How to Write a Polite Deferral Email: Tips and Examples

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and stressed out by the number of emails flooding your inbox? Do you struggle to keep up with the constant demands of your work and personal life? Well, what if I told you that there’s a simple solution that can help you manage your email more effectively and alleviate some of that stress?

The solution is to write deferral emails. Yes, that’s right. Rather than trying to respond to every email right away, you can buy yourself some time and prioritize your tasks by deferring certain emails to a later date.

Writing a deferral email can be tricky, but it’s an invaluable skill that can save you time and energy in the long run. By letting your sender know that you need more time to respond, you can set expectations and avoid any misunderstandings. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to prioritize other urgent tasks and prevents you from becoming too overwhelmed.

If you’re not sure how to write a deferral email, don’t worry – you’re not alone. In this article, you’ll discover some helpful tips and tricks on how to write a professional and effective deferral email. Plus, you’ll find examples that you can use and edit as needed to fit your specific situation.

So, if you’re ready to take control of your inbox and reduce your stress levels, let’s dive into the world of deferral emails.

The Best Structure for Writing a Deferral Email

If you’ve received a deferral from a school, it can feel discouraging and overwhelming. However, it’s important to remember that a deferral is not a rejection and there are still ways to improve your application. Writing a deferral email can be a great opportunity to show your continued interest in the school while highlighting any new achievements or developments since submitting your application. Here are some tips on the best structure for writing a deferral email.

1. Start with a Gracious Opening
Begin your email with a polite and gracious opening. Thank the admissions committee for considering your application and express your appreciation for their time. Use this opportunity to remind them of your genuine interest in the school and your desire to attend.

Example:
Dear Admissions Committee,

Thank you for your email and for considering my application. I appreciate the time you have taken to review my materials. I remain very interested in XYZ University and would be thrilled to attend if admitted.

2. Update the Committee on Any New Achievements
Use this section to detail any new achievements or developments since you submitted your application. This could include updated grades, new awards, leadership roles, or volunteer work. Provide specific details and make sure to tie them into why you believe they make you a stronger candidate for admission.

Example:
Since submitting my application, I am proud to have improved my grades in AP Calculus and AP Biology. Additionally, I was recently elected as the captain of my high school’s varsity volleyball team and have begun volunteering at the local homeless shelter. I believe these experiences have shaped me into a more well-rounded individual and a stronger candidate for admission.

3. Reiterate Your Continued Interest in the School
Make sure to reiterate your continued interest in attending the school. Provide specific reasons why you believe the school is the right fit for you and how you can contribute to the campus community. This section should also include any specific questions you have about the admissions process or the school itself.

Example:
I remain deeply passionate about attending XYZ University and I believe the school’s rigorous academics and diverse student body would provide me with the ideal learning environment. I am particularly interested in the school’s research opportunities, and I would be honored to have the chance to work with the esteemed faculty in the biology department. If there are any additional steps I can take to strengthen my application, I would be grateful for the chance to do so.

4. Conclude with a Thank You
End your email on a positive note by thanking the admissions committee for their time and consideration. This is also a great opportunity to reiterate your excitement and enthusiasm for the school.

Example:
Thank you again for the time and effort you have put into considering my application. I hope to have the opportunity to attend XYZ University and contribute to its vibrant campus community. Please let me know if there are any additional materials or information you require.

Wrapping it up, following the structure and guidelines mentioned above, you can craft an engaging and impressive deferral email. Remember, a deferral is not the end of the road, and you still have a chance to tip the balance your way with a well-crafted email.

7 Deferral Email Samples for Different Reason

Sample 1: Deferral Request for Medical Reasons

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to request a deferral of my admission for the upcoming academic year due to medical reasons. Unfortunately, I have been diagnosed with a health condition that requires ongoing treatment and may impact my ability to fully participate in the program.

While I am eager to begin my studies, I do not want to compromise my health or performance. Therefore, I kindly ask to defer my enrollment for a year until I am in better health. I have already taken necessary steps to arrange my medical treatment so that I can be ready for the program next year.

Thank you for your understanding and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Sample 2: Deferral Request for Financial Reasons

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to request a deferral of my admission for financial reasons. While I am thrilled to have been admitted to [University Name], I have encountered unexpected financial challenges that will make it difficult to afford the academic expenses associated with the program.

I am currently working hard to secure additional funding for my education, but it is unclear whether I will be successful in time to begin the program as planned. Therefore, I kindly ask to defer my enrollment for a year until I can be sure that I will be able to meet the financial obligations of the program.

Thank you for your understanding and assistance.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Sample 3: Deferral Request for Personal Reasons

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to request a deferral of my admission for personal reasons. While I am excited to join [University Name], unforeseen circumstances have arisen that require me to remain in my current location for the time being.

