Written By Andie Pinga
College decision season is here, and if you’ve been waitlisted, you’re probably feeling a mix of emotions—confused, frustrated, maybe even hopeful. Being on a waitlist isn’t a rejection, but it’s not an acceptance either, so what does it actually mean? Let’s break it down and talk about what you can do next.
What Does Being Waitlisted Mean?
A waitlist means that the college thinks you’re a strong applicant, but they don’t currently have enough space in the incoming class. If spots open up (usually after admitted students make their final decisions by May 1), the school might pull students from the waitlist to fill those gaps.
The tricky part? There’s no way to predict exactly how many students will be admitted from the waitlist. Some years, a college may take dozens of students; other years, they might not admit anyone at all. Schools often don’t rank their waitlists, but they do prioritize students based on institutional needs, like specific majors. Some colleges may also give priority to students who demonstrate continued interest, so it’s important to take action if you’re still hoping for admission.
What Should You Do If You’re Waitlisted?
If you’re serious about attending that school, there are steps you can take to improve your chances. But if you’re no longer interested, it’s okay to decline your spot and focus on other options.
Step 1: Accept or Decline Your Spot
Most colleges require you to officially accept or decline your waitlist offer. If you want to stay on the list, follow the instructions provided by the college—this usually involves filling out a short online form. If you’re certain you won’t attend even if admitted, declining your spot helps open opportunities for other students and allows you to focus on your confirmed choices. Be sure to check the deadline for responding to the waitlist offer, as missing it could automatically remove you from consideration.
Step 2: Write a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)
If the college allows it, sending a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) can reinforce your enthusiasm and commitment. A strong LOCI should include:
- A clear statement that the school remains your top choice (if true).
- Any significant updates since your application (academic achievements, awards, leadership roles, etc.).
- A brief, personal connection to the school (why it’s the best fit for you).
- A professional, concise tone (avoid sounding desperate).
Example LOCI:
Subject: Continued Interest in [College Name] Waitlist Status
Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to take a moment to reaffirm my strong interest in [College Name]. Since submitting my application, I have [earned an academic award, taken on a leadership role, improved my GPA, etc.], and I believe these experiences have further prepared me to contribute to [College Name]’s community.
If admitted, I would eagerly accept my spot in the incoming class. Thank you for your time and consideration—I appreciate the opportunity to remain on the waitlist. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Step 3: Maintain Strong Academic Performance
Even though you’re still waiting on a final decision, don’t let your grades slip. Some colleges may request updated transcripts, and strong final grades can reinforce your application. Taking challenging courses and performing well can also demonstrate your readiness for college-level work, which might help your case if an admissions officer reviews your profile again.
Step 4: Reach Out to Your Admissions Representative
Some colleges assign regional admissions officers to applicants. If you have a contact at the school, sending a polite email inquiring about the waitlist process or any additional materials they might accept can sometimes help. However, avoid excessive follow-ups—one well-timed, professional message is enough.
Step 5: Explore Your Other Options
While hoping for the best, make sure you commit to another school by the May 1 deposit deadline. It’s important to have a solid backup plan so you’re not left scrambling if the waitlist doesn’t work out. Getting excited about your other options can help relieve stress and uncertainty. You may even find that your second-choice school offers opportunities that align better with your academic or career goals than you initially expected.
How Likely Is It That You’ll Get Off the Waitlist?
This varies widely depending on the school. Some institutions admit a significant number of students from their waitlists each year, while others accept very few, if any. Factors that influence your chances include:
- The school’s yield rate – how many admitted students choose to enroll.
- The number of students who accept their waitlist spots – if fewer students opt in, your chances may improve.
- The school’s specific needs for that year’s class – colleges sometimes look for students with particular majors, geographic diversity, or special skills.
If you’re curious about historical trends, some colleges publish data on their waitlist admissions, so it may be worth checking past numbers. However, keep in mind that each year is different, and just because a school admitted waitlisted students last year doesn’t mean they will again this year. For highly selective colleges, waitlist acceptance rates tend to be low—sometimes below 5%—so it’s important to be realistic while staying hopeful.
Final Thoughts: Stay Positive and Keep Moving Forward
Being waitlisted can feel like limbo, but it doesn’t define your future. Whether you get off the waitlist or not, you will end up at a school where you can thrive. Use this time to explore all your options, stay proactive, and remember that college is just one step in a much bigger journey.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to your school counselor, reach out to admissions offices for clarity, and lean on friends and family for support. No matter what happens, you’ve worked hard to get here, and exciting opportunities are ahead. Your success in college and beyond will ultimately be determined by your mindset, dedication, and willingness to make the most of wherever you land.
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