Early Decision Rejection Update Letter? Is It a Thing?

Is it possible or recommended to send an update letter if you get rejected from early decision? I've made some changes to my extracurriculars and I'm wondering if it's worth sending them an update.

Once a university has denied your Early Decision application, unfortunately, there is typically no opportunity to appeal or update the decision. Admission decisions, including Early Decision rejections, are almost always final and are rarely overturned. The rationale for this is two-fold: 1) thousands of applications are reviewed multiple times before decisions are made, and 2) colleges have a mandate to manage their yield and class size – if they were to re-review applications and change decisions, it could throw off their careful calculations.

That being said, the strides you've made in your extracurriculars can certainly boost your Regular Decision applications at other schools. It's recommended to focus your energy on your other applications and consider adding an update or additional information to those other colleges where you haven't yet received a decision. Remember to highlight any substantial achievements or changes in your high school profile since you applied.

Take the lessons learned from the Early Decision rejection, improve upon your other applications, and stay hopeful for all of the amazing options still available to you. Do not forget that one rejection does not determine your worth or potential - the application process is extremely competitive and nuanced which means that even perfect candidates can receive rejections. Keep pushing forward, and you will find the right place for you.