Waitlisted? Here’s How to Handle It and Move Forward

Getting waitlisted can be frustrating—you’re not rejected, but you’re not in either. It’s easy to feel stuck, wondering what if?  However, the best way to handle a waitlist decision is to follow the school’s instructions, do what you can, and then mentally move on. Your future is bright! 

Here’s how to approach being waitlisted with the right mindset.

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1. Follow the College’s Instructions Exactly

If you still want to be considered, check what the college requires. Some schools ask you to confirm your spot on the waitlist, while others automatically keep you on it.

Action Steps:

✅ Opt in if required.

✅ Submit a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) if the school allows it.

✅ Provide updates on new achievements (but only if the school permits them).

✅ Avoid excessive follow-ups—one strong letter is enough.

Once you’ve done what’s required, let it go and focus on your next steps.

2. Don’t Wait Around—Commit to a College That Accepted You

A waitlist spot is not a guarantee of admission, and many colleges take very few students off their waitlists. You must commit to a school that accepted you by May 1 to secure your future. Now is the time to lean to your “YES” schools.

Instead of obsessing over the waitlist school(s), get excited about where you are admitted. Every college has opportunities for success—you just have to take advantage of them.

Mindset Shift:

❌ “I’m just waiting to see if I get in.” 

✅ “I’m going to start preparing for my next adventure at a school that wants me.”

3. Get Excited About Your Future

It’s easy to idealize a waitlist school, but the truth is, any school can be amazing if you make the most of it. Shift your energy toward embracing your next steps.

Ways to Move Forward:

• Join social media groups for admitted students.

• Register and attend admitted students’ days and events.

• Research clubs, programs, and opportunities at your accepted schools.

• Plan your dorm setup and start meeting future classmates.

Many students end up loving a school that wasn’t their initial first choice, and even if offered a spot from a waitlist school, they say no in favor of their new top pick.

4. If You Get Off the Waitlist, Great! If Not, That’s Okay Too.

Waitlist decisions often come late (sometimes even in the summer). If you get accepted and still want to attend, great! If not, you’ll already be mentally committed to your chosen school.

No matter where you go, your success is determined by your effort, not just the school name on your diploma.

Final Thoughts

Being waitlisted is tough, but the best thing you can do is follow the process, then move on. Focus on the schools that have already accepted you and start getting excited about your future. As they say, love the schools that love you back! Wherever you go, you’ll have incredible opportunities—because you create them.

Do you need more advice on how to handle a waitlist decision or with writing a letter of continued interest? Drop a comment below—we’d love to help!