What is waitlisted for college?

I'm currently going through the college application process and I've heard about being waitlisted, but I'm not exactly sure what it means. Does it mean you still have a chance of getting accepted? How often do students get moved from the waitlist to accepted, and what can I do to improve my chances if I find myself in that situation? Any advice or personal experiences would be super helpful. Thanks in advance!

Sure, I'd be happy to clarify this for you! Being waitlisted at a college means that you are in a sort of "holding pattern." The admissions committee thinks that you're a capable student, but they might not have enough spots to admit you outright. So you've been placed on a list, and if a spot becomes available—perhaps because an accepted student decides to go elsewhere—then the college can offer that spot to you.

It's important to note that the number of students who move from the waitlist to being accepted can vary greatly from school to school, and from year to year. Some colleges rarely take students off their waitlist, while others may accept many. This is usually dependent on the number of accepted students who enroll (also known as yield).

In terms of improving your chances if you're waitlisted, some potential steps can include writing a letter to the college expressing your continued strong interest in attending and updating them on any significant accomplishments since you sent in your application. However, it's important to follow whatever instructions the school gives waitlisted students, as some colleges expressly prefer not to receive additional materials.

Remember, being waitlisted isn't a reflection on your potential to succeed in college. It’s largely the result of institutional strategies and pressures, along with downright luck.