8 04, 2025

How to Get Off the Harvard Waitlist

By |2025-04-08T12:03:45-04:00April 8th, 2025|College Admissions, Harvard, Ivy League, Ivy League Advice, Transfer, Transferring, Waitlisted, What Happens If You Get Waitlisted?|0 Comments

How to Get Off the Harvard Waitlist

How to get off the Harvard waitlist. You’re so close.  It’s right there yet still out of reach..how completely frustrating! Every year, thousands of high-achieving students apply to Harvard with dreams of joining the ranks of one of the most prestigious universities in the world. For some, the admissions decision isn’t a clear yes or no—it’s a spot on the waitlist. While it can feel like limbo, being waitlisted at Harvard is not the end of the road. In fact, it means you were strong enough to be seriously considered at one of the utmost TOP colleges in the country, and with the right steps, you might still earn your place.

Here’s how to increase your chances of getting off the Harvard waitlist.

  1. Understand What Being Waitlisted Means

Being waitlisted at Harvard means the admissions committee liked your application but couldn’t offer you a spot due to limited space, but you are still competitive at this very high level. They are basically holding your application in reserve in case any admitted student declines their offer..and yes, believe it or not, students do often decline Harvard’s offer, in favor of Stanford, or MIT, or Princeton, Cambridge or Oxford.  All of those schools compete for Harvard’s incoming accepted class. So, this is not a rejection—it’s a possibility.

Also know that if you got waitlisted at Harvard and you don’t get off the waitlist, you should seriously considering applying as a transfer student to a TOP Ivy League school next year.  Harvard has one of the lowest acceptance rates for transfer students, but transfer students do still get in. What is more likely though is that you get in as a transfer student to a different Ivy League college.

You’ve already proven you’re Ivy material. That waitlist spot actually means that you have a very good chance of going to Princeton, Columbia, Stanford or any of the other top schools as a transfer student next year.

But for now, what to do about that frustrating Harvard waitlist…

  1. Respond Promptly and Professionally

Once you receive your waitlist notification, you must opt in if you want to remain on the list. Respond promptly through your admissions portal, confirming your continued interest. This shows the admissions team that you’re still enthusiastic about Harvard.

Avoid the temptation to immediately flood the admissions office with emails or phone calls. The first step is simply saying yes—you’re still interested.

  1. Send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)

This is one of the most effective tools at your disposal. A well-written Letter of Continued Interest allows you to express your genuine desire to attend Harvard and update the admissions committee on any new developments in your academic or extracurricular life.

In your LOCI:

  • Reaffirm that Harvard is your top choice and you will attend if accepted.
  • Highlight any new awards, grades, leadership roles, or significant projects completed since you submitted your application.
  • Keep the tone respectful, mature, and enthusiastic—avoid sounding desperate or pushy.

Timing matters. Sending your LOCI within two weeks of receiving your waitlist notification is ideal, and a follow-up in late April or early May (just before decisions are finalized) can be appropriate if you have new updates.

  1. Update Harvard with New Achievements

If you’ve improved your grades or ranking, became Valedictorian, won a competition, completed an impressive project or research, published anything, or filled a patent, let Harvard know. Also let them know about your upcoming summer plans. These updates should be substantive and relevant—Harvard is looking for students who continue to excel.

  1. Stay in Touch with Your High School Counselor

Your school counselor can advocate on your behalf by reaching out to Harvard. A brief letter or phone call confirming your continued interest and any updates can carry weight, especially if the counselor has strong credibility or a history of past interactions with Harvard admissions.

  1. Avoid Overdoing It

While it’s important to express your interest, too much communication can work against you. Don’t bombard Harvard with emails, extra recommendation letters, or phone calls. A thoughtful LOCI and one or two key updates are usually enough.

  1. Be Ready for a Quick Decision

If a spot opens up, you might get a call or email offering you admission with a short window to accept. Make sure you’ve considered all your options and are genuinely prepared to attend Harvard if the opportunity arises.

  1. Plan for Plan B

While you’re on the waitlist, make sure to accept an offer from another college by May 1 to secure your place elsewhere. You can always withdraw later if you’re admitted to Harvard. This ensures you won’t be left without a college home come fall.

Final Thoughts

Getting off the waitlist at Harvard is difficult, but not impossible. The key is to stay positive, and proactive. Your continued effort demonstrates maturity and motivation—qualities that Harvard values deeply. If it doesn’t work out, remember: being waitlisted at Harvard already puts you in rare company, and there are still many paths to success, including the most recommended one: transferring, and I am always happy to have a free consultation.

