The University of Chicago Law School grants deferrals on a limited, case-by-case basis. The Law School anticipates you will matriculate in Autumn 2025.  We understand, however, that circumstances may change after admission due to fellowships, graduate programs, and various other personal and professional circumstances. If you wish to request a deferral, please follow the steps below. Our Admissions Team is also here to discuss your plans and any deferral concerns.

Deferral requests should be submitted by June 1, 2025. After this date, please reach out to the Admissions Team to discuss deferral options at law-class28@uchicago.edu. 

Deferral Request Process  

1.     Please complete the Deferral Request Form Below and attach a letter detailing:

            (a) why you are requesting a deferral;

            (b) what you plan to do during your deferral year; and,

            (c) how this opportunity will complement your legal education and professional plans. 

2.     The Admissions Committee will review your deferral request and communicate via email the status of your request. 

3.     If the Admissions Committee grants your deferral request, please confirm you have submitted your $500 seat deposit via the Online Status Checker. You must submit your $500 seat deposit in order to receive the Deferral Agreement. 

4.     After you submit your $500 seat deposit, a member of the Admissions Team will email you the Deferral Agreement. 

5.     In order to accept Deferred Admission:

            (a) Review, sign, and email a PDF copy of your Deferral Agreement by the date designated in the Deferral Agreement.

            (b) Withdraw all accepted applications from other law schools.

            (c) Agree not to accept deferred admission at another school.

            (d) Agree not apply to other law schools in the future.

6.     A member of the Admissions Committee will confirm the receipt of your deferral and your status tracker will change to "Deferred." 

7.     For one-year deferrals, in December 2025, submit a second $500 seat deposit and send an updated CAS Report through LSAC to reserve your seat in the Class of 2029. If your deferral is for two or more years, you will submit one $500 seat deposit in the winter of each deferral year. In December of the year before you will begin law school, you will also submit an updated CAS Report through LSAC. 

We are looking forward to having you at UChicago Law! As always, please do not hesitate to contact us with questions, and please let us know if your situation changes.