So, now you're getting some decisions. Let's talk about it.
Rejection
First: that sucks. And it's okay to take time and feel a little down about it, especially if it was your dream school. But consider:
- There are other ways you can still study at the school with higher education pathways. you can still get your masters, MBA, PhD, etc.
- Depending on the school, there are ways to get in through appeal. I know people who've gotten into UW, USC, UIUC, etc. through this pathway!
- You can still transfer to your dream school (but honestly, give the school you're at a real chance; it might be great for you!)
- It's easy to romanticize a school, but all schools are just schools. And you don't really know what environment will be the perfect fit for you, even if you THINK you do!
- I know this SUCKS to hear, but it is so true: rejection is redirection. you will find what you're looking for somewhere else.
A rejection at one school is not necessarily an indication that you'll be rejected at another. I know people rejected from Purdue who got into UT Austin Engineering OOS! Sometimes, it just means you didn't fit into the version of the class they were building. That's just luck!
Deferral
A deferral means the college is not accepting or rejecting you yet. They are moving your application into the regular decision pool and will look at it again later.
This can feel really frustrating because it is basically the admissions version of "we'll get back to you." But it is not a rejection. Some colleges accept most of their students after deferring them (ex, USC)!
If you get deferred, check whether the college allows or asks for a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI). Some schools want one. Some schools specifically do not. Follow the college's instructions.
A good LOCI usually includes: a short thank you, confirmation that you're still interested, any meaningful updates since you applied, and maybe one or two specific reasons the school is still a strong fit.
Make sure you send one to all schools that ask for one or are neutral, as sometimes, this becomes a filtering point for applicants!
Waitlists
A waitlist means the college might admit you later if they have space, but you should not count on it.
If you are waitlisted somewhere you still really care about, accept your spot on the waitlist and follow their instructions. If they allow a LOCI, send one. If they ask for updates, send meaningful updates. If they say not to send extra materials, do not send extra materials.
The most important thing is that you should emotionally and practically commit to one of the schools that actually accepted you. Put down a deposit somewhere you would be happy to attend. You can still hope for the waitlist, but do not let it stop you from getting excited about your real options.
Alternate pathways
Some colleges offer alternate pathways, like spring admission, first-semester-abroad programs, guaranteed transfer options, or other special entry plans.
These can be great opportunities, but read the details carefully. Ask: When would I actually start on campus? Would I graduate on time? Would I be in my intended major? Would housing, financial aid, or course registration work differently?
Do NOT treat these programs as "lesser" automatically. Some people end up loving them! Just make sure you understand what you are agreeing to.
Acceptances
First of all: congratulations!! You made it!
Once you have your options, try to compare them using things that will actually affect your life: cost, program strength, major flexibility, location, academic environment, career opportunities, social fit, housing, distance from home, and, genuinely, whether you can picture yourself there on a random Tuesday.
If possible, visit before committing. Talk to current students (I literally reached out to random people I followed on Instagram if I didn't know anyone). Watch Youtube videos or TikToks from the college. Look beyond admitted student marketing (lol). And pat yourself on the back :)
NOTE: If cost is a concern, reach out to the financial aid offices at your accepted universities. You might be able to negotiate a higher aid package!