Curious about UCSD Waitlist

Hey, I'm starting to get nervous about the idea of getting waitlisted at UCSD. Anyone got any wisdom on how the UCSD waiting list works, or on how I can increase my chances of getting off the waitlist?

The waitlist process can seem a bit opaque, but it really isn't that complicated once you understand the basics. UCSD, like many schools, maintains a waitlist to fill spots that become available after they've sent out their initial round of acceptances. The first thing you'll want to do is to actually accept a spot on the waitlist if you are put on it. It's an optional step, after all.

As for increasing your chances of getting off the waitlist, your options are somewhat limited. The most important thing you can do is to continue performing well academically—it's the key factor when the admissions team looks at waitlisted students one more time before final decisions. You might also consider submitting a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI), in which you express your ongoing passion for UCSD and update the admissions team on any new accomplishments or experiences since you submitted your original application.

Something to note is UCSD cannot provide any information on your ranking on the waitlist, as the school states it does not rank their waitlist. They also do not have data available on how many students, if any, were admitted off the waitlist in previous years as the numbers fluctuate significantly each year.

One last thing, be sure to accept an offer of admission from another school you'd be happy to attend. Even though getting off the waitlist is possible, it's not a guaranteed outcome and you need to ensure you have a solid plan in place.

Hope this helps, and good luck!