If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve received some not-so-great news: you’ve been waitlisted at one or more US universities. It’s definitely not the news you were hoping for, but being waitlisted doesn’t mean your chances of getting into your dream school are completely dashed.
To begin, it’s important to understand what being waitlisted actually is. Basically, it means that the admissions committee has reviewed your application and feels that you have the potential to succeed at their university, but they don’t have enough spots to admit everyone they want to. So, they’ve put you on a “waitlist—a sort of holding pattern—while they wait to see if any admitted students decline their offers.
So, what can you do to increase your chances of getting off the waitlist? Here are a few tips:
Let the school know you’re still interested: This is a crucial step! You need to follow instructions that have been shared by the university to let the school know that you’re still interested in attending if a spot becomes available. Write a letter or email to the admissions office expressing your continued interest and enthusiasm for the school. Reiterate why you think you’re a good fit for the school and how attending would help you achieve your goals.
Provide updated information: If you’ve achieved any new milestones or accomplishments since you submitted your application, let the school know! This could be anything from receiving an award to taking on a leadership role in a club or organization. Providing new information that demonstrates your continued growth and achievement can help make you stand out from the other waitlisted applicants.
Keep your options open: While it’s important to let the school know you’re still interested, it’s also important to keep your options open. If you haven’t already, apply to other schools that you’re interested in attending. You never know – you might end up finding a school that’s an even better fit for you than your dream school.
Be patient: Finally, remember that being on the waitlist is a waiting game. It’s not a guarantee that you’ll get off the waitlist and be admitted, but it’s also not a definite rejection. Stay positive and patient, and keep your fingers crossed that a spot opens up for you!
Being waitlisted is never easy, but it’s important to remember that it’s not the end of the road. Whichever university you end up attending will offer you lots of growth and opportunity.
