Waiting List Confusion

Applying to College
1

OK, so I got wait listed to three schools that are pretty on top of my list and I have a few questions regarding this list. First of all, how does it really work? Do I have to send in my deposit for a school that I have already applied to by May 1, and then wait to hear back from the waitlisted schools? If I do get off the waitlist, then do I ask to take back the previous deposit I made and make one for the waitlist school? This is the one big question that I am really confused about as I thought that when I make a deposit, that means I have committed to going to that school. I had no idea that you can take it back?

And as for my second question, it’s more specific regarding Carnegie Mellon’s waiting list. So I’m apparently on their “priority” waiting list, so does that mean I have a better chance of being admitted that those on their regular one? How much of a better chance? And if I do get admitted, does that mean I have to go there since they make me pay a deposit after 72 hours of being notified? Please let me know! I am desperately in need.

2

You need to make a deposit to a school that has accepted you by May 1. If after May 1 you are accepted off the wait list at another school you would rather attend you make a deposit to the new school, and contact the first school to let them know you will not be attending. You can ask for a refund of your deposit, but most schools will not refund, so you would lose your deposit.

I do not know whether priority wait list is the only wait list at CMU or not. If you are admitted off the wait list CMU will give you 72 hours to make a decision, but they cannot make you attend.

3

@KatMT‌ thank you so much!!!

4

Also, check on housing at the schools you are accepted to. Some schools assign housing on a first come first serve basis so if you wait til May 1 to accept there may not be much left. It varies from school to school.