How to Handle College Admissions Decisions: Accepted, Rejected, or Waitlisted
Handling College Admission Decisions
When you finally send out your application, worrying about the admission decision you’ll receive is often pushed to the back of your mind. While everyone hopes for an acceptance letter, it's essential to prepare for all possible outcomes, including rejection or being waitlisted. This preparation can help you manage your emotions and plan your next steps effectively.
What You'll Find in This Article
- How to Understand College Admissions Decisions
- What to Do If Your College Application is Accepted
- What to Do If Your College Application is Rejected
- What to Do If Your College Application is Waitlisted
- College Admissions are Just the First Step In A Long Journey
Understanding College Admissions Decisions
After conquering the lengthy and complex college application process, it’s time to wait for a decision. There are three main types of admissions decisions, plus a fourth for early decision applications:
- Accepted: You've been granted admission. Your next steps include deciding whether to accept or reject the offer, reviewing financial aid, and celebrating.
- Rejected: You haven’t been granted admission. You'll need to consider other options and plan your next steps.
- Waitlisted: Your application is on a waiting list. Colleges may turn to this list if accepted students do not enroll. You'll need to plan the rest of your admission journey.
- Deferred (Early Decision/Action): Your application shows promise but will be reconsidered during the regular decision round.
Regardless of the outcome, there are always ways to handle admissions decisions positively.
What to Do If Your College Application Is Accepted
Get Excited!
Getting into college is a significant achievement. Reflect on your hard work and share the news with family, friends, teachers, and counselors. Celebrate your accomplishment and schedule a visit to see the college as an incoming student.
Consider Your Options
After the initial excitement, think about your next steps. Will you wait for other decisions or withdraw other applications? If this is your dream school, withdrawing other applications might be the best choice. Otherwise, wait for all decisions before making a final choice.
Review Financial Aid Options
It's crucial to review your financial aid options as soon as you're admitted. Contact the financial aid office and develop a plan to pay for college to avoid future financial stress.
Consider a Gap Year
A meaningful gap year can broaden your horizons and give you valuable experiences outside the classroom. Whether through gap year programs, travel, or local experiences, ensure you approach it with a productive mindset.
Respond to Your New School
After weighing all factors, respond to your acceptance. Follow the steps outlined in your admissions letter, submit your acceptance and deposit, and prepare for enrollment.
What to Do If Your College Application Is Rejected
Be Kind to Yourself
A rejection letter can be tough, but remember that many students face rejection. Admissions decisions are not personal and do not define your potential. Take a break if needed and allow yourself to process your emotions.
Consider Your Options
If this college was your top choice, focus on the other colleges on your list. If you have other acceptance letters, revisit them to remind yourself of your options.
Focus on Your Second Choice
If you have a second-choice school, take the time to familiarize yourself with it. Don't rush this process; instead, learn about what the school offers and get excited about it.
Find Alternative Routes
Consider reapplying to your dream school in the future. Whether through a gap year or transferring after attending another college, keep your ultimate goal in mind and stay prepared.
What to Do If Your College Application Is Waitlisted
Make a Decision
Evaluate your commitment to the school and decide whether to accept or decline the waitlist position. Consider the competitiveness of the admissions and your other options.
Develop a Plan
If you accept the waitlist position, develop a plan for the interim. List your accepted applications and determine how to spend the waiting period productively.
Focus on Your Grades
Improving your grades is one of the few areas you can control at this stage. High grades can enhance your chances of admission across the board.
Show Your Commitment
Demonstrate your interest in the school by scheduling a campus tour, requesting an alumni interview, or interacting at college fairs. Always follow the college’s guidelines and communicate politely with the admissions office.
Admissions Are Just the First Step in a Long Journey
Receiving an acceptance letter marks the beginning of your college journey. Waitlisted and rejected applications are also part of your story and shouldn't be a source of shame. College admissions are competitive, especially at prestigious schools.
For assistance with your college essays, check out Admit AI, which provides automatic feedback to help write essays that will get you accepted.
That Way, You’ll Be College-Bound In No Time!
By preparing for all possible outcomes and following these steps, you'll be well on your way to starting your college journey, no matter the decisions you receive.