How do I defer my university place?

According to UCAS, over 7% of university applicants deferred their 2007 university place until 2008 so they could take a year out. That’s around 30,000 people.

There are a number of reasons that students decide to take a year off before starting a higher education course. You may want to travel, earn some money or simply feel you need a break from studying. If you decide to take a gap year, but want to secure your place at university for next year now, you can defer entry. Deferring entry means applying to university as if you were going this year and being offered a place, but not actually taking that place up until a year later.

If you know before you are applying you just need to tick the box on your UCAS form stating that you wish to defer entry. If you have already submitted your form or been offered a place before you decide to defer, you will need to contact your university or college directly. If they agree they will then let UCAS know that you are choosing to defer.

You don’t have an absolute right to defer and some universities or colleges may not let you. Deferring may not be possible for some courses such as medicine. Make sure you think of good reasons for deferring before you contact them, in case they quiz you on the spot and ask you to outline your plans for the year.

If you are definitely deferring, wait before applying for your student finance until the year you are supposed to start your course.

What are the advantages & disadvantages of deferring & taking a gap year?

As a useful guide, we have weighed up some of the pros and cons of deferring your university place for a gap year.

• You will be able to enjoy your year off safe in the knowledge that you have secured a place at university for your return.
• Deferring is a great option if you have plans for your time off and are sure about the course you want to do afterwards.
• It would be difficult trying to apply for courses and attend interviews while you are off on your gap year.
• A well planned gap year can help you develop independence and confidence which will be beneficial to you at university.
• You could use your gap year to save up some money.

• You may find it hard to get back into studying after a year off.
• Surviving off a student budget could be unappealing if you have become used to earning good money by working during your gap year.
• Most of your friends will be a year ahead of you at university.
• If you aren’t sure what course to do and are planning on using your gap year to make decisions on your future, it may be better to apply to university after you come back.