How to Improve Your Chances After Being Deferred from Brown University
Brown University has recently announced its lowest acceptance rate for the fourth year in a row, with only 60% of early applicants being rejected and 25% being deferred. While this may be frustrating news for those who were rejected, it's actually good news for those who were deferred. The pool of deferred applicants is smaller, and the admissions team is being pickier about who they defer, selecting only those who have a higher chance of being accepted eventually. If you were deferred, there are some steps you can take to improve your chances of being accepted eventually.
Firstly, consider sending an update letter or letter of continued interest. Brown accepts these letters from deferred students, which provide the admissions team with updates on major accomplishments, awards, or other relevant changes in your life since submitting your application. However, it's important to note that these letters are not necessary, and if you haven't had anything major happen since your application, there's no need to send one. But if Brown is truly your first-choice institution, you should let them know by sending a letter of continued interest.
After sending your update letter or letter of continued interest, it's time to reassess your college list. Since you weren't accepted early, it's important to have a balanced list of realistic targets, safety schools, and reaches for the regular decision cycle. These should all be schools that you'd be happy attending, so there's no reason to apply to a school that you wouldn't say "yes" to if it was your only choice.
As you give your college list a final pass, it's also important to continue working hard in your normal life. Brown will receive your mid-year grade report, so it's crucial that you don't let your grades slip. Try to boost your grades a little to show that you're a stand-out senior who is serious about your next chapter. If your grades are as high as they can go, look to your extracurriculars for ways to ensure you stand out. Adding a leadership position that you can highlight in an update letter is a great way to show that you're not sitting back and waiting for things to come to you.
Lastly, it's important to take care of yourself during this stressful time. Applying to college can be incredibly stressful, and it's important to set aside time for relaxation and fun. Take a break, watch a movie, read a book, or get outside. Taking care of your mental health can have a positive impact on your application process.
In summary, if you were deferred by Brown University, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of being accepted eventually. Consider sending an update letter or letter of continued interest, reassess your college list, continue working hard, and take care of yourself. Remember, being deferred is not the end of the road, and with some hard work and a little bit of luck, you may still end up receiving an acceptance letter.
