Northeastern Waitlist: How can I improve my chances?

If I end up on Northeastern's waitlist, what can I do to increase my chances of getting off it? Should I send a Letter of Continued Interest or focus on improving some aspect of my application?

If you find yourself waitlisted at Northeastern, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of acceptance:

1. Send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI): One of the most effective ways to show your enthusiasm for Northeastern is to write a well-crafted LOCI. In this letter, reiterate your interest in the university and why it remains your top choice. Mention any recent achievements, academic or extracurricular, that were not in your original application, and how they will allow you to contribute to Northeastern's campus community. If you want more guidance on how to write a strong LOCI, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/deferred-or-waitlisted-tips-for-writing-a-letter-of-continued-interest/.

2. Update your application with new accomplishments: If you have received any notable awards, improved your GPA, or added significant extracurricular achievements since submitting your application, make sure to provide updates to the admissions office, whether in your LOCI or by sending them the information directly (an updated version of your transcript, for example). Such accomplishments show your continued dedication and growth as a student.

3. Obtain an additional letter of recommendation (optional): If you have a teacher, coach, or mentor who can provide further further insight into your character and abilities, ask them to write an additional letter of recommendation on your behalf. However, make sure they can offer a genuinely new perspective on your candidacy for Northeastern. Admissions officers are busy people, so they won't appreciate having to re-read information that can already be found in your original letters of recommendation.

4. Demonstrate interest in the university: Many schools, including Northeastern, monitor demonstrated interest as part of their admissions process. Attend any available events for waitlisted students, reach out to the admissions office with thoughtful questions, and engage with the school's social media. These actions can show that you're truly passionate about attending Northeastern. While demonstrated interest isn't a major factor in admissions decisions, you want to be sure you're doing whatever you can to maximize your chances of getting in off the waitlist.

5. Focus on alternative plans: While it's important to take steps to improve your chances of being accepted off the waitlist at Northeastern, you should also plan for the possibility that you may not be admitted. Continue making progress with your backup options and confirm your enrollment at another institution by May 1st. If you do get accepted off the waitlist at Northeastern later, you'll have the opportunity to reassess your commitment, although keep in mind that you will likely lose your enrollment deposit.

Lastly, remember that the number of waitlisted students admitted can vary from year to year, but is generally quite low at selective schools like Northeastern. While following these steps may increase your chances, acceptance from a waitlist is not guaranteed. Stay optimistic and proactive, but it's vital to have other options in place as well. Best of luck - fingers crossed that you're simply accepted to Northeastern, and don't need to worry about the waitlist at all!