What's the deal with the waitlist at Cornell?

I'm a bit stressed about the admissions process, not gonna lie. In case I end up on the waitlist for Cornell, what should I expect? Does anyone have insights or personal experiences they could share?

Understanding the waitlist process can be a stressful part of college admissions - you've put in so much time and energy into your application, only to receive a maybe. However, it's essential to remember that being waitlisted is better than a denial because it means you're qualified to attend the university!

Here's what you need to know about Cornell's waitlist process:

Firstly, you're not alone on the waitlist. Many students across all of Cornell's undergraduate colleges get waitlisted every year. The number fluctuates depending on the pool of applicants and the yield rates of admitted students.Upon being waitlisted, Cornell will often update you around May 1st (the deadline for accepted students to commit to a college) once they have a better sense of how many spots are available. However, this timing may vary, and it can extend into the summer months.

Now, it's important to realize the admit rate from the waitlist varies. Over the past few years, it's tended to stay in the single-digit percentage range, reflecting the high level of competitive applicants. So, brace yourself for any outcome.

During your time on the waitlist, Cornell appreciates updates that reflect significant achievements or circumstances that could boost your application. However, remember to maintain a balance to avoid spamming the admissions office with minor updates.

If you've decided that Cornell is your top choice, consider writing a letter of continued interest to the admissions office. Show them your enthusiasm, commitment, and reasons for wanting to attend Cornell specifically.

Lastly, you may want to have a backup plan. If you're waitlisted at Cornell, there's a strong chance you've been accepted to other competitive programs. Make sure to secure a spot at another school where you can see yourself thriving, in case the waitlist doesn't pan out.

Please remember that being waitlisted is not a reflection of your worth or abilities. Many factors are at play in admissions decisions, so don't be too hard on yourself. Good luck!