If you were waitlisted at a college that you would like to attend, you can appeal the decision, provided the college will accept an appeal letter. Research the college’s process for submitting an appeal. Some have a form on their website. Some accept a letter, and some state that they do not accept any appeals. Be aware that the majority of appeals do not result in an acceptance, but it’s worth trying if you feel that you have a strong case to present.
What Not to Say in An Appeal Letter
The letter needs to be upbeat and positive, and not have an angry or complaining tone. Do not say the decision was unfair, or that you think the admissions team has made a mistake.
What to Include in the Appeal Letter
In the appeal letter, you need to provide the admissions team with new information about yourself in order to convince them to re-consider your application. This information should be something that occurred after you submitted your application such as winning an award, placing well in a competition, improved SAT or ACT scores, improved grades, or an athletic achievement.
If the college encourages you to send a recommendation from a teacher, be sure to do that.
Also, make sure the college received your test scores, transcripts, and other required materials. If you were denied admission because something wasn’t sent, then include in the appeal letter, that you will be sending that information.
Who to Send the Appeal Letter to
Send the appeal to the admissions person who signed your denial letter, an admissions rep you met, and/or your region’s admissions rep as well as anyone else you met, such as the head of the department you hope to be a part of.
When to Send the Appeal Letter
Try to send the appeal letter very soon after having been denied admission. This allows you to possibly receive a final decision from the school with enough time to solidify your decision of what school you will attend by the May 1 National Decision Day.
Get Help Writing an Appeal Letter for College Admissions
If you need help writing your appeal letter for a college or university, please contact us. We will work with you to brainstorm your letter and provide revisions and edits to get it ready for submittal.
