What does being waitlisted mean for college admissions?

I applied to a couple of my dream schools and just got notified that I'm waitlisted at one of them. Honestly, I'm kind of confused about what this actually means for my chances of getting in. Is being waitlisted a good sign, or does it basically mean I'm not going to get admitted? Also, are there things I should be doing while I'm waitlisted to improve my chances, like sending additional info to the school or showing continued interest? Would love to hear about people's experiences and any advice you might have!

Being waitlisted means that while you were not initially accepted in the main pool of applicants, you demonstrated qualities and academic abilities that the school finds valuable. Therefore, they've placed you on a waitlist to potentially offer you admission if there are still open spots after the initial round of accepted students have made their decisions.

While not an outright rejection, it's essential to understand that being waitlisted does not guarantee an eventual acceptance. The number of applicants taken off the waitlist can vary greatly from year to year, depending on how many admitted students choose to enroll. Some schools might admit a substantial number of waitlisted applicants, while others may admit very few or even none in a given year.

As for what you can do while on the waitlist, the next steps could depend on the specific school's policies. Some colleges may appreciate an updated letter of interest, also known as a letter of continued interest (LOCI), where you reaffirm your interest in the school and update them on any significant achievements since your application. This shows the admissions committee that you're still engaged and eager to join their institution.

However, not all schools may appreciate additional contact. It's best to review the school’s waitlist policy, which they probably discussed in the letter notifying you of your waitlist status. If the school states they do not wish for additional information, it's crucial to respect that.

While being waitlisted can be somewhat disheartening, remember that it means the school noticed your potential. In the meantime, be sure to plan for other possibilities. If you've received acceptances from other schools, weigh those options carefully. You may find that another school is a better fit for you in the end.