Waitlisted? Here are some tips to help you intentionally navigate the process.

As a journalist who has covered the college admissions process for years, I've seen the elation on the faces of high school seniors who receive their acceptance letters, and the heartbreak that comes with being rejected. However, for those who find themselves on the waitlist, the process can be even more confusing and stressful. So what happens when you get waitlisted after applying to college?

Firstly, it's important to understand that being waitlisted means that the admissions committee has not yet made a final decision on your application. Instead, they are placing you in a holding pattern, waiting to see if any of their accepted students decline their offer of admission, leaving spots open for those on the waitlist. According to a study by the National Association for College Admission Counseling, roughly 40% of waitlisted students eventually get accepted.

However, the waiting game can be difficult. It can be tempting to just sit back and wait for the college to make a decision, but there are things you can do to improve your chances of getting accepted. Here are some best practices for waitlisted students to observe, as told by US 4 Year degree granting admissions offices:

1. Accept your spot on the waitlist: If you're offered a spot on the waitlist, make sure to accept it promptly. This lets the admissions office know that you're still interested in attending the school and that you're willing to wait for a decision.  Being prompt in general is a virtue and most people appreciate it. 

2. Submit any additional materials: Some colleges may allow you to submit additional materials, such as updated test scores, new awards or honors, or a letter of continued interest. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and only submit materials that are relevant and add value to your application.  If you need to provide more than one thing, don't wait to collect it all, before you submit.  Forwarding updated material in "real time" with a short note to the admissions member handling your case, is preferable. 

3. Be patient: Waiting can be tough, but it's important to be patient and respectful during the process. Don't pester the admissions office with constant emails or phone calls, but do reach out once or twice to express your continued interest and ask any relevant questions.  

4. Consider your other options: While you wait for a decision from the waitlist, make sure to consider your other options. You may want to submit deposits to other schools where you've been accepted to secure your spot, just in case. 

Ultimately, being waitlisted can be a difficult and uncertain experience, but it's important to remain positive and proactive. By following these best practices and staying in touch with the admissions office, you can improve your chances of eventually being accepted to your dream school.

References:

National Association for College Admission Counseling. (2020). College Openings Update: Options for Qualified Students. Retrieved from https://www.nacacnet.org/globalassets/documents/publications/research/college-openings-update.pdf