Ultimately, your college journey is what you make of it—and Harvard is just one chapter among many that can lead to a fulfilling, impactful future.

Want help discussing your college options, writing your Letter of Continued Interest – the LOCI,  or working on your transfer strategy, or perhaps you’re still a high school student and want help with your essays. 

I’m a former Harvard admissions interviewer and a Harvard graduate and have been running my college admissions firm IVY LEAGUE ESSAY for the last 15 years out of NYC.

I work with students all over the country who are targeting the Ivy League, or Top 20 schools, and would be happy to speak to you about your future! 

Contact me today for a free consultation and get into the school of your dreams! www.IvyCollegeEssay.com

 

Want more free tips and advice? Check out my other blog articles, below:

  1. What Are My Chances of Getting Off Harvard’s Waitlist? 
  2. How to Write the LOCI = Letter of Continued Interest?
  3. What to Do If You’re Waitlisted?

 

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9 01, 2024

How to Write Harvard’s Transfer Essays

By |2024-01-09T13:07:58-05:00January 9th, 2024|Harvard, Ivy Leage Admissions, Ivy League, Ivy League Advice, Ivy League College, Transfer, Transferring|0 Comments

How to Write Harvard’s Transfer Essays

How to Write Harvard’s Transfer Essays – expert tips and advice from a former Harvard admissions interviewer and Harvard graduate. So, you want to try to get in to Harvard as a transfer student, do you?  It’s not impossible, but it is VERY competitive. Last year, on 15 students were admitted to Harvard University as transfer students.  You think that’s bad?  The year before is was 12.  That’s 12 students worldwide.  However, there is always hope as one of my students was one of those 15, and in previous years I’ve had others as well.

So, what does it actually take to get in as a Harvard transfer student?  The most important thing, outside your grades and letters of recommendation, is going to be your transfer essays and how you respond to the transfer application prompts.

I will go through them here now, one-by-one. Harvard is asking 2023-24 applicants to pen five short essays in response to the following prompts:

1. Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard?* (200 words)

    • Share a significant life experience that has shaped your identity.
    • Connect the lessons learned from this experience to how you will contribute to not only intellectual diversity, but the cultural community as a whole at Harvard.
    • Consider your potential impact on campus, such as applying leadership skills to various literary outlets if you’re so inclined, or celebrating your international identity within a specific club or organization.
    • More than anything, Harvard is looking for what makes you stand out and unique.

2. Briefly describe an intellectual experience that was important to you.* (200 words):

      • Showcase your passion for learning by describing a recent intellectual experience: something that made you think in a new and different way.  Something that expanded your horizons.
      • Discuss a class, seminar, book, or travel experience that left a lasting impact on you.
      • Reflect on how this experience has influenced your intellectual growth and curiosity.

3. Briefly describe any of your extracurricular activities, employment experience, travel, or family responsibilities that have shaped who you are.* (200 words):

    • Focus on one or two extracurricular activities that have significantly shaped your identity. Any more than that and your essay will get muddled.
    • Choose activities that haven’t been extensively covered elsewhere in your application. Each question or prompt should always be an opportunity to show the admission committee something NEW about yourself.  Repeating yourself in your applications will get you rejected!
    • Discuss the fundamental impact of the chosen activities on your understanding of yourself.

4. How do you hope to use your Harvard education in the future?* (200 words):

    • Envision your life 10 to 20 years after Harvard, and articulate your aspirations. The more detailed you can bet the better, though no one is going to hold you to what you say long-term.  What the school is looking for though are students who have a very driven, focused, ambitious plan…understanding, of course, that with the new input from college, and especially a community like Harvard, all plans can (and maybe even should) change.
    • Explain why Harvard is an essential step in achieving your long-term goals.
    • Reference specific programs, activities, or organizations at Harvard that align with your vision.

5. Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you.* (200 words):

    • This is the most creative of the questions, and should be a place where your personality really comes through. Create a list of various aspects about yourself that could interest roommates and try to stay away from “too much” pop culture. Some is fine, “too much” though is just that and doesn’t put you in a good light because remember, Harvard wants UNIQUE and if you’re doing and saying what every other teenager is doing and saying (i.e. pop culture) how unique really are you?  Just keep that in mind.
    • Choose three engaging and authentic facts that showcase different facets of your personality. More than that and you are NOT FOLLOWING DIRECTIONS!
    • Weave these facts into a narrative that gives admissions a glimpse into your casual and relatable side. They want to make sure you’re not the Unibomber (former Harvard student!), and that you are capable of making friends.

