Being waitlisted feels like limbo. Here's how to navigate it strategically.

What Being Waitlisted Means:

The school likes you but doesn't have room — yet. They'll admit students from the waitlist if accepted students decline their offers.

Waitlist Statistics:

• Waitlist sizes vary from 100 to 3,000+ students
• Acceptance rates from waitlists range from 0% to 50%+ depending on the year
• Some schools rank their waitlist; others don't

What to Do:

1. Accept your spot on the waitlist — It costs nothing and keeps the door open


2. Send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) — This is crucial. Include:

• Reaffirm that this is your top choice
• Update on any new achievements since applying
• Provide additional context or information
• Keep it to one page

1. Deposit at another school — You need a backup plan. You can withdraw if you're admitted from the waitlist.


2. Send ONE additional update if you have significant new information (award, improved grades, etc.)


3. Don't bombard admissions — One LOCI and one update is enough. More than that is counterproductive.

When to Move On:

Most waitlist decisions come in May-June. If you haven't heard by July, it's time to embrace your other choice.

Remember: many students who were waitlisted at their "dream school" end up loving where they actually attend.