I have got an offer for MSc Management. As I am planning to start the program in 2021 not in 2020 due to COVID-19 worldwide, should I accept the offer by paying a deposit as deposit deadline is in 2 days or withdraw my offer and apply next year at Cass for 2021 intake by taking COVID-19 situation into consideration next year (I will then be applying to Warwick, Manchester as well and Imperial (If I get a good GMAT score) )

Which should be the better choice? Please help with your recommendation as me and my family are also worried as far as the current COVID-19?

Will competition significantly increase next year to get admissions into schools like Cass, Warwick, and Manchester?
Cass business school gave me the option of deferment by paying deposit but I am now a bit confused considering the overall situation.

[Edited by Omkar Kulkarni on May 11, 2020]

I imagine that it's easier to get into the waitlist this year than to get admitted next year. As you say, many people will delay so there will be more competition next year. Cass may not view you as highly next year, since they may think you are using them as a safety school and are less likely to attend even if you accept an offer. I think it's worth paying the deposit and apply to better schools as early as possible. 

I imagine that it's easier to get into the waitlist this year than to get admitted next year. As you say, many people will delay so there will be more competition next year. Cass may not view you as highly next year, since they may think you are using them as a safety school and are less likely to attend even if you accept an offer. I think it's worth paying the deposit and apply to better schools as early as possible. 

If you defer entry then your seat is reserved. There is no secondary selection. They need your updated documents to better meet your needs and fit you into teams. The exact process they can describe to you.