Remember throughout all of your transfer essays to tailor your responses to your unique experiences, aspirations, and personality. Be genuine, specific, and use your own voice to make your transfer application stand out.

Conclusion

Transferring to Harvard and learning how to write Harvard’s transfer esssys necessitates a strong strategic approach, and addressing the transfer essay prompts in the right way is a crucial step in the process.

Crafting thoughtful and well-researched responses that demonstrate your genuine interest in Harvard’s academic and extracurricular offerings showcases how you plan to take advantage of the opportunities Harvard makes available, contribute to the community, and overcome challenges.

The key is to present a compelling narrative that aligns your current experiences with what Harvard has to offer, making a strong case for why you are an ideal fit as a transfer student and why Harvard University should add you to their class. It’s hard, but not impossible. My Ivy League transfer students apply every year…and some of those get in. Best of luck!

Want more help with your Harvard transfer applications?  Contact me today for a free consultation at www.IvyCollegeEssay.com and get into the school of your dreams!

Check out my other blog articles, as well:

  1. How to Transfer to Columbia University
  2. What Each Ivy League School is Known For
  3. How to Get Into Yale

 

 

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5 01, 2024

How to Transfer to Columbia University

By |2024-01-20T11:35:15-05:00January 5th, 2024|Columbia, Ivy Leage Admissions, Transfer, Transferring|2 Comments

How to Transfer to Columbia University

How to transfer to Columbia?  Transferring to a college like Columbia is a hard yet rewarding undertaking. The process involves more than just maintaining a strong academic record; it requires the artful crafting of your Columbia transfer essays.

Columbia’s transfer admissions process is notably competitive, and success hinges on presenting a compelling case for why you belong at the school. In this article, I will delve into each Columbia transfer essay prompt and provide valuable insights on how to address each one effectively..

Essay Prompt 1: Why are you interested in transferring to Columbia University?

This pivotal essay prompt serves as a litmus test for your knowledge of Columbia’s distinctive academic and extracurricular offerings. Begin by immersing yourself in thorough research on Columbia’s programs, faculty, and campus culture. Demonstrating a nuanced understanding of what Columbia has to offer not only showcases genuine interest but also underscores your commitment. Delve into specific aspects that resonate with your academic and personal goals. Highlight renowned professors, unique research opportunities, or distinctive programs that set Columbia apart from your current institution.

 

It’s crucial to connect your current experiences with what Columbia offers. If you are pursuing a specific major, articulate how Columbia’s curriculum will amplify your knowledge and skills in that field. Avoid generic statements and be specific – the admissions committee seeks a thoughtful and well-researched response that goes beyond a surface-level interest in the university.

 

Essay Prompt 2: How will you take advantage of the academic opportunities at Columbia?

This prompt delves into your ability to envision yourself as an active and engaged member of the Columbia community. Begin by pinpointing specific academic resources, programs, or initiatives that align with your goals. Articulate how you plan to contribute to and benefit from these opportunities.

 

Highlight professors whose work you admire and whose classes you aspire to take. Shed light on any research opportunities or special projects at Columbia that are integral to your academic development. Express genuine enthusiasm for Columbia’s unique academic culture and elaborate on how it resonates with your learning style and aspirations.

 

Additionally, underscore any interdisciplinary aspects of Columbia that captivate you. Discuss your plans to explore courses beyond your major and integrate different academic perspectives. Columbia values students who are intellectually curious and open to diverse academic experiences.

 

Essay Prompt 3: How will you contribute to the Columbia community?

Columbia University places immense value on fostering a vibrant and diverse community. This essay prompt provides an opportunity to showcase your personality, interests, and extracurricular involvement. Begin by reflecting on your current contributions to your academic or local community. Then, explain how you envision extending these contributions to Columbia.

Discuss clubs, organizations, or community service initiatives that align with your passions, and detail how you plan to engage with them at Columbia. Emphasize any leadership roles or unique skills you bring to the community. Columbia seeks students who not only excel academically but also actively contribute to the broader campus environment.

 

Essay Prompt 4: Can you share a challenging situation you have encountered and how you dealt with it?

 

This essay prompt aims to assess your resilience, problem-solving skills, and self-awareness. Select a challenging situation that had a profound impact on your academic or personal life. Be transparent about the obstacles you faced and focus on how you overcame them.

