The college admissions process is full of highs and lows, and for many students, receiving a waitlist or deferral decision can feel like an ambiguous middle ground. While it may not be the immediate acceptance you hoped for, being waitlisted or deferred still means you have a shot at getting into your desired school. The key is to understand what these decisions mean and take the right steps to improve your chances of admission.

Understanding Waitlists and Deferrals

Before taking action, it’s essential to understand the difference between being waitlisted and being deferred.

• Waitlisted: This means the college has finished reviewing your application, but they are unable to offer you a spot at the moment. If spots become available after admitted students decline their offers, the school may offer you admission. Being on a waitlist does not guarantee admission, but it does keep you in the running.
• Deferred: If you applied through an early decision or early action process and were deferred, it means that your application will be reconsidered during the regular decision cycle. Unlike being waitlisted, this means you are still actively in the mix and have a chance to be admitted with the next round of applicants.

Now that you understand these terms, let’s go over what you can do to maximize your chances of getting in.

What to Do If You’re Waitlisted

1. Decide Whether You Want to Stay on the Waitlist

Not all students want to remain on the waitlist, especially if they have already received acceptances from other schools they are excited about. If you choose to stay on the waitlist, follow the school’s instructions to confirm your spot.

2. Send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)

A LOCI is a short, well-crafted letter expressing your ongoing enthusiasm for the school and highlighting any new achievements since submitting your application. Keep it professional and concise while reaffirming why the school is the right fit for you.

3. Update Your Application with New Information

If you have received any new awards, higher test scores, or significant academic or extracurricular achievements, inform the admissions office. Demonstrating continued growth and improvement can work in your favor.

4. Maintain Strong Academic Performance

Colleges want to see that you are continuing to excel in your coursework. If you slack off in your senior year, it could hurt your chances of being admitted off the waitlist.

5. Secure Additional Recommendations (If Allowed)

Some schools allow or encourage additional recommendation letters. If so, consider asking a teacher, coach, or mentor who can provide fresh insights into your character and accomplishments.

6. Consider Other Options

Since waitlist acceptances are not guaranteed, make sure you have a backup plan. Accept an offer from another school before the deposit deadline to secure your spot somewhere.

What to Do If You’re Deferred

1. Read the College’s Deferral Policy Carefully

Some colleges explicitly state what you should or should not do after being deferred. Follow their guidelines carefully.

2. Send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)

Like with a waitlist, expressing your commitment and enthusiasm for the school through a LOCI can help reinforce your interest.

3. Provide Updated Achievements

If you’ve earned new awards, taken on leadership roles, improved your grades, or achieved higher test scores, share that information with the admissions office.

4. Consider Submitting Additional Materials

Some schools allow additional recommendation letters or supplementary materials (such as an updated portfolio or personal statement). If permitted, sending these can strengthen your application.

5. Stay Engaged and Keep Your Grades Up

Deferred applicants are still being considered, so maintaining strong academic performance is crucial. Colleges will look at your mid-year grades, so aim for excellence in your senior year.

6. Apply to More Schools

Since a deferral means you won’t have a final decision until the regular decision round, consider applying to additional schools to expand your options.

Conclusion

Being waitlisted or deferred can be frustrating, but it is not the end of the road. By taking proactive steps, you can improve your chances of eventually receiving an acceptance letter. Stay positive, demonstrate continued interest, and keep striving for excellence—your efforts will pay off, whether at your top-choice school or another great institution.