Waitlisted at UChicago: Now What?

I've been waitlisted at University of Chicago and I'm not really sure what my next steps should be. Are there any steps I can take to increase my chances of getting off the waitlist? Also, does anyone know the acceptance rate for people on the UChicago waitlist?

Congrats on being waitlisted at UChicago! Being on the waitlist means that you were a strong candidate and that the admissions team believed you to be capable of succeeding at the university. As for your next steps, there are a few strategies that may increase your chances of being accepted off the waitlist.

1. Write a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI): This is a letter you send to the school expressing your continued interest in attending. In this letter, you can update them about any achievements or accolades you've gained since you applied, as well as re-emphasize why you believe UChicago is a good fit for you.

2. Stay Active: Continue to participate in extracurriculars and maintain your grades. UChicago may ask for your second-semester senior grades before making a decision, so it's important to keep up your academic performance.

3. Be Patient: Waitlist decisions often don't come out until late spring or early summer, after admitted students have decided whether or not to attend. So be patient and stay positive!

As for the acceptance rate from the waitlist, this can vary from year to year and can be quite unpredictable.

Regardless, it's crucial to also have a backup plan. If you've been accepted to other schools you’re interested in, make sure you secure your spot by the May 1st deadline. This way, you’ll have a place in the fall, whether or not you’re accepted off the UChicago waitlist. Good luck!