What to do after regular decision results is one of the most common questions families ask.

So, Results Are In. Now What?

After all this waiting and anticipation, the results can feel so final.They may not be.

What Happens After Regular Decision Results Are Announced?

Whether you were admitted, waitlisted, or denied, there are still important next steps to take. How you respond matters.

If You Were Admitted

Yay! Congratulations! Take a moment to celebrate, but show some restraint in posting (and ask your parents to do the same). Many of your friends may be unhappy with their results, and it’s best not to rub it in their faces.Can you wait a beat before changing your Instagram bio to Harvard ’XX?

Engaging on Social Media

Check online to see if students are interacting and introducing themselves on your new university’s Facebook page or Instagram account. This is a great opportunity to make connections and even find a roommate. 

If You Were Waitlisted

Take a deep breath. It’s not over.

Follow the College’s Instructions

Find out what the college wants from you. Students should determine what the college requires, what’s appropriate to provide, and respect their rules. If a college specifically states that waitlisted students should not submit additional materials, do not send them. Students can negatively impact their chances by not following directions.

Send Mid-Year or Updated Grades

If applicable, ask your counselor to send your semester or mid-year grades. If you have been on an upward trajectory, the university may be waiting to see this.

Write a Letter of Continued Interest

Write a compelling letter stating that the school is still your first choice, if it truly is. Universities want to admit students whom they believe are likely to attend.

Include:

– Recent accomplishments since you applied  

– New activities or involvement  

– Continued enthusiasm for the school  

– Updates on your academic performance  

Check in With Your Counselor

Speak with your high school counselor.

– Have universities shared any insight or perspective?  

– Were there any red flags?  

Usually, there are not. It’s just the numbers. The fact that you were waitlisted suggests the university believes you are capable of doing the work.

Consider an Additional Recommendation

Ask your counselor if it would be appropriate to submit another letter of recommendation.

This could come from:

– A teacher  

– An outside recommender  

Triple Check for Errors

Before submitting anything:

– Make sure you are naming the correct school  

– Check for grammatical mistakes  

– Keep communication clean and professional  

If You Were Denied

We are so sorry. Eat a pint of ice cream. Lick your wounds. Take a walk.Then, gain some perspective. This is not a reflection of who you are as a person, your abilities, or your future success. Hold your head high. Be proud of who you are and all the challenges you have overcome to get to this point. This journey is hard. You are going to have a great life. Stay positive and push ahead.

A Final Thought

No matter your result, be proud of all that you have accomplished so far. The future is bright.