Congratulations on getting accepted to medical school! This is a huge accomplishment, and you should be incredibly proud. But maybe, amidst the excitement, a little voice is whispering that you’d like to hit pause on starting this fall. That’s okay! Deferring your acceptance can be a strategic move for the right reasons.
In this post, I will guide you through the process of requesting a deferral from medical school and share my personal experience along the way. I’ve also included the actual letter I wrote to my school that granted me my deferral!
Considering Both Paths
I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in 2019 and decided to take two gap years doing research. However, in the middle of this experience, I felt drawn to education and started teaching science at a local high school. At the same time, I was applying to medical school. When I received my acceptance to the school I wanted to go to in 2021, I had to make a choice of whether I wanted to continue on my timeline or continue my journey in education.
Ultimately, I found that by continuing for another year in my teaching program I would be able to earn my Masters of Education degree. I felt that this was a strong reason to postpone for one year and so I decided to take three gap years in total.
When considering if deferring is right for you, be clear on why you want to defer. Strong reasons include:
- Completing a current degree program (especially if it strengthens your application)
- Participating in a prestigious research project
- Gaining clinical experience through volunteer work or programs
If you feel that you are deferring for a more personal reason or feeling “wishy-washy” about medical school I would take some time to really self-reflect before trying to defer. Be mindful that these reasons might not be well-received!
Deferring isn’t the most common path, and I braced myself for mixed reactions. Some were supportive, others questioned my commitment. Specifically, my dad was already disappointed in me for taking several gap years and when he heard that I was deferring my acceptance I could tell he was not totally pleased with my decision. But ultimately, this decision felt right for me.
Asking My School
Every medical school has its own policy on deferrals. Some may freely grant them, while others have stricter guidelines. Start by thoroughly reviewing your acceptance packet (if you can even find the policy) and the school’s website for any official information on deferrals.
Personally, my school did not have great information on the web about their processes so I was forced to do some guesswork. Luckily, I was able to reach out to my school’s admissions counselor and ask for more information about the process.
Deferring medical school can be a thoughtful decision that enhances your preparation. By being proactive, professional, and presenting a compelling reason, you can increase your chances of a successful deferral.
Writing the Letter
If you have decided that deferring your acceptance to medical school is the best choice for you, write a formal letter to submit to your admissions team and dean. Here are some tips on your letter as well as the actual letter I wrote for my deferral.
- Timeliness is Key: Don’t wait! Contact the admissions office as soon as possible and use their guidance as you work through the process.
- Be Professional: Write a formal letter or email requesting a one-year deferral. Briefly explain your reasons and how this experience will benefit your future medical career and why it’s the best decision for you.
- Highlight the Positive: Frame your request as a way to become a stronger, more well-rounded medical student.
- Show Gratitude: Express your sincere appreciation for the acceptance and reiterate your enthusiasm for attending the school.
Here is the letter that I wrote my school (with my personal info removed, of course)! I submitted this in May of 2021 and I started medical school in August of 2022.
After submitting my letter, I received approval of my request 3 days later with instructions on what to do next. My school requested that I re-apply through AMCAS as a Deferred Applicant. I did not have to pay any fees or resubmit any letters of recommendation or anything like that. Then, the next year, I selected “Commit to Enroll” and the rest is history!
Three years later…
… I don’t regret a thing! In fact, I think deferring my application was the best move I could have made. In total, I took three gap years: the first gap year to perform clinical research and gain more clinical experience, and the second two gap years to complete my Master’s degree and teach at a high school, as outlined in the letter.
Once I started medical school, I felt no different from anyone else in the class. Most people in my class took one or more gap years. No one ever even knew that I deferred my application (except the people I told)! I do not feel it negatively impacted me in any way. With careful planning and open communication, you might just discover that a well-timed pause can propel you even further on your medical journey.
Remember that deferring is not guaranteed. Be prepared for any response, and have a backup plan in case your request is denied.
Good luck on your medical school journey!