College decisions season can be an emotional rollercoaster, especially when you’re waiting on responses from your top-choice schools. After months of applications, essays, test prep, and interviews, finding out you’ve been waitlisted can feel like being stuck in limbo. Not quite rejected, but not accepted either—it’s confusing and often frustrating.
Still, being placed on a college waitlist isn’t the end of your journey. In fact, it’s far from it. In 2025, as application numbers continue to climb and admit rates stay low, colleges are leaning more on their waitlists to manage enrollment. That means you still have a shot—and there are smart, strategic things you can do to improve your chances.
Let’s break down what waitlists really mean, how they’re different from deferrals, and what to do if you find yourself on one.
Understanding College Waitlists
A waitlist isn’t a rejection. It’s more like a “maybe, later.”
When a college places you on its waitlist, it’s saying that your application met the standards—but they’ve already offered spots to as many students as they can. If enough of those students decline their offer, the school may turn to the waitlist to fill remaining seats.
The tricky part is that waitlists are unpredictable. Some schools may pull dozens of students off the list, while others may only admit a handful—or none at all. Still, being on the waitlist means you’re in the running, and you can take steps to stand out.
Waitlist vs. Deferral: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to confuse being waitlisted with being deferred, but they’re very different scenarios.
A deferral happens when you apply early (either Early Decision or Early Action) and the school postpones making a final decision until the regular decision round. Your application will be reviewed again along with the regular pool.
A waitlist, on the other hand, usually comes after the regular decision round. It means your application has been fully reviewed, and you’ll only get an offer if space opens up.
Think of it this way:
A deferral gives you another chance for a fresh look in the next round.
A waitlist means the main round is over, and you’re on standby in case admitted students decline.
Four Steps to Take If You’ve Been Waitlisted
If one of your top schools places you on the waitlist, don’t panic. Instead, take control of what you can and make a strong case for your spot.
Step One: Accept the Waitlist Offer
This might seem obvious, but you typically need to confirm that you want to remain on the waitlist. Some colleges require you to respond online or through a portal by a specific deadline. If you’re still seriously interested, make sure to opt in promptly.
Step Two: Show That You’re All In
Admissions offices want to admit students who are likely to enroll. If this school is still your top choice, don’t play it cool—make that clear.
Here are a few ways to demonstrate your enthusiasm:
Attend virtual info sessions, webinars, or admitted student events (if allowed)
Visit campus if possible and safe
Contact your regional admissions officer to ask a thoughtful question or share an update
Stay engaged with the college through their official social media pages
Every interaction is a subtle reminder to the admissions team that you’re serious about attending.
Step Three: Send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)
This letter is your opportunity to remind the admissions team why you’re a great fit—and to share any updates since you submitted your application. A strong LOCI can go a long way.
You might include:
New academic achievements (like higher grades or test scores)
Awards, competitions, or leadership roles you’ve earned
Any new extracurricular or volunteer work
A personal note on why this college is still your first choice and how it aligns with your goals
Keep it focused and genuine. Colleges want to admit students who are not only qualified, but also clearly committed.
Step Four: Make a Backup Plan—and Stay Positive
While you’re hoping to get off the waitlist, make sure you accept an offer from another college you’ve been admitted to. Submit your deposit before the May 1st deadline so you secure a spot for the fall.
This doesn’t mean giving up hope—but it’s important to have a confirmed plan while you wait. Also consider:
Exploring transfer options in the future if you remain committed to your waitlist school
Embracing the opportunity ahead—your second-choice school might end up being the perfect fit
Colleges don’t define your future—you do. And sometimes, the school you didn’t expect becomes the one where you thrive.
Also See: Letters of Recommendation: Who and How to Ask in 2025