After being admitted and putting down a seat deposit, occasionally an applicant may have a situation that prevents them from starting law school in the fall. Sometimes these applicants are able to apply for, and receive, a deferral allowing them to begin school the next year.
Law schools’ policies vary greatly on how and when they grant deferrals. Typically, deferrals are granted only on a very limited and case-by-case basis when an applicant has encountered extraordinary circumstances preventing them from starting school. Examples include: military service, illness, family or personal emergency, and unforeseen professional opportunity. Some schools allow deferrals solely in such circumstances. Students should not apply to a law school with the intent of deferring acceptance, unless the law school has a program for such applicants (see Law School Admissions Programs with Built-in Gap Time). Most law schools will not often grant deferrals outside of extraordinary circumstances.
Still on the waitlist? There is a small chance that you may be granted deferred acceptance off the waitlist at some schools. For example, the University of Michigan sometimes will grant one-year deferrals to a very limited number of waitlisted candidates who have an exciting new professional opportunity lined up for the next year. Keep an eye out for communications to the waitlist with instructions about if and when you can approach the admissions office with such a proposal. As with everything in admissions, it is important to read the school’s website, keep checking your email, and follow all instructions.
If you have a question about deferrals, schedule an appointment with the Center for Pre-Law Advising.