How can you tell if you've been rejected from a college?

Nobody wants to be rejected, but it's part of the college application process. How do you find out if you've been denied admission by a college? Do they tell you directly or is it more subtle?

Every college has a different approach to notifying applicants about their admissions decision. However, for most colleges, you'll find out about your acceptance or rejection through one or more of the following methods:

- Online portal: Many colleges and universities use an online portal where you can log in with your applicant details and see your decision. This is a common method for both acceptance and rejection notices.

- Email: Some schools use email to notify applicants about their admissions decision. These emails may contain the decision itself, or they may simply prompt you to check the online portal where the decision can be viewed.

- Physical mail: While less common nowadays, some schools still send decision letters through the mail, especially if they're following a tradition. Typically, a thick envelope signifies acceptance and includes additional forms and information, while a thin envelope usually contains a rejection letter.

If the decision hasn't been posted on the portal or sent out via mail or email on the date specified by the college, it's a good idea to follow up with the admissions office to confirm the decision release date. Remember, it's perfectly normal to feel disappointed if you receive a rejection, but don't let it deter you from your future plans.

Many successful people have been rejected from their first-choice institutions and have gone on to have fulfilling careers and academic experiences. Stay positive and consider all your post-high school options, including other colleges to which you have been admitted, community college, gap year programs, vocational school, or the workforce.