period. This maintains your relationship with the university and signals your commitment.

Example: "I am extremely grateful for the acceptance and am eager to join the university. I remain deeply committed to my education and look forward to contributing to the university community in the future."

Step 6: Conclude and Provide Contact Information

Conclude your email professionally and provide your contact information for any further discussion or clarification. A line such as "I am available for any further information you may need" encourages open communication.

Example: "Thank you for considering my request. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Email] or [Your Phone Number] if you need additional information. I look forward to your positive response."

Step 7: Closing and Signature

End your email with a formal closing such as "Best regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your full name and your student ID (if applicable).

Example: "Best regards, [Your Full Name], [Your Student ID]"

Now that we have discussed the process of writing a deferral request email, let's move on to the sample email templates.

Sample Email Template 1: Health issue

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to request that my admission to the [Program] at [University] be deferred for one semester due to a family health issue that has required a significant amount of my time and energy.

As you may know, my [family member] has been struggling with [health issue] and has required constant care and support. While I have been able to maintain good academic standing, the added stress and time commitment has made it difficult for me to fully focus on my studies and extracurricular activities.

I am deeply committed to pursuing my education at [University] and believe that taking some time to focus on my family's well-being will ultimately allow me to be a more successful and engaged student in the long run. I understand that deferring my admission may have an impact on my academic and career plans, and I am willing to accept any consequences that may come as a result.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to beginning my studies at [University] in [deferral semester] and am grateful for your understanding during this difficult time.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Sample Email Template 2: Financial Concerns

Subject: Request for Admission Deferral - [Your Full Name]

Dear Mr/Mrs. X,

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Full Name] and I have been accepted into the [Your Course] for the Fall 2023 semester.

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen financial constraints in my family, I am writing to formally request the deferral of my admission to the Spring 2024 semester. This delay will provide us with the necessary time to arrange for the funding required to support my education at [University Name].

I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity and assure you that I remain committed to pursuing my studies at your esteemed university. I am confident that with this short deferral, I will be able to arrange the necessary resources and join the university fully prepared.

I appreciate your understanding and consideration in this matter. Please feel free to reach out at [Your Email] or [Your Phone Number] should you require any further information.

Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Student ID]

Sample Email Template 3: Visa Delays

Subject: Request to Defer Fall 2023 Admission - [Your Full Name]

Dear Admissions Committee,

I hope you are doing well. I am [Your Full Name], an international student from [Your Country], and I have been accepted into the [Your Course] for the Fall 2023 semester.

Regrettably, I am experiencing delays in the visa application process and, as a result, I am unable to arrive in time for the start of the semester. Consequently, I respectfully request to defer my admission to the Spring 2024 semester.

I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to study at [University Name] and am eagerly looking forward to contributing to the diverse and vibrant university community. I remain dedicated to my studies and am hopeful that my visa situation will be resolved in the coming months.

Thank you for your understanding and for considering my request. For any additional information, I am available at [Your Email] or [Your Phone Number].

Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Student ID]

Conclusion:

Deferring your admission to a US university may seem like a challenging task, especially when you're an international student. However, it's important to remember that universities understand the myriad of challenges students can face, and they are typically willing to accommodate your requests if made professionally and on time. Please remember that the sample templates should be tailored to your unique situation.

Whether you are facing health issues, financial constraints, or delays in your visa process, this blog can guide you in your quest for deferral. Don't let unexpected challenges deter you from your academic journey. Your university is a partner in this process, ready to help you navigate through these challenges. So, approach the situation with confidence, and don't hesitate to reach out for help when needed. We wish you the best in your academic pursuits.

These related posts below might catch your interest:

Crafting the Perfect Application Fee Waiver Request Email with FREE Samples

US College Transfer Guide for International Students

The Dos and Don'ts of US Student Visa Applications

10 Must-Read Statement of Purpose Articles for International Students