What's the Deal with Harvard's Waitlist?

So, I've been doing some research on the Harvard waitlist, and I can't seem to find a lot of information about how it works, like how many people get off the waitlist each year and what my chances would be. Can anyone who's been through the process or knows about it help me understand Harvard's waitlist situation better?

The waitlist at Harvard, like at many other schools, can be a bit unpredictable. Factors like how many admitted students choose to attend and the need for a balanced class composition can impact the number of students taken off the waitlist. That being said, I can provide some general insight into how the process typically works.

When Harvard places you on their waitlist, it means they are interested in your application but haven't offered you a spot in the incoming class yet. Being on the waitlist is not a guarantee of admission, but it does mean that you're still in the running. The size of the waitlist can vary with each admissions cycle, and the number of students admitted from the waitlist typically ranges from a handful to a few dozen, depending on the year.

Factors that can determine your chances of being admitted off the waitlist include your overall application and how it compares to others on the waitlist, as well as any changes or updates you provide to the admissions office. If you have an update to your accomplishments or your application (such as an award, improved grades, or new extracurricular), it's a good idea to let the admissions office know so they can take it into account when evaluating waitlisted applicants.

It's important to remember that the waitlist is not ranked, meaning that there isn't a specific order in which waitlisted applicants are considered. Instead, Harvard will look at everyone on the waitlist and evaluate them based on the needs of the incoming class, which can change from year to year.

While it can be difficult to predict your chances of getting off the waitlist at Harvard, you should continue to pursue other college options and accept an offer from another institution by the May 1st deadline. If you are accepted off the waitlist at Harvard, you will have the option to change your decision, but you should be prepared to potentially lose any deposits you paid to the first institution.

Stay positive and proactive, but make sure you have a backup plan in case you aren't admitted from the waitlist. While the waitlist process can be stressful and uncertain, it's not the end of the world if you don't get in—there are many fantastic colleges out there, and you will likely find success wherever you ultimately attend.