Include this in my appeal letter?

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of California - Santa Barbara
1

I am currently writing an appeal letter to UCSB (waitlisted). In my appeal letter, I wrote: “One of the reasons I believe I was initially waitlisted was due to my test scores.” From there I talk about how I took 10+ practice tests to improve my score but wasn’t able to reach my goal of 32 (I got a 28 which isn’t bad but it’s below average for UCSB). Basically, I’m saying that I tried my best and I want them to see that. My conclusion sentence for this paragraph is " I am an extremely dedicated student, which I believe is reflected in my grades. Thus, I hope you will not view this as an academic weakness, but rather a strength in my work ethic and dedication to my studies."

Is this unnecessary/irrelevant to include? I didn’t have any SAT subject tests on my application so this was the only test score they received. I had very good ECs, essays, and an above-average GPA so I feel like I was waitlisted due to my test score. In my appeal, I talk about other things such as recent awards/accomplishments and family circumstances. Should I focus on this more and just scrap the whole test-taking paragraph all together?

2

You aren’t writing an appeal letter, you writing a letter of continued interest about remaining on the wait list and your interest in UCSB. If they are your first choice, tell them that. Inform them of any accomplishments, awards, ECs that have occurred since you’ve completed your application. Personally I would not highlight being unable to raise your ACT score.

3

Don’t mention the 10 practice tests. It just confirms you topped out. Better to leave open the possibility that you were simply unable to retest. Focus on your more recent accomplishments and the idea that this is your first choice college.

4

Thank you for the feedback! I will definitely make some revisions.

5

Is there a difference between a letter of continued interest and an appeal?

6

UCSB does not accept letters of continued interest nor considers an applicants level of interest in the admission process. If you are waitlisted, then opting into the waitlist shows your interest.

If you are appealing, I agree with @Groundwork2022 and @momofsenior1, you do not want to draw attention to your ACT score. You want to show UCSB that you are a much stronger applicant than your original application shows so you need to demonstrate how you are a strong applicant post application for your appeal to be valid.

7

can you appeal if you are rejected?

8

yes