How to Turn a Waitlist into an Acceptance

Being placed on a wait list or being deferred by a first-choice college is not the end of the road for students. Although the situation is difficult, there are a number of strategies to increase the chances of being admitted.

First and foremost, it is imperative for students to inform the admissions office in writing that their school is still the number one choice and that they would definitely attend if accepted. Colleges want assurances that if they draw from the wait listed pool of applicants that these potential students are serious about attending and committed to their schools. Next, contact all persons that were met with during the interview process and inform them of the strong commitment to that school and desire to attend. Submit an update of any and all relevant information pertaining to new grades, projects, test scores, awards, etc.

Finally, review the original application with a fine-tooth comb to make sure that it was the best representation of who you are as a student and what you can contribute to the college as a potential student. Often, students discover hastily written or underdeveloped sections that may have led an application reader to assume a lack of interest. If necessary, do a solid re-work of the application and re-submit with a brand-new version. Be sure that the essays are not generic, but truly reveal something about the student as an individual.

In counseling students, I have on more than one occasion reviewed the application submitted by students who were rejected by all of their top choice schools. Usually, the rejection was based on not providing the schools with a complete understanding of the applicant