‘How to defer uni?’ is currently a popular question among prospective students. It’s a real challenge and taking time to consider your options is perfectly okay. You need to take time to decide what is best for you and it’s understandable that you might be having second thoughts.
We’re here to give you the lowdown on everything you need to take into account when deciding whether to take the UCAS deferred entry route. Remember, there are no right or wrong paths, it ultimately comes down to you.
How to defer uni?
UCAS deferred entry can be done in a number of ways. If you haven’t already applied to university, you might want to choose the deferred entry start date in your UCAS application. You will then be expected to share your reasons as to why you are taking a gap year and deferring your entry. This should outline any plans such as undertaking a year of work experience.
If you have already submitted your UCAS application and want to defer your place, you will need to contact the university directly to request UCAS deferred entry and explain your reasons why. This applies if you’re deferring your university place before and after receiving your exam results.
Your application will go through the same process as students who are applying to start uni in the next academic year so you will need to meet the university entry requirements. It’s not a definite that you will be accepted to defer entry so make sure you take this into consideration. Some courses, like medicine, also don’t allow deferred entry so you would be expected to reapply.
When is the deadline for UCAS deferred entry?
The deadline for deferred university entry is always the year before your start date.
If you’ve already applied to the university then you will need to contact them directly and ensure you make them aware of your plans. They will likely ask you for your reasons for deferring your place. Make sure you are absolutely certain that you want to postpone your place as you won’t be able to change your mind again.
How many years can I defer my place for?
Typically, you’ll be able to defer entry for one year but it’s worth checking with the university directly as this sometimes varies and they will be able to advise on how long you can defer your place for a particular course.
What are the pros and cons of deferring university entry?
If you’re seriously considering deferring your university entry, then you might be wondering what are the pros and cons. Take a look at them to see if they can help you decide whether deferring university is the right choice for you:
Pros
Gives you time to decide – If you’re torn over whether to go to university or not, then taking time out will give you the chance to come to a conclusion. Not going to university isn’t the be-all and end-all. After a year out, you might decide against university.
If this is the case then there are lots of other options available to you. Whether you’re thinking about a degree apprenticeship or interested in getting your first job. Alternatively, you might decide that university is the right route for you and after taking time out you might feel better prepared.
After years of education, it gives you the opportunity to do something new and worthwhile – Studying can be very intense and after years of it, you might decide you want a break away from education. As long as you’re planning on doing something productive then deferred entry could be a good route for you. You might decide you want to find a job to gain key work skills or travel.
Cons
Some universities don’t accept deferred entry – When deciding whether to defer your university entry, it’s a good idea to check directly with your university to see whether they or the course you’re taking accept deferred entry, as some courses don’t, such as medicine.
You’ll delay getting a graduate job or scheme – Deferring university entry for a year means you’ll be entering the graduate market a year later than your peers, which will delay you getting paid and employed.
We suggest you have a long chat with your family, friends, career advisors and reach out to the university you’ve applied to or are thinking of applying to. This will give you a chance to fully explore all of your options before making any rash decisions. But don't forget, the decision it ultimately in your hands.
