Admitted, Deferred, Waitlisted, or Rejected: Navigating College Admissions Decisions

Admitted, Deferred, Waitlisted, or Rejected: Navigating College Admissions Decisions

College applicants across the country are experiencing a mix of emotions as admissions decisions roll in—excitement, relief, disappointment, and anticipation. For some, dreams have come true, while others are processing what may feel like the biggest disappointment of their lives or feel like they are in limbo.

Parents can empower their teens by encouraging resilience. In other words, make college admissions conversations about opportunity, not failure. Helping teens flip the narrative to prioritize their worth over institutional priorities will equip them to deal with rejection in a healthy manner and mitigate self-destructive thought processes.

No matter where college-bound teens are in the college admissions process, now is the perfect time to optimistically move forward, explore options, and make the best choice for the future.

Twelve Strategic Steps to Deciding Where to Attend College

ONE: Rejected? Grieve—Then Move Forward

It’s natural to feel disappointed, but it’s important not to let a rejection define you. Colleges have complex priorities that don’t always align with applicants' strengths. Give yourself time to grieve as needed, then redirect your energy toward the exciting opportunities that are available. Acknowledge and process while being as objective as possible.

Expert Tip💡 For more information on why colleges reject strong applicants, read. Reasons Colleges Reject Outstanding Applicants & Ten Healthy Strategies to Process Rejection.

TWO: Flip the Narrative—Take Control 

Ask yourself, “Do you really want to attend a college that doesn’t prioritize you or recognize your potential?” Reclaim power by acknowledging and harnassing personal agency. 

Expert Tip💡Apopt a positive mindset and focus on future possibilities to fuel the determination to achieve your goals. 

THREE: Understand "Deferred" vs. "Waitlisted"

If you're still in limbo, make sure you know what it means. A deferral typically means the college will review your application again, while a waitlist spot means you will only be admitted if they have space after everyone who was admitted makes their choice. Look at the data to make an informed decision about whether to wait or move forward.

Expert Tip💡Look at the data to understand the chances of getting in. For more information, read Deferred vs. Waitlisted: Key Differences and What to Do Next.

FOUR: Check Email and Portals Regularly

Don’t miss important updates, news, and deadlines for admitted students. Colleges send critical updates, deadlines, and opportunities. Check email and portals regularly so nothing falls through the cracks.

Expert Tip💡Create a calendar alert reminding you to check email and portals at least once per week.

FIVE: Attend Admitted Student Events

Although you may have already visited the colleges, the lens through which the experience is viewed will be different knowing that you are in: seeing a school through the eyes of an accepted student is an entirely different experience. Embrace the excitement, meet future classmates, and envision your life on campus.

SIX: Weigh Your Options—Strategically

Strategy is choosing what you will and will not do and understanding why. Use what you know about yourself and your goals to determine which college will provide the springboard to propel you to your next step. For example, If you hope to attend medical school, make sure you attend a college where you can earn high grades in challenging science classes, conduct research, and feel confident that you will be prepared to be a compelling medical school candidate. If business is your likely path, attend a college with a business school that offers plentiful internship and networking opportunities. Likewise, if you want to be a teacher, ensure your college has an education school that will prepare you to meet state licensure requirements.

SEVEN: Compare Financial Aid Offers

Cost matters for many families. Evaluate your financial aid packages carefully to make the best financial decision for your future.

Expert Tip💡To better understand college financial aid award letters, read, Understanding and Evaluating a College Financial Award Letter in Five Simple Steps. To learn how to ask colleges for more financial aid, read Asking Colleges for More Money: Eight Steps of an Effective Appeals Process.

EIGHT: Make Your Choice and Submit Your Deposit

Once you’ve made your decision, submit your deposit. If you get off a waitlist and change your mind, you can update accordingly.

Expert Tip💡Deposits are nonrefundable.

NINE: Decline Other Offers

Be considerate. Taking the time to let colleges you are sure you will not attend that you won’t be attending opens up opportunities for others.

TEN: Connect with Your Future Classmates

Join your college’s official Class of 2029 Facebook, ZeeMe, or Discord group. Get to know your future classmates, make friends, and perhaps find a roommate. This is a great way to interact with and build excitement about your new community!

ELEVEN: Celebrate Your Accomplishments

Earning a high school diploma and being admitted to college are huge milestones—take a moment to acknowledge your hard work and celebrate your success!

Twelve: Finish High School Strong

Remember, college admissions are conditional—colleges expect you to maintain your academic performance. Keep up the momentum to ensure your second-semester grades reflect the student they accepted.

No matter where you land, you have the power to make the most of your college experience. If you have questions or need guidance in making a final decision, feel free to reach out at kathy@fineeducationalsolutions.com.