Carefully read the deferral or the waitlist instructions from the college. They often will direct you on next steps. Be sure to follow their directions. In addition, you may want to submit a letter of continued interest. This is a letter to let the college know that you are still very interested in attending their school. It’s also your chance to let them know about any new accomplishments you’ve had in your senior year. Finally, you want to remind the college why you are a great fit for the college. 

The letter should be polite and personable. A good rule of thumb for length is one page. You will typically send this as an email to your local admissions representative unless the college provides a form.

Ideally, the bulk of your letter should cover your new accomplishments. Here are some questions to consider as you formulate your ideas:

ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

• Did your grades go up significantly—especially in rigorous coursework? 
• Did you receive an academic award? 
• Did you complete an independent study or compelling academic project related to your desired major? 
• Did you take a late standardized test after the deadline and your score increased?

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

• Were you selected for a significant leadership role? 
• Did you receive community recognition or an award for significant community service? 
• Did you complete a new independent service project that had a significant, positive impact? 
• Did you advance significantly in an activity (sport, music, theater, dance, robotics)?

Extenuating Circumstances

Did you or your family experience significant financial hardship, personal or medical issues?

The first step is what is your significant or compelling new information. It is critical that you provide details. For example, if you received all A’s this semester after being an A/B student. Explain how you achieved this. Don’t make the reader guess- fill in the blanks for them. You can include more than one item, like how you coordinated a study group to prepare for tests, but be careful to avoid a laundry list. Again, make sure these developments are “significant” and “compelling.” 

Second, explain why this information is important. How does this significant information provide evidence you will be a strong successful student? Share specific strategies that helped you raise your grades like how you attended your teacher’s tutoring/help sessions and came with a list of questions. 

What does it show about how you might impact the campus community? Like how the study group you created not only deepened your understanding of the material, but helped your fellow students too! 

Again, it is crucial to be specific. 



Finally, you can show a little love to the college. Remind them why you are a great fit for their campus and how you will make an impact on their campus home. And of course like all college essays, stay confident and positive.