Deferring a year at UC Berkeley Forum

[Real Madrid]

Anyone know how strict or lenient Berkeley is with deferral requests? I am living abroad and potentially interested in deferring but interested to know of others' past experiences.

[Redamon1]

Can't provide any sort of comprehensive assessment but I deferred last year... It's probably best to make your request earlier in the cycle so the admissions office has plenty of time to tap into the waitlist. I deferred primarily for personal reasons but also explained all the great professional things I would be doing with the extra year (all of which were true). With sufficient lead time and justification, you've got a chance. And of course, ask nicely. Good luck! Sorry not to see you in c/o 2015!

[Real Madrid]

Thanks so much! I feel like I have a decent enough reason, but my real concern is that I'm not 100% set on Berkeley yet - still waiting on financial aid information (any scholarship from Berkeley would probably seal the deal). At this point I'm like 70-30 in favor of Berkeley, so don't I have to wait until I know for sure before I can request a deferral (since it's binding)?

[Redamon1]

Yes, it's binding so you need to know B is your top choice.