Getting waitlisted by a college can feel like being stuck in limbo—you’re not in, but you’re also not out. While it’s natural to feel frustrated or uncertain, the key is to manage expectations and take smart, strategic steps forward. Here’s how to handle being waitlisted without unnecessary stress.

Check Your Chances (Reality Check Required!)

Before getting too invested in the idea of a waitlist acceptance, take a look at the numbers. Most colleges publish their waitlist statistics in their Common Data Set, which you can usually find with a quick Google search: “[College Name] Common Data Set”

Scroll to the section on waitlist admissions. Here’s what you’ll find:

  • How many students were placed on the waitlist? (Spoiler: It’s often a big number.)
  • How many students actually got off the waitlist and were offered admission? (At some schools, the answer is close to zero.)

If a college rarely pulls students from the waitlist, it’s best to assume that’s the case this year, too. While it’s fine to remain hopeful, don’t pin your future on a long shot.

Accept (or Decline) Your Spot on the Waitlist

If you’re still interested in attending the school, you need to officially accept your spot on the waitlist by following the instructions in your application portal.

  • Read the fine print. Some colleges require you to opt in to the waitlist—if you don’t, you won’t be considered.
  • Submit any requested materials. Some schools let you send an update with new grades, awards, or accomplishments. If they allow it, take advantage!
  • If you’re no longer interested, decline the waitlist spot. This helps clear space for other students and allows you to focus on your next steps.

Deposit at Another College (and Start Getting Excited About It!)

Even if you’d love to attend the waitlist school, you must commit to another college by the deposit deadline (usually May 1). You don’t want to end up with nowhere to go if the waitlist doesn’t work out.

Here’s how to shift your mindset:

  • See the positives. You applied to this school for a reason—remind yourself of what you liked about it.
  • Connect with future classmates. Join admitted student groups on social media and start meeting new people.
  • Imagine yourself there. Look at dorms, classes, clubs, and traditions to help you mentally invest in your future.

The sooner you embrace the college that accepted you, the less stressful the waitlist will feel.

Keep It in Perspective (It’s Not a Tragedy!)

A waitlist decision can be frustrating, but it’s not a rejection—it’s just a “maybe.” However, treating it like an acceptance-in-waiting can set you up for disappointment. The best way to handle it is to:

  • Stay open-minded. College is what you make of it—success and happiness aren’t tied to one specific school.
  • Recognize that you already got into great colleges. One school’s waitlist doesn’t define your worth or potential.
  • Remember, there’s life beyond the waitlist. Once you start at your chosen college, the waitlist school will likely become an afterthought.

Final Thoughts:

Being waitlisted doesn’t have to be stressful or heartbreaking. By checking the stats, following instructions, committing to another school, and keeping an open mind, you can move forward confidently—knowing that wherever you end up, you’ll have an amazing college experience.

So, accept the waitlist spot if you want, but don’t wait on the waitlist. Keep moving forward. Your future is bright no matter where you land!