You may be considering deferring university because you don't feel ready to go yet. Whatuni explores how to defer uni entry and what taking a year out of uni might look like.
Updated: 30 Sept 2026
Deferred entry is when a student applies for a course but takes a year out before beginning that course. For example, you could apply in November 2026 to begin in September 2028 instead of September 2027. Usually, students who defer their uni place take a gap year to work or travel.
NEXT: Learn more about gap years.
Deferred entry can be done in a couple of different ways.
Apply as a deferred student
Firstly, despite any recent changes to university entry, you can still make an application as a deferred student. What this will mean is that you can apply as though you're doing so for 2027 entry and will have to meet the same conditions and entry requirements as those beginning in September 2027. But, you will be given the option to apply as a deferred student and if accepted, will begin in 2028.
Bear in mind that when applying, you'll need to include your reason for deferral within your personal statement.
Wait a year
Your other option? Simply wait to apply when applications open for the 2028/29 academic year. If you are unsure of what to study or no longer want to start uni in 2027, you can spend the time to do further research, get work experience, build your CV and talk to friends already at university.
If you’ve not yet applied and do change your mind, you can still apply now after the UCAS deadline, or you can wait to apply via Clearing.
You will have the same deadlines for the year in which you are applying. For example, if you are applying for 2027 entry, but wish to defer entry until 2028, your deadline for applying as a deferred student will be the same as for non-deferring students. Note that although the equal consideration deadline for 2027/28 applicants will be on 13 January, universities do accept offers after this deadline date but applications are judged on a first-come, first-served basis.
You sure can! If you do decide to defer, but have already sent in your application, contact your chosen university. Let them know of the change. You'll usually be asked to provide a reason.
Yes, but get in touch with the university with whom you hold an offer. Provide your reason for doing so.
Alternatively, if you had intended to defer but changed your mind after getting your results, contact the university with whom you hold a deferred place. They may be able to accommodate you onto the course this year. You also still have the option of applying through Clearing.
This will depend on the university’s policy. Talk to your university first. Consider the options you have, which may be deferring and restarting the following year or leaving uni and reapplying for the following year.
Usually you can defer university for a year. This will depend on the institution you’re applying to and the availability of the course the following year.
The choice is up to you. Make sure you gather together all the pros and cons before you make your decision.
We encourage you to chat to friends, family and teachers. Chat with your chosen universities too. This way, you’ll be as informed as you can prior to making any final decisions.
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