I Was Deferred or Waitlisted - Now What?

After waiting and waiting for college admissions decisions, students often eagerly click on their admissions update only to discover that their application has been deferred or waitlisted, leading to even more waiting. Deferrals and waitlist decisions are increasingly common as colleges thoughtfully shape their incoming classes from ever-growing pools of highly-qualified applicants.

The admissions process is already an emotional rollercoaster, and receiving an answer that’s neither “yes” nor “no” can be incredibly frustrating. If you find yourself in this situation, give yourself a few days to process and reflect before taking any action. The first step is to understand the nature of the decision.

A deferral is essentially like pressing “pause” on an application submitted via early decision or early action. The college isn’t ready to make a final decision, so it moves the application to the regular decision pool for further consideration. A deferral could mean that the college is waiting to see a student’s first semester grades, did not have time to review the application, or wants to evaluate the application in the context of the larger applicant pool. Some schools defer all students not admitted in the early rounds while other schools routinely defer small numbers, preferring instead to admit or deny the majority of early applicants. 

Being placed on a waitlist typically happens during the regular decision process, but early applicants at some schools may also be placed directly on a waitlist. It means the college has determined that the applicant is a strong candidate but lacks room in the incoming class. The waitlist functions more as a “pool” than a list because students are not waitlisted in sequential order. After the college reviews its yield (the percentage of admitted students who enroll), it may offer spots to waitlisted students to round out the incoming class.

Here are actionable steps you can potentially take in the face of a deferral or waitlist offer:

1️⃣ Reflect on Your Interest Level

• Consider whether this school is still a top choice for you. Focus your efforts on schools where you genuinely see yourself thriving, and avoid chasing acceptances.

2️⃣ Carefully Read Your Decision Letter

• The deferral or waitlist letter often contains specific instructions, which may include submitting additional information or confirming your spot on the waitlist. Importantly, the college also may instruct you to refrain from certain actions. Be sure to follow the instructions!  

3️⃣ Reach Out to The College’s Representative for Your Area

• If permitted, the student (not parents), may send a brief email to the college’s representative assigned to the student’s geographic area. In the email, students can do the following:
  • Express gratitude for the continued consideration.
  • Show enthusiasm and reiterate interest in the college.
  • Politely inquire about steps that might strengthen the application.
  • State that the college is the student’s first choice—only if true.

4️⃣ Submit a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)

A LOCI is a brief, upbeat letter that reinforces a student’s desire to attend a university and highlights recent accomplishments since the application was submitted. Here’s what to include:

• Gratitude: Thank the college for continuing to consider your application.
• Personalization: Mention specific reasons why that college appeals to you.
• Updates: Share any significant achievements since you applied, such as awards, leadership roles, or improved grades.
• Commitment: If the college is your first choice, state that you will attend if admitted.

Instead of accepting LOCIs, many colleges offer students an opportunity to submit an update via a text box in their admissions portal. Be sure to follow the college’s procedures and preferred manner of submission.

5️⃣ Seek Advocacy

• Reach out to your school counselor/advisor, principal, or a trusted recommender. If they have a relationship with the college, they may be able to advocate on your behalf.

6️⃣ Submit Updates (If Required or Allowed)

• Provide any additional materials the college permits or requires, including:
  • Updated Grades 
  • New, Higher Test Scores

7️⃣ Stay Organized and Respect Guidelines

• If the college requests regular updates or check-ins, set reminders to follow through. Adhere to communication preferences and instructions outlined by the admissions office.

Keep in mind that a deferral or waitlist decision is not a no—it’s an invitation to continue the relationship with the college. By staying positive, following instructions, and taking proactive steps, you can increase your chances of earning a spot.

While a deferral or waitlist decision is not a no, it’s also not a yes. Treat it as an opportunity to keep an open mind and evaluate your other options. Every school offers unique opportunities, and being deferred or waitlisted by a top choice may cast other schools in a new, more favorable light. Ultimately, the goal of this process is to end up at one school that’s a great fit for you.