Accepted, Deferred, Waitlisted, or Rejected from College: Now What?

Twelve Strategic Steps to Guide Juniors in Choosing Where to Attend College

ONE: If Rejected, Grieve and Regroup

Acknowledge and process but be as objective as possible. Regroup and leave what wasn’t meant to be in the rearview mirror. For more information on why colleges reject strong applicants, read Reasons Colleges Reject Competitive Candidates and 8 Healthy Strategies to Deal with Rejection.

TWO: Flip the Narrative

Ask yourself, “do you really want to attend a college that doesn’t prioritize you?” Take back control of your process by reclaiming your agency. Armed with a positive mindset, focus on possibility by using rejection to fuel the determination to achieve your goals. 

THREE: Understand the Difference Between “Deferred” and “Waitlisted” 

Look at the data to understand the chances of getting in. For more information, read Deferred or Waitlisted? What is the Difference? What Can You Do?

FOUR: Check Email and Portals Regularly

Don’t miss important updates, news, and deadlines for admitted students.

FIVE: Attend Admitted Student Events

Take advantage of opportunities to learn more about the colleges that accepted you. Although you may have already visited the colleges, the lens through which you view the experience will be different knowing that you are in. 

SIX: Weigh Your Options

Use what you know about yourself and your goals to determine which college will provide you with the springboard to propel you to your next step. For example, if you want to earn a business degree, attend a college with a business school. If you want to attend medical school, make sure you attend a college where you can earn high grades in challenging science classes. 

SEVEN: Compare Financial Aid Awards

Compare the cost of each. For more information, read Four Steps to Evaluating a College Financial Award Letter.

EIGHT: Make a Choice and Pay the Deposit

Deposit to one institution. Later, if you are admitted to an institution that deferred or waitlisted you, you can deposit there if you choose.

NINE: Decline Remaining Offers

Letting the other colleges know your decision allows them to offer your unused spot to someone else. 

TEN: Join a Facebook Group for the Class of 2027

Get to know your future classmates, and perhaps find a roommate.

ELEVEN: Celebrate 🎉🎉

You should be proud of yourself! 

TWELVE: Finish High School on a Strong Note

Remember, a college acceptance is conditional and can be rescinded. Ensure your second-semester grades reflect the student they accepted.

For more information on how to weigh your college options or anything else related to the college admissions process, please reach out at kathy@fineeducationalsolutions.com.