Cornell Waitlist

Does anyone have experience being waitlisted at Cornell? What's the process like, and is there anything I can do to increase my chances of getting in off the waitlist? Thanks in advance!

First off, congratulations on being waitlisted at Cornell! Although it's not an acceptance, it does indicate that the admissions committee saw a lot of strengths in your application. Now let's discuss the process and how you might improve your chances of getting in off the waitlist.

Once you have confirmed your spot on the waitlist, the waiting game begins. You will be informed if a spot becomes available for you, typically after May 1st when students must commit to their schools. The timeline for hearing back can vary and may extend into the summer months. Keep in mind that the number of students admitted from the waitlist can fluctuate significantly depending on the year and the number of accepted students who choose to enroll.

While you're waiting, there are a few steps you can take to improve your chances:

1. Update your application: If you have any significant new accomplishments or updates since you submitted your application, now is the time to share them. This could include awards, improved grades, new leadership roles, or exciting extracurricular achievements. Reach out to the admissions office and inform them about these updates.

2. Write a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI): A well-crafted LOCI can help demonstrate your enthusiasm for the university and reiterate why you believe Cornell would be the best fit for you academically and personally. This is also your chance to express any unique aspects of your background that would contribute to the campus community. Keep the letter concise and specific, showing your genuine interest in attending Cornell if accepted.

3. Maintain your strong academic performance: Keep working hard in school and maintain (or even improve) your GPA. Admissions officers want to see consistency and academic growth. If you do get admitted off the waitlist, you want to have a strong academic record.

4. Stay involved in extracurricular activities: Continue to be actively engaged in activities that align with your passions and interests, demonstrating your dedication and highlighting the unique perspectives and skills you would bring to campus.

Please remember that admission from the waitlist is not guaranteed. It's a smart idea to accept an offer from another school and explore financial aid opportunities in parallel. If you do get admitted off the waitlist at Cornell, you can always change your enrollment decision. Best of luck, and I hope this information helps!