Next Steps After Getting Waitlisted

By Lindsey • March 21, 2025 • BS/MD Admissions Consulting Waitlist White Coat Club Podcast

Being waitlisted can be a frustrating and confusing experience. It means that you haven’t been accepted, but you also haven’t been rejected—you’re in a sort of admissions limbo. Some schools use waitlists more than others, and some rarely admit students from them. Even highly competitive programs, such as BS/MD programs, maintain waitlists. Schools like Drexel, UMKC, AMC, and Brooklyn College have all been known to waitlist applicants, and in some cases, you might even find yourself waitlisted for an interview (such as at Drexel). Ultimately, whether you get off the waitlist depends on factors like the number of students who decline their offers and the school’s specific admission needs that year. To learn more about what to do, check out our podcast on “Next Steps After Getting Waitlisted.”

What to Do If You’re Waitlisted

1. Read the Waitlist Letter Carefully

Your first step should be to thoroughly review the notification letter from the school. Each institution has its own policies regarding waitlisted students, and some require you to confirm your interest in staying on the list. Pay attention to deadlines, specific instructions, and any additional steps the school suggests.

2. Decide If You Want to Stay on the Waitlist

Before committing to staying on the waitlist, consider the likelihood of being admitted. While it’s often difficult to predict, researching past data about the school’s waitlist movement can provide some insight. Additionally, factor in other offers you may have received, financial aid considerations, and whether you truly want to wait or move forward with another option.

3. Write a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) (If Allowed)

If the school accepts additional materials, you can submit a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) to reaffirm your enthusiasm for the institution. This letter should:

  • Express your strong interest in attending.

  • Highlight any new achievements (such as improved grades, awards, or extracurricular accomplishments) since your initial application.

  • Explain why the school remains your top choice.

  • Be professional and concise—keep it to one page.

Some schools also allow additional letters of recommendation. If permitted, a well-crafted letter from a teacher, counselor, or mentor who can provide new insights about your qualifications may help strengthen your application.

4. Make Alternative Plans

While it’s okay to hope for an acceptance, you must be proactive about securing a college spot elsewhere.

  • Submit a deposit to another school by the deadline to ensure you have a place to enroll in the fall.

  • If you’re set on attending a specific institution that waitlisted you, explore transfer options for the future.

  • Keep an open mind about the opportunities at the school where you do commit—many students end up loving a school that wasn’t their first choice.

What NOT to Do If You’re Waitlisted

1. Don’t Panic or Take It Personally

Being waitlisted isn’t a reflection of your worth or abilities. Admissions decisions are influenced by many factors beyond your control, including institutional priorities and available space. Remember, being waitlisted means you were a strong candidate—just not one of the first chosen for admission.

2. Don’t Harass the Admissions Office

While it’s okay to confirm your interest and submit a LOCI if allowed, you should not bombard the admissions office with emails or calls. Parents should also avoid excessive contact with the school. Repeated inquiries won’t improve your chances and may annoy the admissions team.

3. Don’t Send Unrequested Materials

If a school explicitly states that they do not accept additional materials, respect their policy. Sending extra documents could make you seem like you don’t follow directions, which won’t help your case.

4. Don’t Pin All Your Hopes on Getting Off the Waitlist

While some students do get accepted from the waitlist, many do not. It’s important to move forward and get excited about the options available to you. If you do get the call with an acceptance, it’s a bonus—but don’t put your future on hold waiting for it.

Final Thoughts

Being waitlisted can be disappointing, but it’s not the end of the road. Handle the situation strategically by following the school’s instructions, expressing continued interest professionally, and making backup plans. No matter where you ultimately enroll, your college experience is what you make of it, and you’ll have the opportunity to thrive wherever you go!