After being admitted and putting down a seat deposit, applicants may sometimes have second thoughts about starting in the fall. Sometimes these applicants are able to apply for and a 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 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, 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. Most law schools will not grant deferrals outside of extraordinary circumstance.
If you have a question about deferrals, schedule an appointment with the Center for Pre-Law Advising.