Specifically, I have been asked to assist with caring for a family member who is facing difficulties at present. It is important to me that I fulfill this responsibility before embarking on my academic journey, and therefore I kindly ask to defer my enrollment for a year until my personal circumstances improve.

Thank you for your attention and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Sample 4: Deferral Request for Professional Reasons

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to request a deferral of my admission for professional reasons. I have been presented with an extraordinary career opportunity that requires my immediate attention, and I do not want to jeopardize my chances for success by dividing my attention between work and academic studies.

I understand the importance of completing my degree program, and I look forward to beginning my studies in the future. In the meantime, I kindly ask to defer my enrollment for a year until my professional life stabilizes.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Sample 5: Deferral Request for Travel Reasons

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to request a deferral of my admission for travel reasons. While I am fully committed to beginning my studies at [University Name], I have recently been offered an incredible travel opportunity that I cannot pass up.

Specifically, I have been invited to participate in a cultural exchange program in [Destination], which will allow me to gain valuable insights and experiences that will complement my academic studies. Although this opportunity will delay my admission, I am confident that it will provide me with unique experiences and perspectives that will benefit me in the long run.

Thank you for your understanding and assistance.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Sample 6: Deferral Request for Military Service

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to request a deferral of my admission for military service reasons. After careful consideration, I have decided to enlist in the [Branch] to serve my country, which means that I will not be able to begin my studies as planned.

I hope to return to [University Name] after my service is completed and continue my academic journey. Therefore, I kindly ask to defer my enrollment for a year until my military service is completed.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Sample 7: Deferral Request for Visa Issues

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to request a deferral of my admission for visa issues. Although I was thrilled to be admitted to [University Name], I have encountered unforeseeable visa problems that require prompt attention.

Specifically, the visa application process has been delayed, and it is unlikely that I will be able to begin my studies as planned. I remain committed to pursuing my education at [University Name], however, and therefore kindly ask to defer my enrollment for a year until my visa issues are resolved.

Thank you for your attention and assistance.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Tips for Writing an Effective Deferral Email

So you’ve applied for a job or a program, and you’ve received an email stating that your application has been deferred. A deferral email can be discouraging, but it’s not the end of the road. With the right approach, you can turn a deferral into an opportunity to strengthen your candidacy. Here are some tips for writing an effective deferral email:

– Acknowledge the deferral: It’s important to acknowledge the deferral in your email. This shows that you’re aware of the decision and that you’re taking it seriously. Thank the recipient for their time and consideration, and express your continued interest in the opportunity.

– Ask for feedback: In your deferral email, ask the recipient if they can provide any feedback on your application. This shows that you’re open to constructive criticism and eager to improve. If the recipient can provide feedback, be sure to thank them for their insights.

– Reiterate your qualifications: Take this opportunity to reiterate your qualifications for the position or program. Highlight any achievements or experiences that you may not have mentioned in your initial application. Make sure to tailor your qualifications to the requirements of the opportunity.

– Offer to provide additional information: If there is any additional information that you think may strengthen your candidacy, offer to provide it. This could be a writing sample, a reference, or any other relevant materials. This shows that you’re willing to go above and beyond to prove your suitability for the opportunity.

– Express patience: Finally, it’s important to be patient in your deferral email. The recipient may need more time to evaluate applications, or they may have a specific timeline for making a decision. Express that you understand and are willing to wait for their final decision.

By following these tips, you can turn a deferral email into an opportunity to reinforce your candidacy. Remember to be professional and polite in your email, and to showcase why you’re the best fit for the position or program.

FAQs: How to Write Deferral Email


What is a deferral email?

A deferral email is a message you send to someone who has requested a meeting or an appointment with you, but you need to postpone it either due to a scheduling conflict or other reasons.

What should be the tone of the email?

Keep the tone of the email polite, professional and respectful. Express your sincere apology for needing to reschedule.

How should I start the email?

Start the email with a salutation addressed to the recipient and express gratitude for their request.

What should I include in the body of the email?

Explain clearly the reason for deferring the meeting and suggest a new date and time that works for you both. You may also include your availability for a phone call or video conference if applicable.

How should I close the email?

Close the email by apologizing once again and thanking the recipient for their understanding. Sign off with a professional signature block that includes your name, title and contact details.

How long should I wait before sending a deferral email?

Send the deferral email as soon as possible. Do not wait until the last minute, as the person may have already made plans around the original meeting date.

Should I offer an explanation for why I am deferring the meeting?

You may offer an explanation, but keep it brief and professional. Avoid going into too much detail or sharing personal information that is not relevant to the request for the meeting.

Signing Off

And that’s it folks! By now, you should be equipped with all the necessary knowledge on how to write a deferral email. So, go ahead and put your newfound skills into practice. Remember, honesty, kindness, and transparency are the key ingredients to crafting a stellar deferral email. Don’t forget to thank the person on the other end for their understanding and consideration. As always, thanks for reading, and I’ll see you again soon!