What Does Being Waitlisted Mean?
For many students, receiving a waitlist decision from a college can be both confusing and frustrating. Unlike an acceptance or a rejection, being placed on a waitlist leaves students in a state of uncertainty. So, what does it really mean to be waitlisted, and what should you do next?
Understanding the Waitlist Decision
A waitlist decision means that the college sees you as a qualified applicant but doesn’t currently have a spot available in its incoming class. Colleges use waitlists as a way to manage their enrollment numbers. Since not all accepted students will ultimately choose to enroll, schools keep a waitlist to fill any vacancies that may arise.
Why Do Colleges Use Waitlists?
Colleges aim to enroll a specific number of students each year. Because student yield (the percentage of accepted students who actually enroll) can vary, colleges use waitlists as a safeguard. If fewer students accept their offers than expected, admissions officers may turn to the waitlist to fill remaining spots.
What Are Your Chances of Getting Off the Waitlist?
The likelihood of being admitted from the waitlist varies widely by school and year. Some factors that influence waitlist movement include:
The number of admitted students who decline their offers.
The size of the waitlist and how many students are ahead of you.
The college’s enrollment goals and space availability.
Whether you demonstrate continued interest in attending the school.
Many highly selective schools admit very few students from the waitlist, while others may offer spots to a larger percentage depending on enrollment trends. Some colleges share waitlist statistics from previous years, which can provide insight into your chances.
What Should You Do If You’re Waitlisted?
If you’ve been placed on a waitlist, here are a few key steps to take:
Decide Whether to Accept Your Spot – If you’re still interested in the school, follow the college’s instructions to confirm that you’d like to remain on the waitlist.
Submit a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) – A well-crafted LOCI can reaffirm your enthusiasm for the school and provide updates on any new academic or extracurricular achievements.
Consider Alternative Options – While waiting, secure your spot at another college by submitting an enrollment deposit before the deadline. This ensures you have a backup plan.
Avoid Over-Messaging the Admissions Office – While it’s okay to express interest, excessive contact can come across as pushy.
Be Patient – Waitlist decisions typically come after the May 1 enrollment deadline and can extend into the summer.
Final Thoughts
Being waitlisted is not a rejection—it’s an indication that the college sees potential in you. While the uncertainty can be stressful, taking proactive steps and keeping an open mind about your other college options will help you stay in control of your college journey. No matter where you end up, remember that your success is not defined by any single admission decision but by the effort and passion you bring to your education and experiences.
