Colleges continue to increase the use of waitlists in order to manage their enrollment. Formerly, the waitlist served as a safety net for colleges, assuring them of extra candidates if the number of students who accepted their offer of admission fell below their expectations.  Now, however, colleges appear to be using the waitlist as a way of increasing their yields and thus their rankings.

It has become pretty typical for a selective college that accepts 2,000 applicants in hopes of enrolling 500 students to offer another 2,000 well-qualified students places on the wait list.  Of these, a quarter are likely to accept a spot.  What should you do now if you are one of the hopeful applicants who has been waitlisted at your dream school?

First, you need to understand that this is not a denial of admission; instead, the college is letting you know that they consider you a good candidate and would like to accept you if room allows.  Since students on the waitlist are not ranked, you need to get the attention of admissions in order to be admitted.  How do you do that?

First, respond quickly affirming your continued interest in the college and your desire to remain on the waitlist.  Follow up with the admissions office in the manner the school requires to affirm your place on the waitlist. If this is your top choice for college, let the rep know.

Next, update your file with any additional awards, honors, new grades or experiences. 

Be prepared to make a quick decision on attending if you get an email or phone call offering you a place in the class.  Generally, colleges will expect a yes within 24-48 hours after offering you a place.  Only then will the offer become official.  If you do choose to attend Wait List U, you’ll need to withdraw your previous enrollment at your second choice college.  Be aware that you will probably forfeit any deposits you’ve paid to that institution.