What to do if you are waitlisted

• Pat yourself on the back! You wouldn't be waitlisted if you didn't meet the basic admission requirements!
• Decide if you really want to go to that particular school.  If not, it's probably not worth remaining on the waitlist.
• Research what conditions apply to waitlisted students.  Anything you lose? (for example, priority housing, parking, etc.)
• Is this particular waitlist ranked?  If so, the higher you are on the list the better your chances.  Contact the admissions office and ask- most will tell you where you are  and even what percent are generally admitted off their list.  It is usually a small percent, 5-10% at most.
• Write a letter to the admissions office.  Advise them of any new achievements, awards, or anything else positive you can share.
• Emphasize how much you want to attend.  Indicate that, if accepted, you WILL attend. (Of course, only if that is true!)
• Get additional letters of recommendation from different people.
• Keep your grades up!  The school might use your last grades as a determining factor.
• Keep up your activities.  Can you lead or shine in your senior year?
• Request an interview.  If you've had one, try for a second.  Get in front of them if possible.
• Remember that waitlist decisions aren't made until after the May 1st deadline.
• Take a fresh look at your other acceptances, and select one by the deadline given.  Send your deposit and realize that, whatever happens with the waitlist, you have somewhere good to go.
• If you are accepted off a waitlist, congratulations!!! Notify the other school that you will not be attending.  Then of course, notify the waitlisted school that you will be attending.  You will most likely lose your other deposit.
• Enjoy the rest of your senior year and prepare for the great adventure ahead of you!!!