Discuss the lessons learned from the experience and elucidate how it has shaped your character and aspirations. Admissions committees appreciate authenticity, so be genuine about your struggles and growth. Use this essay as an opportunity to demonstrate your maturity, self-reflection, and ability to transform challenges into valuable learning opportunities.

 

Conclusion

Transferring to Columbia University necessitates a strategic approach, and addressing the transfer essay prompts is a crucial step in the process. Craft thoughtful and well-researched responses that demonstrate your genuine interest in Columbia’s academic and extracurricular offerings. Showcase how you plan to take advantage of the opportunities available, contribute to the community, and overcome challenges. The key is to present a compelling narrative that aligns your current experiences with what Columbia has to offer, making a strong case for why you are an ideal fit for this prestigious institution. Best of luck!

 

Want more help with your college or Ivy League transfer applications?  Contact me today for a free consultation at www.IvyCollegeEssay.com and get into the school of your dreams!

Check out my other blog articles, as well:

  1. Should I Talk About Race in My Admissions Essay?
  2. What Each Ivy League School is Known For
  3. How to Get Into Yale
  4. New York City Colleges
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2 01, 2024

What Do Schools Look for in a Transfer Application?

By |2024-01-03T18:53:42-05:00January 2nd, 2024|Ivy Leage Admissions, Transfer, Transferring|0 Comments

What Do Schools Look for in a Transfer Application?

 

Introduction:

Transferring from one college to another is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and a well-crafted application. Whether you’re moving from a community college to a four-year university or seeking to get into the Ivy League, understanding what schools look for in a transfer application is crucial. This article explores the key factors that admissions committees typically consider when evaluating transfer applications.

  1. Academic Performance:

One of the primary factors that schools assess in a transfer application is the applicant’s academic performance. A strong academic record not only demonstrates a commitment to learning but also indicates the potential for success in a new academic environment. Admissions committees typically review your college transcripts, paying attention to your overall GPA as well as performance in major-related courses. Consistent academic excellence is likely to make a positive impression on the admissions team.  In other words, you don’t need a 4.0, but particularly when talking about a “Top 20” or Ivy League school (my speciality) you do need to have the highest grades you can get.

  1. Reason for Transfer:

Clearly articulating your reasons for seeking a transfer is essential in any application. Admissions committees want to understand why you’ve decided to leave your current university and why you believe their school is the right fit for you. Whether you’re pursuing specific academic programs, seeking a different campus environment, or aiming for better opportunities, you want to be transparent and genuine about your motivations, BUT — the Ivy League schools in particular are looking for students who have ACADEMIC or intellectual reasons for transferring.  Not liking your roommate, or wanting to be by the beach, or the desire to move from a big city to a more rural area (or vice-versa) is not going to get you in.

Also, try to avoid negative comments about your current or previous institution; instead, focus on the positive aspects that attract you to the prospective school.

  1. Personal Statement:

The personal statement is your opportunity to present a comprehensive picture of who you are as a student and individual, and is THE most important part of your transfer application.  Most schools now also have 4-5 supplemental questions as well, on top of the main transfer essay. Use this space to discuss your academic and personal journey, highlighting any challenges you’ve overcome and the lessons you’ve learned. Clearly convey your academic and career goals, and explain how the prospective school aligns with your aspirations. This is also a chance to showcase your writing skills and make a memorable impression on the admissions committee.

  1. Letters of Recommendation:

Letters of recommendation play a crucial role in the transfer application process. They provide insights into your character, work ethic, and potential for success in a new academic setting. Select recommenders who can speak to your academic abilities, personal qualities, and achievements. These individuals should include professors or coaches who know you well and can provide a positive and detailed recommendation. Ensure that your recommenders are familiar with the transfer process and the specific qualities the admissions committee is likely to look for, and you never want to tell the professor anything negative about the school you’re leaving (as it is obviously where they work!) instead, you want to focus on why the new school would simply be a better fit for you.

  1. Extracurricular Involvement:

While your primary focus should be on academic achievements, schools also consider your involvement in extracurricular activities. Participation in clubs, sports, volunteer work, or internships demonstrates your ability to balance academic and personal commitments. Highlight any leadership roles or special projects that showcase your initiative, teamwork, and commitment to making a positive impact both inside and outside the classroom.

