Getting placed on a waitlist can be frustrating, but it doesn't mean your chances are gone. Knowing how to effectively communicate your continued interest is key. This guide will walk you through how to write a waitlist follow up letter that can significantly boost your application and remind decision-makers why you're a strong candidate.
The Foundation: What to Include in Your Waitlist Follow Up
A well-crafted waitlist follow up letter is more than just a polite nudge. It's an opportunity to re-iterate your enthusiasm, provide new and relevant information, and demonstrate your ongoing commitment to the program or institution. The importance of a timely and professional follow up cannot be overstated. It shows initiative and a genuine desire to be accepted.
When composing your letter, consider the following essential components:
- Your Name and Contact Information
- The Date
- The Recipient's Name and Title (if known)
- The Institution/Program Name
- Your Application ID or Reference Number
- A Clear Subject Line
- A Polite Salutation
- A Statement of Continued Interest
- New Information (optional but recommended)
- A Professional Closing
Here's a structured approach to ensure you cover all bases:
- Express Gratitude: Start by thanking them for considering your initial application and for the opportunity to be on the waitlist.
- Reiterate Enthusiasm: Clearly state your continued strong interest in the specific program or institution.
- Provide Updates: This is your chance to share any new achievements, significant accomplishments, or relevant experiences since your original application. This could include awards, new skills learned, or impactful projects.
- Reinforce Fit: Briefly remind them why you are a good match for their program and how you will contribute.
- Keep it Concise: Respect their time. Aim for a single page or a brief email.
You might find it helpful to organize your thoughts using a table like this:
| Section | Purpose | Key Elements |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Express interest, thank them | Gratitude, application ID |
| Body | Provide updates, reinforce fit | New achievements, specific reasons for interest |
| Conclusion | Reiterate enthusiasm, polite closing | Final statement of interest, thank you |
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter When You Have New Achievements
Subject: Waitlist Follow Up - [Your Name] - Application ID: [Your Application ID]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Contact Person],
I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Program Name] at [University/Institution Name] for the upcoming [Term/Year]. I was delighted to learn that I have been placed on the waitlist and I remain incredibly enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your esteemed program.
Since submitting my application, I have achieved [mention a significant academic or professional achievement, e.g., received an award for my research project on X, successfully completed a challenging course in Y, or secured a relevant internship]. This experience has further solidified my interest in [mention a specific aspect of the program that aligns with your new achievement]. I am confident that my [mention relevant skills or qualities] would allow me to contribute meaningfully to your vibrant academic community.
Thank you again for your time and consideration. I eagerly await any further updates and remain committed to the possibility of studying at [University/Institution Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter to Reiterate Interest
Subject: Continued Interest - [Your Name] - Application ID: [Your Application ID]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Contact Person],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to reiterate my strong interest in the [Program Name] at [University/Institution Name] for the [Term/Year] intake. I was very pleased to be placed on the waitlist and wanted to express my continued enthusiasm for your program.
My initial application highlighted my passion for [mention a key area of interest], and since then, my commitment to this field has only grown. I have continued to engage with [mention relevant activities, e.g., industry news, academic journals, volunteer work related to the field] and have found myself increasingly drawn to the unique [mention a specific feature of the program, e.g., research opportunities, faculty expertise] offered by [University/Institution Name].
I am confident that my dedication and drive would make me a valuable member of your incoming class. Thank you for keeping my application under consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter After Receiving a Competing Offer
Subject: Waitlist Update & Competing Offer - [Your Name] - Application ID: [Your Application ID]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Contact Person],
I am writing to provide an update regarding my application for the [Program Name] at [University/Institution Name]. I was very happy to be placed on the waitlist and remain highly interested in your program.
Since my initial application, I have received an offer of admission from [Name of Other Institution] for a similar program. While I am grateful for this offer, [University/Institution Name]'s [mention a specific reason why you prefer their program, e.g., renowned faculty in X, unique curriculum, location] remains my top choice. I am hoping to hear a positive decision from you before I need to make a final commitment to another institution.
