What's Harvard's Waitlist Acceptance Rate Like?

This is just a hypothetical, but if I were to end up on Harvard's waitlist, what would my chances actually be of getting accepted? Does Harvard often accept waitlisted applicants? Any insight or personal experiences would be appreciated.

Harvard is known for having a very low waitlist acceptance rate. In fact, in previous years, it has been as low as <1%. What this means is that for every 100 students waitlisted, less than 1 student was eventually offered admission.This rate can fluctuate from year to year based on various factors such as the number of admitted students who chose to enroll (known as "yield") and the size and composition of the incoming class. For example, if a higher number of admitted students decide to attend Harvard, the college will have less space to admit students from the waitlist.

So, while being waitlisted is an accomplishment in itself and it means that Harvard sees potential in you, the odds of being accepted from the waitlist are slim. But remember that wherever you end up, whether it's at Harvard or another institution, you can succeed and thrive.

In the meantime, commit to a college where you have been accepted, and make your enrollment deposit. If by any chance an offer does come from Harvard, you can accept it, and forfeit your initial enrollment deposit. Just remember to let the first college know as soon as possible of the change in your decision.