  1. Fit with the School’s Culture and Values:

Admissions committees also assess whether your values, goals, and personality align with the culture of their institution. Research the prospective school’s mission, values, and academic offerings. Clearly express how the school’s environment and resources will contribute to your academic and personal growth. Demonstrating a genuine interest in the school’s unique attributes can significantly enhance your application.

  1. Any Additional Requirements:

Some schools may have specific requirements or supplemental materials for transfer applicants. These could include a portfolio for certain art programs, additional standardized test scores, or a writing sample. Pay close attention to the application instructions and ensure you fulfill all the requirements. Submitting a complete and well-prepared application package demonstrates your attention to detail and commitment to the transfer process. You always want to take the opportunity to tell a school more about yourself.  Always.

 Conclusion:

Successfully navigating the transfer application process requires a thoughtful approach and attention to detail. Admissions committees carefully evaluate academic performance, reasons for transfer, personal statements (transfer essays), letters of recommendation, extracurricular involvement, fit with the school’s culture, and any additional requirements. By presenting a comprehensive and compelling application that addresses these key factors, you can enhance your chances of a successful transfer and embark on a new chapter of academic and personal growth. Remember, each school has its unique criteria, so tailor your application to showcase how you are an ideal fit for the institution you aspire to join!

And, it IS possible to get into the Ivy League.

Want more help with your college or Ivy League transfer applications?  Contact me today for a free consultation at www.IvyCollegeEssay.com and get into the school of your dreams!

Check out my other blog articles, as well:

  1. How to Get Off Harvard’s Waitlist
  2. Want to Transfer to an Ivy League College — There’s Still Hope!
  3. The Best Ivy League College Admissions Blog

 

Or contact me here!

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17 08, 2021

Want to Transfer to an Ivy League? There’s still hope!

By |2022-10-03T13:52:07-04:00August 17th, 2021|College Admissions, Ivy League, Ivy League Advice, Ivy League College, Transfer|2 Comments

Sometimes you don’t get into your first or even second choice college when you apply to the Ivy Leagues or any elite Top 20 university. The top Ivies and colleges flooded with thousands of applications every year. And the most elite schools have very limited spots. It doesn’t mean you need to completely give up on your Ivy League dream. Though: you can always apply as a transfer student and give yourself a second chance to get in! Transferring to an Ivy League college would be great for you.

Here are some positives that you can take away from a perhaps delayed entrance into your dream school Ivy. Ivy League school tuition is typically more expensive. So one or two semesters at another college could help you save money in the long term. During your time at another college, you could also work to improve your grades. In case your GPA was a determining factor as to why you didn’t get in the first time around. Also, you could take the time your freshman year elsewhere to get a better understanding of what you want to study and why. All of these things could help create an even stronger application as a transfer applicant. They lead to acceptance into one of your top college choices!

Whereas, the number of transfers is actually easier to get in as a transfer student than as an incoming freshman if everything else lines up. Try to transfer to an Ivy League college which will help you in your career!

The first step: figure out why you were rejected so you can focus on steps that might improve your chances this year. If you decide to reapply – whether that’s improving your SAT or ACT scores, your GPA, or fine-tuning your extracurricular activities and interests. To make your transfer application stand out show you are working hard to constantly improve yourself and grow your horizons. Admission officers don’t want to see the same application that you originally submitted, and yes, most schools do keep files.

While half of the students I work with get into the Ivies right out of high school. About 50% of my students are transfer applicants. I can give you guidance and insights about all the things. I will help you with your school selection and work with you on the content of your transfer application. Plus, I will provide any additional information about the process that you as a transfer applicant might need.

Reach out today for a free consultation at: www.IvyCollegeEssay.com. Let me help you get into a great top college. If you were previously waitlisted or rejected try to achieve your Ivy League dreams!

Check out my other Ivy League college admission blog articles here, including: The Ivy League Essay That Will Get You Into Harvard.

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Navigate the highly competitive landscape of Ivy League admissions with my expert one-on-one guidance. As a Harvard grad and former Harvard admissions interviewer, I specialize in helping you to craft excellent Ivy League college essays that reflect your unique strengths and ambitions. With my experience in college essay consulting, including extensive work with transfer students, and Harvard transfer essays, in particular, alongside a full library of Ivy League acceptance essays and Ivy League essay examples that get results, you’ll be on the road to Ivy League success. I offer insights into Ivy League essay prompts, essay writing strategies, how to choose your Common App topic, and more. With Ivy College Essay, your journey to Ivy League college essays that truly work starts here.

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