<p>WaitingGirl, I don’t mean to be unkind, but have you looked at any previous threads before posting this? I just scolded someone for scolding someone else who posted the same thing as you, because at least 10 other people posted it about 10 minutes ago. Now I begin to sympathize with them. I know the admissons process tends to stress everyone out, but I think you could gain some valuable information by looking at the other threads. However, while I’m commenting, I’d like to add some input, if I may.
I personally agree with pittsburgher that it would do more harm than good to ask the reason why you are on the Wait List. You could always question after your final descision is made, but right now, you really don’t need to know this information, as there is no use crying over spilt milk. Below I’ve added an email my family recieved from Mr. Diffley, regarding the Choate waitlist. You probably recieved it as well…</p>
<p>How does the Wait List work?</p>
<p>As we hear from students who are admitted, we begin to see the class take shape. As the class takes shape, we also begin to see who from the Wait List would best complete that class. This is why we don’t number or order the Wait List; until we see who is enrolling, we can’t know who might fit best. </p>
<p>Does Choate always go to the Wait List?</p>
<p>Typically, we do. The challenge is that we don’t know if it will be boarding boys, day girls, 11th grade, 9th grade, etc. We might go to the Wait List for several students in one grade, but none in another. There are years when there is no or very little movement to the Wait List because more accepted students enroll; and of course, when fewer accepted students enroll at Choate it gives us more opportunity to go to the Wait List. It can be quite unpredictable. </p>
<p>When might we know something? </p>
<p>As April 10 approaches (the reply date for admitted students), we will know a lot more about our enrollment situation. While you can send updated grades or information before the 10th, there will be very little happening until April 10 draws near. It is around that time that we evaluate if we have space and if we do, whom we’ll offer admission. Again, we’ll be looking for the applicants that best round out the class. This is an important discussion point with your child. It is not simply a matter of being the “best student” on the Wait List etc. If we do have the opportunity to offer admission, it will be by phone from an admission officer. </p>
<p>What if I applied for financial aid?</p>
<p>Funding creates another variable. Unless we have additional funds to offer, this becomes an obstacle. To offer financial aid to a Wait-Listed candidate, we would need enough money to “come back to us”—that is, admitted applicants with financial aid would have to enroll elsewhere and return our budget to positive territory. This can be stressful and trying at times. I appeal to parents to manage expectations and realities for your son or daughter in this regard as well.</p>