Stressed junior here! I've heard whispers of this famed 'Ivy Day' where all decisions are released. What should I expect and how should I best prepare for it? In particular, what time are decisions usually released - is there a standard time that they drop them all? Any tips and insider info are appreciated! Thanks!
Ivy Day, generally taking place towards the end of March, is indeed when all eight Ivy League institutions announce their regular decision admissions. It's understandably a nerve-wracking day for many applicants, but here are a few points to help you navigate it:
1. Time of Decision Release: Most Ivy League schools tend to release their decisions around 7pm Eastern Time. That said, exact timings may vary slightly from year to year and school to school.
2. Notification Method: You will likely be notified via the application portal you used to submit your application, such as the Common App or school-specific portals. An email notification prompting you to check your portal is common.
3. Emotional Preparedness: It's important to remember not to hinge all your expectations on these results. The Ivy League schools are highly selective, so a rejection, while disappointing, is not a referendum on your capabilities or worth.
4. Plan your Day: Try to keep this day as stress-free as possible. Engage in activities you enjoy and ensure you are around supportive family or friends. If you're not comfortable opening your decisions alone, consider waiting until you're in a supportive environment.
5. Decoding Decisions: You might be accepted, waitlisted, or denied - understanding these outcomes will help. An acceptance is self-explanatory. A denial means you have not been accepted this application cycle. A waitlist means you might still have a chance of acceptance, but it depends on how many accepted students decide to enroll.
6. Next Steps: If you're accepted, hearty congratulations! You'll have until May 1 to decide whether to enroll, so take your time comparing your financial aid packages, revisiting campuses if possible, and assessing where you'll fit best. If you're waitlisted, the school will provide instructions on the next steps, but bear in mind the percentage of students admitted from the waitlist varies greatly.
Preparation is key! By knowing what to anticipate, you can approach Ivy Day with a clear mind and ready heart - best of luck!
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