Deferred and Early Admission

At Mount Holyoke, we realize that personal schedules differ. Some students are ready for college early; others want the flexibility to experience a foreign country or a professional opportunity before starting college.

Deferred Admission

Every year some students decide to defer their admission because they want to travel, perform community service, or take time to explore an activity of their choosing. Be aware that students are not allowed to defer admission in order to study at another institution where they will receive academic credit.

Students should contact the admission office shortly after they are accepted if they are considering deferring admission; they will be required to request a deferment in writing from the dean of admission. A $300 enrollment fee also will be required in order to hold a place in the next year's class. Foreign citizens who have been awarded financial aid may not defer admission.

Early Admission

Some talented students are ready for college after just three years of high school. The Office of Admission will consider an early entrance application, but the student must demonstrate exceptional maturity (both personally and intellectually). The student should also have good reasons for wanting early admission and the support of her parents and college counselor. Questions? Contact admission.