College Application Waitlist

Every coveted offer demands strategic action. Don’t let your student remain just another name on the waitlist.

Definition of the Waitlist Stage and How to Understand Its Potential Opportunities

Potential Opportunities of Being on the Waitlist:

A Second Chance at Admission:

Being placed on the waitlist means you still have a chance to be admitted to your desired college. It is not a rejection, but rather an extension of the admissions process.

An Opportunity to Demonstrate Continued Interest:

This stage allows you to show further enthusiasm and commitment to the school — which could become a decisive factor in moving off the waitlist.

Waitlist Overview:

Unpredictable Enrollment:

Due to fluctuations in application rates and external factors such as the pandemic, colleges have found it increasingly difficult to accurately predict enrollment numbers.

Waitlist as a Tool:

Colleges use the waitlist as an important tool to effectively manage their yield rate (the percentage of admitted students who enroll) and class size. Since 2020, the number of students admitted from waitlists has significantly increased.

What to Do If You Are Waitlisted in U.S. College Applications:

Express Your Interest — Take Proactive Steps

Claim Your Spot:

Make sure to officially accept your place on the waitlist according to the college’s instructions.

Send a "Letter of Continued Interest" (LOCI):

Every year, about 20% of waitlisted students send a "love letter" — a thoughtful letter reaffirming their strong desire to attend the school and updating them on any new achievements.

Example: Amherst College

~1,000 students placed on the waitlist
~500 students accept their spot
~100 students submit a Letter of Continued Interest

Submit an Additional Letter of Recommendation (if allowed):

If the college does not explicitly prohibit additional materials, consider submitting a new recommendation letter.
Choose someone who can highlight aspects of your character, growth, or achievements that the admissions committee may not have seen yet.

Drafting an Email to Your Recommender:

Explain why you are specifically inviting them to write on your behalf, emphasizing how they have witnessed and supported your personal growth and development, citing specific examples if possible.

Reach Out to Your Regional Admissions Officer:

Engage in positive and respectful communication to reaffirm your strong interest and enthusiasm for the school.

Communicate with Your High School Counselor (Dean/College Counselor):

Inform them about your top-choice schools among those where you are waitlisted.
They may be able to advocate for you by reaching out directly to the admissions office.

Always Follow Instructions:

If the college explicitly states not to submit any additional materials — respect their guidelines and do not send unsolicited documents.

How to Maximize Your Chances: Assessing Your Waitlist Position and Taking the Right Actions

Admissions Officer’s Perspective: How Admissions Officers Evaluate Waitlisted Students and What Factors Influence Their Chances of Being Admitted

Students Who Show Strong and Sustained Interest:

Admissions officers prioritize students who proactively submit a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI).

Updated Achievements and Materials:

If an applicant has achieved any new accomplishments, awards, or notable progress after submitting their application, these updates can strengthen their candidacy.

Regional Diversity of the Applicant:

Admissions officers aim to maintain diversity and balance within the class in terms of academic background, geographic location, and cultural diversity.
Applicants from underrepresented regions or with unique backgrounds may have a better chance of being selected from the waitlist to help the school achieve its diversity goals.

Potential Contribution to the Community and School:

Admissions officers assess what the applicant could bring to the campus community.
Students with a strong record of community service, leadership experience, or special talents may stand out.

Applicant’s Personality and Behavior:

Positive, proactive, and resilient applicants are more likely to be admitted.

Case Study

Accepted off the Waitlist to Princeton University (From Texas)

Demonstrated continued interest and built personal connections with the institution
Engaged with the university by visiting the campus and interacting with faculty members and current students

Accepted off the Waitlist to New York University

Submitted a heartfelt Letter of Continued Interest
Proactively updated the admissions office with new achievements and accomplishments since the original application