Waitlisted? What to Do Next

As US universities release their last round of offers, some students will be waitlisted. Being offered a place on the waitlist is good news! Of course, a direct offer is best, but the waitlist is used by schools for well-qualified applicants who would be a great fit in their communities. Spots are limited!  With application numbers continuing to rise, The waitlist is how schools ensure they have not-over, or under-enrolled, a class.

If you were waitlisted by your first-choice school, there are key steps to take right now.

Waitlist Key Steps:

  • Put a deposit on another school: You will not hear about your spot on the waitlist until after the May 1stcommitment deadline! Thus, it’ time to really consider what school is your second choice. This may be where you attend, and you can only commit to one school at a time, so choose wisely!

 

  • Write a letter of continued interest: Most schools will have clear directions for accepting a spot on their waitlist. In addition to these steps, Vela Education recommends you write a letter of continued interest. This letter must make it clear why the school remains your first choice and highlight any academic and extracurricular achievements since you applied. This is an important step!

 

  • Be patient: Finalising a class cohort is complicated! Depending on the size of the school, the waitlist may be in the thousands. So, be patient! No need to pester the admissions team. After sending the letter of continued interest, wait for them to contact you! It may be into July or even August before you hear from schools.

 

  • Be responsible: If you were waitlisted at a school you know you will not attend even if offered a place, please do not accept a spot on their waitlist! There is no need to simply collect offers for the sake of doing so! If you are sincerely happy with your other offers, let another student have your place on the waitlist and perhaps at that school.

 

If you have any questions about your US uni offers, please reach out to us! We are here to help.