How do colleges notify you if you're not accepted?

I'm trying not to think negatively, but if I don't get in somewhere, how do they let me know? Is it usually email, or do they send a letter? What's the usual process?

The process for receiving college admission decisions, be it acceptances or rejections, can vary depending on the college. However, most colleges today communicate their decisions electronically, typically through an online portal or via email.

When you apply to a college, you generally create an account on the college's admissions portal. You'll use this portal to submit your application and any additional required materials. After a college has made a decision on your application, they frequently update your account on this portal with the decision.

Alternatively, or sometimes additionally, you might receive an email with the decision or an email informing you to check the admissions portal for an update. Sometimes, they may directly state in the email if you have been accepted or not, but in many cases, it's a more general notification to check the portal.

While less common these days, some colleges may still send decisions by physical mail. A few colleges adopt a hybrid approach, announcing acceptances online but sending rejections via standard mail.

No matter the method, it's essential to keep track of when colleges are expected to release decisions. Every college has its own timeline, and decisions can be released anywhere from December to April. If you're unsure, you can always check the college's website or call the admissions office.

Above all, it's important to remember that whether you receive an acceptance or a rejection, this is just one step in your journey. So while it's natural to worry, also make sure you're taking care of yourself during this stressful time!