The LOCI Strategy Checklist: What to Do After a College Deferral (and When Not to Act)

Being deferred from a college can feel unsettling—especially when families aren’t sure what actually helps next.

The LOCI Strategy Checklist is a clear, calm guide for parents and students navigating college deferrals with intention, not urgency. Designed by experienced college admissions consultants, this checklist walks families through exactly when a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) helps, when it doesn’t, and how to avoid common mistakes that can quietly hurt an application.

Inside, you’ll find step-by-step guidance on:

• What a college deferral really means (and what it doesn’t)

• How to confirm each college’s policy on updates and LOCIs

• How to decide whether sending a LOCI is appropriate for this student

• What counts as a meaningful update—and what admissions ignores

• How to structure a strong LOCI without overthinking it

• Timing guidance and clear “send vs. don’t send” criteria

This checklist is especially helpful for families who want to respond thoughtfully, protect their student’s credibility, and reduce unnecessary stress during an already uncertain moment.

Clarity—not speed—is what matters most after a deferral.

👉 Download the checklist to move forward with confidence.