What to do When Your Early Decision Doesn’t go the Way You Hoped

You put your heart into your application, imagined yourself on campus, maybe even bought a sweatshirt or two… only to get a deferral or denial from your early decision school. The reality is, that hurts. And you’re likely left wondering, “what now?”

The first thing you need to do is take a deep breath. There are incredibly strong applicants every single year who get denied and deferred from their early decision schools. This process is competitive, unpredictable, and influenced by so many things that are out of your control. 

An ED decision is not a reflection of your worth, your talent, or your future. Think of it more as a redirection than an end. 

Now, let’s talk about what to do next, step by step.

Take Time to Feel Your Feelings

Before you jump into planning mode, give yourself permission to feel whatever is coming up… disappointment, frustration, confusion, even relief. All of it is valid.

You don’t need to immediately “figure it out” today. Sometimes the best next step is a pause, a walk, a vent session, or a quiet moment before diving back in. Decisions made out of panic rarely lead you where you actually want to go.

You’re not starting over, you’re starting fresh. And that’s a big difference.

Understand What Your Early Decision Result Really Means

If You Were Deferred…

A deferral means the admissions committee wants more time to review your application in the Regular Decision pool. It’s not a no, it’s a “not yet.”

Here’s what to do next:

• Check if the school allows (and values) updates.
• Consider sending a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI).
• Share any significant new achievements, grades, or awards.
• Keep your regular decision applications strong and on track.
• A deferral is not a guarantee, but it is another chance, and that’s worth staying engaged.

If You Were Denied…

A denial in Early Decision is final, and the school won’t reconsider the decision later. It’s tough, but it also frees you to fully turn your attention toward new possibilities.

This is the moment to shift from “Why didn’t they choose me?” to “Where will I thrive?”

And trust us, there are many places where you will thrive!

Revisit Your College Priorities

You’ve grown since you made your original list months ago. Your interests may be clearer. Your goals might feel different.

Here are some questions to reconsider:

• What academic programs truly excite me?
• What kind of campus culture am I looking for?
• Do I prefer small or large? Urban or rural?
• What clubs, internships, or support systems do I want access to?

Use this as an opportunity to reset and refresh your priorities. 

Strengthen Your Regular Decision Applications

Make your regular decision applications thoughtful, polished, and intentional. This can not only help you feel better and refocus your mind, but you’ll also gain some great momentum as you work on updating your applications and revisiting your choices. 

A few ways to elevate them:

• Highlight what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown.
• Refine supplemental essays to show genuine interest and fit.
• Make sure everything from transcripts to recommendations are in early and in excellent shape.
• Check for clarity, authenticity, and specificity.

Regular Decision can absolutely lead you to your best-fit college. 

Build (or Rebuild) a Balanced College List

Now is the perfect time to revisit your list with fresh eyes.

A healthy list includes:

• Reach schools
• Target schools
• Likely schools

And don’t underestimate those “likely” schools. Many students fall in love with options they originally saw as “backups” simply because those schools end up offering the exact academics, environment, or opportunities they were craving.

Create a Rebound Plan With Support

This is one of those moments where having a guide can make everything feel lighter.

A consultant can help you:

• Rebuild or refine your college list
• Strategize every piece of your regular decision applications
• Strengthen essays and narratives
• Stay organized with deadlines
• Manage the stress and emotion behind the process

An Early Decision disappointment does not derail your college journey, it reshapes it. Often, it even leads you somewhere far better aligned with who you are and what you want. The right-fit school will be the place where you’re supported, challenged, inspired, and understood, and it’s okay if that’s not your ED choice. 

We understand that this can be a lot to navigate on your own… but luckily, you don’t have to! 

If you’re unsure of your next steps, feeling overwhelmed, or simply want a little extra support during this transition, School First is here to help. We meet families wherever they are in the process and guide you with calm, clarity, and strategy. Book a free consultation today to learn more and talk about what’s next!