Why Did I Get Put On University Waitlist?

So, you've heard back from all the universities you've applied to. Some results had you jumping for joy at, others…maybe not so much. But what if your reply was nothing but uncertainty?
What if you get waitlisted?

Getting a waitlist notification may seem irritating to some but think of it as a second chance to prove to the admissions officers that you deserve to attend their institution. But WHY you're on the waitlist might not be so black and white.

Why did I get put on waitlist?

One, they may consider you a competitive student and less likely to choose their institution which in this case, the school has lost a spot that could've went to a less competitive student who had a higher likelihood of attending.

Second, they want to control the admit rate and increase their yield rate AKA the students who accept the admissions offer.

Third, the school simply doesn't have the space to admit you.

These are just a few reasons from many others why you may be waitlisted. The important thing to know is don't be discouraged. If the institution has waitlisted you, most likely it's because they still see you attending their university.

Now, how do you get off it?

How to move from the waitlist on to the admit-list

1.Make sure you're REALLY on the waitlist:

Read your universality verdict letter carefully. Make sure you're really on the waitlist and note down any additional information the letter has provided.

2. Properly research the university

Make sure that you really want to put in the time and effort to be accepted to this university. Check their programs for your major, their facilities, faculty, location, price, among many other factors that you find important in a university.

3. Accept the waitlist invitation

It isn't assumed that you accept the waitlist so make sure you accept the offer on paper or virtually as soon as possible.

4. Prepare new information

Some schools may ask you for additional documents such as recent grades, recommendation letters, and another essay pleading your case and what you've done since you first applied. If your recent grades are not as flattering as you hoped, do not attach them. Instead, if the university allows you to submit another essay explaining your recent achievements or your circumstances, then take that chance. Even if these additional documents are optional, it is best that you submit anything that can redeem and make yourself more favorable to the admissions officers reconsidering your application. However, make sure you're not repeating your previous application. Bring new information only.

5. Be mindful of dates and making decisions

Some colleges already expect a reply to their offers so make sure that you have a backup college and that you accept their offer. If you get off the waitlist, then you must accept the new offer and decline your back up school's offer immediately. Be mindful of any enrollment fees that you cannot get refunded.

But for now? You wait.

After you've done all that, be proud of yourself.  You've worked hard throughout high school and have worked hard throughout this whole process. Stay positive and be grateful for whatever verdict you receive.