Sharing advice for students who have been deferred or waitlisted.

Deferred Students

“Deferred” means the college has not completed a review of your application and is postponing its decision to a later date. The student should communicate with the Admissions Office regarding the next steps and what if any additional information can be submitted-don’t assume. Understand and follow the school’s policies and guidelines regarding the process. It is really best to ask questions about their policy prior to and/or during the admissions process. If you contact the admissions office, be polite in your communications with them.

Strengthen your application by submitting the following:

• A letter of interest explaining why you feel the school is a good match for you.
• First-semester grades, and updated test scores.
• Additional letters of recommendation if required.
• Any additional extracurricular or volunteer activities.
• Improved second-semester GPA.
• Find out if you will have access to institutional scholarships.

Waitlisted Students

• Determine if being on the waitlist is something you really want to do.
• Develop a pros and cons list.
• If possible, find out your placement on the list.
• Establish a timeline-determine how long you are willing to remain on the list.
• Improve your academics.
• Submit a letter of interest.
• Consider options for enrollment as a transfer student.
• Submit a deposit to your backup school.
• Find out if you will have access to institutional scholarships.

Being deferred or waitlisted is not the end of the world.  It means you have been asked to wait a little longer.  If it’s a school you really want to attend, then be honest with yourself about how long you want to be “on hold” and make sure you have a plan B.