<p>So I've been reading about the Harvard waitlist, since I am on it and still would like to go to Harvard. First, it appears that Harvard doesn't publish how many it waitlists (or maybe they do and I just can find the number - if you know, please tell me) - as such, I don't really know if I am just a drop in a five thousand person bucket, or a one thousand person one. It doesn't help that usually only 50 or so get off the waitlist each year, with some years none getting off.</p>
<p>Now, other universities of Harvard's caliber seem to waitlist about 1000 students, and Harvard says that about 2/3 of applicants accept places on its waitlist. Some years over 150 waitlisted people have been extended offers: do the math and it seems that in certain years the chance of getting off is over 20%. So there is still hope (though last year suggests that the hope is misplaced). In any case, I could get admitted to the class of 2019 with a z-list offer.</p>
<p>So what should I do after accepting my place on the waitlist? Write a letter to Harvard stating my continued interest, that Harvard remains my number one choice? Should I mention other places where I've been accepted (Vanderbilt w/ full tuition, Duke)? Ask if they want any additional material such as a letter of recommendation from another teacher, or from my research mentor? Should I do anything quirky?</p>
<p>I qualified for the National Chemistry Olympiad this year, so I guess I should mention that as well. Do you think qualifying for the study camp or going to the international competition could be a game-changer?</p>
<p>Not likely to get off the WL, but if you don’t want any regrets send a brief but impeccably written letter of intent mentioning any new accomplishments and how much you love H. Don’t do anything quirky or mention other offers by name (tacky). They’re not going to ask for additional documents. Most likely they’ll just glance at your letter and put it in a file they’ll never open again. If you can be persistent in a charming way, then do so. I knew some smooth operator types that dropped off LOI in person so they could chat up the admission staff. Some people have this ability, while most of us just come off as irritating and obnoxious. If you’re in the latter, more common category, well, best not push too hard and you can always apply as a transfer.</p>
<p>Send a letter updating them on your recent grades, new accomplishments, and how Harvard is still your top choice. Penn’s waitlist asked for the letter to be under 2 pages; check to see if Harvard has a similar restriction. You should be able to fit enough info in that length</p>
<p>Go ahead and send the ^^^above suggested letter, then spend time falling in love with Vanderbilt and Duke. Chances are extremely high you will be at one of those locations, and have a wonderful time. </p>
<p>Transfer possibilities are even more rare than WL offerings, so do not bank on those. Embrace your known choices, work hard, and if you find yourself with stellar stats after 3 or 4 years, try the Ivies for grad school.</p>
<p>Good lord, definitely keep it under 2 pages whether Harvard says to or not. Demonstrate your good judgment and respect for the busy officers’ time. I can’t imagine what you could say to help your case that wouldn’t fit into one page.</p>
<p>^^agree with above…but, I would like to remind everyone…Harvard and its peers DO NOT WANT to go to their waitlist if at all possible…because it means TOO many are choosing to go somewhere else…</p>