Getting waitlisted: what does it mean?

Hey guys, I've been hearing people talk about getting waitlisted at their top-choice colleges. What exactly does getting waitlisted mean? Does it have any impact on my chances of getting accepted?

Getting waitlisted means that the college has not made a final decision on your application; you've neither been accepted nor rejected outright. Instead, you are placed on a "waitlist" with other applicants the college finds desirable but doesn't have space for in the current admitted class.

Colleges usually use the waitlist as a backup in case they don't get enough accepted students to enroll, due to various circumstances such as declining an offer of admission at that college or choosing to enroll elsewhere.

Being waitlisted does have some impact on your chances of getting accepted, but it's important to manage your expectations. The number of students admitted from the waitlist varies each year and depends on several factors, including the college's yield (the percentage of accepted students who choose to enroll) and the goals set for the incoming class by the college administration.

If you're waitlisted at your top-choice college, it's essential to still make plans for attending another school. In the meantime, consider writing a letter of continued interest to the college, which helps express your commitment and any updates on your achievements since applying. Be sure to keep an eye on your email and the college's website for any updates related to admissions decisions for waitlisted students.

Ultimately, being waitlisted can be stressful and uncertain, but it's not the end of the road. Stay positive and be proactive in considering other options while you wait for a decision.