I would be delighted to discuss my application further if needed. Thank you for your continued consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter to Clarify a Specific Point
Subject: Clarification Request - [Your Name] - Application ID: [Your Application ID]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Contact Person],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my waitlisted application for the [Program Name] at [University/Institution Name] for the [Term/Year] academic year.
I wanted to take this opportunity to clarify a point in my original application. On page [X] of my personal statement, I discussed [briefly mention the topic]. Upon reflection, I wanted to add that [provide a concise clarification or additional detail that strengthens your point]. I believe this additional context further illustrates my [mention a relevant skill or quality].
Thank you for reviewing my application and for considering my clarification. I remain very interested in joining your program.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter to Reaffirm Your Fit
Subject: Reaffirming My Fit for [Program Name] - [Your Name] - Application ID: [Your Application ID]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Contact Person],
I am writing to you today as I remain on the waitlist for the [Program Name] at [University/Institution Name]. My interest in your program has only deepened since my initial application, and I wanted to take a moment to reaffirm why I believe I would be an excellent fit.
I am particularly drawn to [mention a specific aspect of the program, e.g., the program's emphasis on experiential learning, the opportunity to work with Professor X on Y, the interdisciplinary approach]. My own experiences in [mention relevant past experiences, e.g., leading student projects, volunteering in a related field, engaging in independent research] have equipped me with the skills and perspective to thrive in such an environment and to contribute positively to the learning community.
Thank you for considering my continued interest. I am eager for the possibility of contributing to [University/Institution Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter if Your Circumstances Have Changed Positively
Subject: Update on Application - Changed Circumstances - [Your Name] - Application ID: [Your Application ID]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Contact Person],
I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Program Name] at [University/Institution Name] and to share a significant positive change in my circumstances.
Since my waitlisted status, I have [explain the positive change, e.g., secured a promotion at my current job which has provided me with advanced skills in X, completed a significant personal project that has honed my abilities in Y, or overcome a personal challenge that has strengthened my resilience]. This development has further prepared me for the rigors of your [Program Name] and has provided me with new insights that I believe will be valuable to my studies.
I am incredibly excited about the possibility of joining your institution and am confident that these recent developments make me an even stronger candidate. Thank you for your continued consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter When Seeking More Information
Subject: Waitlist Inquiry - [Your Name] - Application ID: [Your Application ID]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Contact Person],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Program Name] at [University/Institution Name] and to express my continued interest in being considered from the waitlist.
As I continue to explore my options, I would be grateful if you could provide any updated information regarding the waitlist timeline or the general likelihood of acceptances from the waitlist this year. Understanding these factors would greatly assist me in my decision-making process.
Thank you for your time and for any information you can share. I remain very keen on the possibility of attending [University/Institution Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter to Offer Your Support
Subject: Offering Support - [Your Name] - Application ID: [Your Application ID]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Contact Person],
I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Program Name] at [University/Institution Name], for which I am currently on the waitlist. I wanted to express my continued enthusiasm for your program.
In addition to reiterating my strong interest, I wanted to offer my support in any capacity that might be helpful to the admissions committee during this busy period. Whether it involves volunteering for a specific task related to admissions or offering my perspective on a particular aspect of the applicant experience, I am eager to contribute.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I eagerly await any news regarding my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
How to Write a Waitlist Follow Up Letter to Express Gratitude for a Previous Conversation
Subject: Following Up After Our Conversation - [Your Name] - Application ID: [Your Application ID]
Dear [Admissions Committee/Specific Contact Person],
I hope you are having a productive week. I am writing to follow up on my waitlisted application for the [Program Name] at [University/Institution Name].
I truly appreciated our brief conversation on [Date of Conversation] regarding [briefly mention the topic of conversation]. Our discussion further solidified my desire to be a part of your esteemed program. I was particularly inspired by [mention something specific you learned or discussed].
Thank you again for your time and for the opportunity to discuss my application. I remain very hopeful about the possibility of joining your community.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
In conclusion, a waitlist follow-up letter is a powerful tool that can significantly influence your chances of acceptance. By approaching it strategically, including relevant updates, and maintaining a tone of respectful enthusiasm, you can effectively keep your application at the forefront of the admissions committee's mind. Remember to tailor each letter to your specific situation and to always proofread carefully before sending.