College Waitlist 2025: How to Get Off and What to Do Next

Being waitlisted is not a rejection. Colleges use waitlists to manage yield rates, and students do get accepted. Here is how to improve your chances.

Waitlist Acceptance Rates

Of students who remain on waitlists, colleges accept an average of 20 percent. At highly selective schools, only about 7 percent eventually gain admission.

Step 1: Accept Your Spot

First, accept a position at another school and pay your deposit. Have a Plan A and Plan B.

Step 2: Write a Letter of Continued Interest

Before May 1, write to your admissions rep confirming the school is your top choice and you will 100 percent attend if admitted. This is crucial.

Step 3: Update with Accomplishments

Share significant achievements since applying: new test scores, improved grades, awards, new leadership positions, or research.

Step 4: Stay in Contact

One thoughtful letter is sufficient. Do not overwhelm the admissions office with multiple communications.

Step 5: Consider Additional Testing

Check if the school accepts updated test scores. Taking the other test (SAT if you submitted ACT) might help.

What to Avoid

Do not fill letters with every minor achievement. Admissions officers may find excessive self-promotion off-putting.

Timeline

Waitlist decisions can come from April through August. Some students have been admitted weeks after the school claimed to be done with their waitlist.

How DeepCampus Helps

Our application tracker helps you manage waitlist follow-ups and backup school deadlines.