ED decisions came out yesterday and, to say the least, I’m disappointed. I had a really good feeling about my chances, and now my confidence is shaken. I’m not really sure what my next steps should be, and I was wondering if anyone who was deferred and then admitted could comment with what you did that got you in at the end. Also, if I get in, should I be embarrassed? Would I be considered less qualified because I wasn’t accepted immediately? What are the reasons for deferrals? Is it easier to get in during the RD round? I’m just not really sure why I wasn’t bad enough to get denied outright, or good enough to get accepted automatically. Any information would be much appreciated!
If you get in, you absolutely should not be embarrassed about being deferred. You still got in to a selective college. There’s nothing to be ashamed of in that. Also, I doubt anyone will ask you about the specifics of your admission. Most people are excited about starting college and don’t want to dwell on the past, so it would be strange for someone to ask you about your application.
Have you done an interview yet? If not, schedule one as soon as possible, since the deadline for requesting an interview is quickly approaching. You could also see if there’s someone in your life who could write an additional letter of recommendation, especially if they would be able to describe aspects of you that weren’t touched upon in other parts of your application.
Just keep in mind that every year, many people who were deferred are ultimately accepted. It’s certainly not a hopeless situation.
@WendyWellesley13 I did an interview this past July with an alumna and I think it went well! I’m sure you’re right that there would be no reason to be embarrassed 
I might be able to get an additional rec or two… do you happen to know the biggest reason people are deferred? Or who the Midwestern admissions rep is by any chance?
I’m not sure who the rep is for the Midwest, unfortunately. Personally, I’d recommend not asking the admissions office about your application. I don’t think they can comment on individual applications, so it’s not worth contacting them unless you have an update or new letter of recommendation to add.
@WendyWellesley13 Apparently Wellesley doesn’t have regional admissions officers, just a bunch of people who rotate which state they review 
Thanks for the advice, though!
Is there anyone else who was accepted to Wellesley after being deferred that would like to share tips?
y daughter was deferred ED and just received an email asking her for missing financial aid forms, does this mean she was possibly accepted or do they do they review everyones financial aid whether admitted or denied? Thanks
If she was deferred (and not rejected), then she is still being considered. At most schools admissions and financial aid operate somewhat independently from each other. Financial Aid processes all applicants - there wouldn’t be time to do all the processing if they waited for admissions to make their decisions and then only processed admitted students.
So don’t read too much into it, but it should mean she’s still under consideration - which is what a decision of deferred means.