Admission Decisions - Admitted, Deferred, Waitlisted, Conditional, Denied
Whether it’s exciting news (admitted!) or a tough outcome (denied), knowing what each decision means will help you figure out your next steps.
Getting an answer back from a college is a big moment… but not all decisions are the same. Here are the most common decisions you’ll hear: admitted, deferred, waitlisted, conditional admission, denied.
Admitted
You’re in! The college is offering you a spot.
Next steps:
Celebrate—this is a huge accomplishment!
Review your financial aid package.
Decide if this is the right school for you and, if so, submit your deposit by the deadline.
Deferred
The college isn’t saying “yes”. But, they’re also not saying “no”. Your application has been moved from early admissions (Early Action and/or Early Decision) to the Regular Decision pool where it will be further evaluated.
Why it happens: They want to see more (e.g., senior grades) or compare you to the wider applicant pool.
Next steps:
Update your app—any new first semester grades, awards, or even a simple letter of continued interest.
Keep exploring other colleges and finalize those applications, in case you have to pursue a Plan B.
Waitlisted
You’re not admitted yet, but you could be offered a spot if space opens up.
Why it happens: Colleges use waitlists to manage enrollment numbers. Schools only have a certain number of spots available for incoming students due to availability of housing/dorm space, classroom sizes, etc… They offer admission to more students than they can actually receive, knowing that some – even though they were accepted – will choose to enroll elsewhere. Once the dust settles, they’ll work through the waitlist to offer any remaining spots. This usually happens late in the year–think May/June.
Next steps:
Decide if you want to stay on the waitlist (it’s optional!).
Submit a letter of interest if the college allows it.
Wait.
Conditional Admission
You’re accepted, but there are strings attached (e.g., completing certain classes, hitting GPA targets).
Why it happens: The college wants assurance you’ll meet specific academic standards or other requirements.
Next steps:
Understand the conditions clearly and make a plan to meet them.
Stay in touch with the admissions office if you have questions.
Denied
:(. The college decided not to admit you at this time.
Why it happens: The applicant pool was super competitive, or the school just wasn’t the right fit.
Next steps:
This is tough, but it’s not the end of the road.
Focus on other schools where you’ve been admitted or are waiting to hear back.
Tips for Navigating Decisions
Review all decision letters carefully.
If admitted, compare financial aid offers and visit campuses, if possible, to help you decide.
If deferred, submit updated materials and complete other school’s regular decision applications.
If waitlisted, decide if you’ll stay on the list and, if so, send a letter of interest.
If conditionally admitted, ensure you meet all specified requirements.
If denied, focus on your other great options.
Submit deposits to your chosen school by the deadline.
And be honest with yourself. If you’re unsure about a decision, talk it through with a counselor, parent, or trusted friend.