Spencer Lanoue
Getting waitlisted can be a rollercoaster of emotions. You're not rejected, but you're not quite in either. So, what do you do next? Writing a waitlist letter is your chance to make a compelling case for why you deserve a spot. Let's break down how you can craft a letter that stands out and nudges you closer to that acceptance letter.
Why a Waitlist Letter Matters
A waitlist letter is your opportunity to reaffirm your interest in the program or institution that has placed you on hold. It's a chance to update them on any new accomplishments or relevant experiences since you submitted your application. Think of it as a way to reintroduce yourself with a fresh perspective, showing how you've grown and how you continue to be an excellent fit for their community.
Beyond just updating them, a well-written waitlist letter can demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm. Admissions committees appreciate applicants who are proactive and passionate about their institution. It's not just about saying "I'm still interested," but rather "Here's why I'm even more interested now, and how I've become a better candidate since my application."
Gathering Your Thoughts: What to Include
Before you put pen to paper—or fingers to keyboard—take a moment to brainstorm. What's changed since you sent in your application? Have you won any awards, completed any significant projects, or taken on new responsibilities? This is your chance to showcase progress.
- Academic Updates: Improved grades or new coursework that aligns with your desired program.
- Achievements: Any awards or recognitions that bolster your application.
- Extracurriculars: New leadership roles or projects that highlight your skills.
- Personal Growth: Insights or experiences that show how you've matured or developed.
Once you have a list, prioritize the most impactful updates. Remember, quality over quantity. You want to make sure that every point you include adds value to your application.
Structuring Your Waitlist Letter
Like any good piece of writing, your waitlist letter should have a clear structure. This helps keep your message focused and makes it easier for the reader to digest.
Introduction
Start by expressing gratitude. Thank the admissions committee for considering your application and placing you on the waitlist. Keep it brief but genuine.
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Person's Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for being placed on the waitlist for [Program Name] at [Institution Name].
Body
This is where you share your updates and continued interest. Break this section into paragraphs, each focusing on a different point. Use clear, concise language to convey your message effectively.
I am writing to reaffirm my strong interest in [Program Name] and to update you on recent developments in my academic and extracurricular pursuits. Since submitting my application, I have [mention any academic achievements or improvements]. Additionally, I have taken on [new responsibilities or roles] which have further prepared me for the challenges and opportunities at [Institution Name].
Conclusion
Wrap up your letter by reiterating your enthusiasm and thanking them once again for their consideration. It's also a good idea to express your willingness to provide any additional information they might need.
Thank you once again for considering my application. I remain deeply committed to joining [Institution Name] and contributing to its vibrant community. Please let me know if there's any additional information I can provide.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Polishing Your Letter
Once you've drafted your letter, it's time to refine it. Here are some tips to make sure your letter shines:
- Be Concise: Admissions committees are busy, so keep your letter to one page.
- Use Professional Language: Maintain a formal tone, but be sure it's also approachable and sincere.
- Proofread: Typos and grammatical errors can distract from your message. Consider using tools like Spell to help catch any errors and polish your writing.
- Seek Feedback: Have a trusted friend, mentor, or teacher review your letter. A fresh pair of eyes can catch mistakes and offer valuable feedback.
Timing Is Everything
When it comes to submitting your waitlist letter, timing can be crucial. You want to send your letter while you're still fresh in the admissions committee's mind. Typically, sending your letter within a few weeks of receiving your waitlist notification is a good window. This shows that you're proactive but also thoughtful.
Keep in mind that admissions cycles can vary, so it's worth checking if the institution has specific guidelines on when they prefer to receive updates. Some schools might even specify this in the waitlist notification email, so be sure to read any correspondence carefully.
Personalizing Your Approach
While it can be tempting to draft a generic letter and send it to multiple institutions, personalization is key. Tailor each letter to the specific program and institution. Mention specific aspects of the program that excite you or align with your goals. This not only shows that you're genuinely interested but also that you've done your homework.
For example, if a particular faculty member's research aligns with your interests, mention this in your letter. If the program offers unique opportunities, such as study abroad or special projects, highlight why these are particularly appealing to you.
What Not to Include
While it's important to share updates and express enthusiasm, there are a few things you should avoid:
- Don't Rehash Your Application: Avoid repeating information that was in your original application. Focus on new developments.
- Don't Badger: Be respectful of their decision-making process. Avoid sending multiple letters unless you have significant new information to share.
- Don't Make Demands: Maintain a tone of gratitude and respect. You're asking for consideration, not demanding it.
Examples of Effective Waitlist Letters
Seeing examples can often clarify what works and what doesn't. Here's a sample waitlist letter that effectively conveys updates and enthusiasm:
Dear Admissions Committee,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for being placed on the waitlist for the Bachelor of Science in Biology program at XYZ University.
I am writing to reaffirm my strong interest in your program and to update you on recent developments in my academic and extracurricular pursuits. Since submitting my application, I have been recognized as the top student in my Advanced Biology course, further solidifying my passion and aptitude for this field. Additionally, I have taken on a leadership role in the Environmental Club at my school, where I spearheaded a successful campaign to reduce plastic waste on campus.
Your program's focus on research and hands-on learning is particularly appealing to me, and I am eager to contribute to and learn from the vibrant community at XYZ University. Thank you once again for considering my application. I remain deeply committed to joining XYZ University and contributing to its academic community. Please let me know if there's any additional information I can provide.
Warm regards,
Jane Doe
Notice how Jane not only updates the committee on her achievements but also aligns them with the values and opportunities at XYZ University. This demonstrates her fit and genuine interest in the program.
Using Spell to Enhance Your Writing
Crafting a waitlist letter can feel daunting, especially if you're not sure where to start or how to word things just right. This is where Spell can come in handy. Spell is an AI-powered document editor that can help you draft, refine, and polish your letter efficiently. With its intuitive interface, Spell allows you to focus more on the content of your letter rather than getting bogged down by formatting or minor errors.
By simply describing what you want to convey, Spell can generate a high-quality first draft in seconds. You can then use natural language prompts to refine and edit your document, ensuring that your waitlist letter is polished and professional. This not only saves time but also helps you maintain the right tone and clarity throughout your writing.
Final Thoughts
A well-crafted waitlist letter can make a real difference in your application outcome. By focusing on updates, expressing genuine enthusiasm, and maintaining a professional tone, you can significantly boost your chances of moving from the waitlist to acceptance. And remember, tools like Spell can be invaluable in helping you draft and perfect your letter, turning what could be hours of work into just minutes. Good luck!
