What is the College Waitlist & What You Can Do Now?

The college admissions process can be a rollercoaster, and if your teen has been placed on a waitlist, you’re likely feeling a mix of frustration and uncertainty. But here’s the truth: A waitlist decision is not a rejection. It’s an opportunity.

Colleges use waitlists to manage their enrollment numbers. They admit a certain number of students but know that not all will accept their offer. A waitlist allows them to fill any gaps left by students who decide to go elsewhere. So while it’s not an immediate ‘yes,’ it’s also not a definitive ‘no.’ Your teen still has a chance—but only if they take the right steps.

Step 1: Respond to the Waitlist Offer Immediately

Colleges won’t assume your teen wants to remain on the waitlist unless they explicitly say so. The first step is to respond to the waitlist offer and confirm their continued interest. Some schools have strict deadlines for this, so act fast.

If your teen is still interested in the school, ensure they accept the waitlist position as soon as possible. If they’re no longer interested, declining allows the school to focus on other applicants.

Step 2: Write a Strong Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)

A well-crafted Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) is your teen’s best chance to remind the admissions office why they belong at that school. This letter should:

• Reaffirm their strong desire to attend
• Highlight any new achievements since their application
• Emphasize what they would contribute to campus life

Colleges want students who genuinely want to be there. A thoughtful, persuasive LOCI can make all the difference.

Step 3: Stay Academically & Extracurricularly Engaged

The worst thing your teen can do after being waitlisted is to assume their senior year performance no longer matters. Colleges want to see that students remain dedicated to their academics and extracurricular commitments.

If your teen’s grades slip, it could hurt their chances of getting off the waitlist. Encourage them to finish strong and even consider taking on additional leadership roles in their activities.

Step 4: Secure Another College Option

While waiting, your teen must commit to another college by submitting an enrollment deposit. This ensures they have a spot somewhere, no matter what happens with the waitlist.

Many students who are waitlisted ultimately end up falling in love with their backup school. If the waitlist spot comes through later, they can decide at that point whether to switch.

The Bottom Line: Be Proactive, Not Passive

A waitlist decision doesn’t mean your teen is out of the running—it means they need a strategy. By responding promptly, writing a compelling LOCI, staying engaged, and securing another option, they can position themselves for success.

Want expert guidance? We’ve helped countless families develop the right strategy for college admissions. Let’s create a plan for your teen together.

Book a free strategy session today: www.callwithsaa.com