What happens if I don't get in regular decision?

Feeling a bit worried about my college applications and what to do if I don't get accepted through regular decision. What are the best options for students if this happens? Are there any backup plans worth considering or steps I should take next?

If you don't get accepted through regular decision, there are a few routes you could consider. Let's explore some of these possibilities.

1. Community College Transfer: One common route students take is enrolling in a community college and then transferring to a four-year university. This can have numerous benefits: the ability to complete prerequisites courses and improve your GPA, often at a lower cost. Furthermore, many states have articulation agreements to aid community college students in transferring to state schools.

2. Gap Year: Temporarily postponing university to take a gap year is becoming an increasingly popular option. This time could be used to gain work experience, volunteer, travel, or participate in internships. The advantage is that it can give you more life experience, as well as potentially strengthen your college application.

3. Reapply Next Year: If you have specific schools you are set on, you can spend a year improving your qualifications and reapply. This could involve retaking standardized tests (as required and applicable), strengthening your extracurricular profile, or gaining work experience.

4. Attend a less selective institution: You could attend a school that accepted you, but wasn’t your first (or even second) choice. It's key to remember that the prestige or selectivity of a school doesn't determine your success - what you make of your time there does.

5. Pursue an Alternative Path: Depending on your interests and career goals, you could look into alternatives to traditional four-year universities. This might include vocational schools, trade schools, or entrepreneurship.

6. Get on a Waitlist: If waitlisted, you have a chance of admission if spots in the entering class open up. It's crucial to remember, however, that acceptance off the waitlist isn't guaranteed, and you should still plan accordingly.

It's normal to feel anxious about the college admission process. However, it's essential to remember that there are many pathways to success, each unique to a student's individual journey. Regardless of the initial outcome, there will be a lot of opportunities for growth and learning. So whatever happens, don't lose hope!