College decision season can bring a mix of excitement, relief… and sometimes confusion. One outcome that often raises questions is being placed on a college waitlist, which an increasing number of colleges are doing.
If your student received a waitlist decision, don’t panic — this is not a rejection. In fact, many students are admitted from waitlists every year. The key is knowing what it means and how to respond strategically.
🎙️Listen to this conversation on Letters Of Continued Interest on the Tests and the Rest podcast.
📌 What Does It Mean to Be Waitlisted?
When a student is waitlisted, the college is essentially saying:
➡️ “We like your application, but we don’t currently have space available.”
Colleges use waitlists to manage enrollment numbers. They may admit students from the waitlist after May 1 (National Decision Day) once they know how many accepted students plan to enroll.
Important things parents should know:
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✔️ Your student is still being considered for admission
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✔️ Admission is not guaranteed — waitlist movement varies by year
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✔️ Some colleges admit many students from the waitlist; others admit few or none
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✔️ Decisions often come later in spring or even early summer
⚖️ Should Your Student Stay on the Waitlist?
The answer depends on how strongly your student wants to attend that school.
Encourage your student to ask:
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Is this still one of my top choices?
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Would I attend if admitted?
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Am I comfortable waiting without guarantees?
If the answer is yes — staying on the waitlist is worthwhile.
💡 Important: Students should still submit a deposit at another college by May 1 to secure a spot somewhere.
✉️ What Is a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)?
A Letter of Continued Interest is a short, professional message sent to the admissions office that:
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Reaffirms the student’s enthusiasm for the college
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Updates the school on new achievements or grades
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Demonstrates maturity and continued engagement
Think of it as a respectful reminder that your student is still very interested — and still growing.
🧠 What Makes a Strong LOCI?
A great letter is:
✔️ Positive and appreciative
✔️ Specific about why the college is a great fit
✔️ Updated with meaningful accomplishments
✔️ Concise (typically 1 page or less)
✔️ Professional in tone
📝 Suggested LOCI Structure
Here’s a simple framework students can follow:
1️⃣ Express Gratitude & Continued Interest
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Thank the admissions committee
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Clearly state continued interest in attending
Example:
Thank you for continuing to consider my application. I remain very enthusiastic about the opportunity to attend your university and would gladly accept an offer of admission if selected from the waitlist.
2️⃣ Explain Why the College Is a Great Fit
Encourage students to mention:
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Specific programs or majors
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Academic opportunities
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Campus culture or values
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Research, clubs, or internships
Specificity matters — avoid generic statements.
3️⃣ Share Meaningful Updates
Include new information since submitting the application:
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Improved grades or academic achievements
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Leadership roles
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Awards or recognitions
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New projects or community involvement
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Additional test scores (if stronger)
4️⃣ Close Professionally
End with gratitude and enthusiasm.
Example:
Thank you again for your time and consideration. I appreciate the opportunity to remain on the waitlist and hope to contribute to your campus community.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Sending multiple emails or repeated updates
❌ Sounding desperate or demanding
❌ Submitting long essays
❌ Including unrelated or minor updates
❌ Having parents write the letter (it should come from the student)
❤️ Encouragement for Parents
The waitlist process can feel uncertain — but it’s also a reminder that your student was very close to being admitted in the first round.
Regardless of the outcome, students will have strong options and opportunities ahead. The goal now is to stay proactive, positive, and strategic.
🎯 Need Help Crafting a Strong Letter of Continued Interest?
At Seeley Test Pros / LEAP, we help students:
✔️ Develop professional, compelling LOCIs
✔️ Highlight meaningful updates effectively
✔️ Communicate confidence and fit without sounding pushy
✔️ Navigate admissions decisions with clarity and strategy
If your student was waitlisted and you would like expert guidance, we invite you to schedule a free discovery call with our college advising team. Learn more here.
📍 Together, we’ll help your student turn a deferral into a second chance.
📞 Cleveland: 216-965-5162
📞 Cincinnati: 513-754-2240