Written by Amanda, University of Pennsylvania

After you hit "submit" on your Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED) applications, the next step is often the hardest: waiting for a decision. It can be nerve-wracking, and you might be tempted to keep checking your status or even reach out to the admissions office. Instead of focusing on things you can't control, like when the decision comes, use this time wisely and focus on what you can control. Here's how to manage the waiting period without completely stressing yourself out! 

Don't Contact Admissions Offices 

It’s totally normal to feel anxious about your application, but contacting the admissions office won't help you get an answer faster. They have a lot of applications to go through, and calling or emailing them might make you feel more anxious without speeding things up. Remember, they'll contact you when the time is right, so trust the process. 

Focus on What You Can Control 

You can’t control how fast a school processes your application, but you can control your mindset and how you spend your time while you wait. Instead of worrying about the result, focus on what’s within your power right now: 

1. Work on Regular Decision Applications: If you applied EA or ED, start preparing your applications for Regular Decision schools. Don’t wait until the last minute; getting a head start now will make things less stressful later. Plus, even if you get into your top choice, you’ll be ready if things don’t go as planned! 

2. Keep Up with Schoolwork: Colleges still care about your grades. By focusing on your classes, you'll make sure that nothing slips while waiting to hear back. It also gives you something productive to focus on, rather than stressing about what’s out of your hands. 

Do Things That Help You Relax 

Waiting can cause stress, but you can do plenty of small things to feel better while you wait. Try activities that help you relax and take your mind off college for a bit: 

1. Get Active: Exercise in any capacity can help clear your mind and release stress. Try a sport, go to the gym, or just take a stroll outside to break up your day. 

2. Read a Book or Watch Something Fun: Getting lost in a good book, movie, or TV show is a great way to escape your worries for a while. Try something lighthearted or engaging to take your mind off admissions. 

3. Spend Time with Friends: It’s easy to get wrapped up in thinking about college, but hanging out with your friends and doing something fun together can help you feel more balanced and less anxious. 

Avoid Constantly Checking Your Status

It’s tempting to check your application portal every day to see if there’s an update, but doing that will only add to your stress. Instead, set a specific time once a week to check your status. This way, you can save your energy and focus on other productive and enjoyable activities. 

Work on a Personal Project 

Now that you have a little more free time, it’s a great chance to focus on something you enjoy. If there’s a hobby or project you’ve been meaning to start, now’s the time! Whether it’s working on a new skill, creating content for a YouTube channel, learning how to code, or diving into a craft like painting or knitting, use this time for something fun and productive. Not only will it take your mind off things, but it also shows colleges that you’re using your time well. 

Keep a Routine 

One way to avoid feeling overwhelmed is by sticking to a routine. Get up at the same time each day, make a plan for what you’ll do, whether that’s schoolwork, hanging out with friends, or a creative project, and do your best to stick to it. A routine will help you feel more in control during this uncertain time! 

Take Care of Yourself 

Waiting can be stressful, so remember to take care of your mental and physical health. Get enough sleep, eat well, and make sure to spend time doing things you enjoy. It’s okay to feel anxious, but taking care of yourself will help you manage that anxiety. 

Balance Worry and Realism 

It’s totally normal to worry about the outcome of your application. You’ve put in a lot of effort, and the uncertainty can be tough. Instead of trying to push those worries away, acknowledge them and balance them with realism. It’s okay to feel nervous; it shows that you care about the outcome, but try not to let it take over and distract you from other important things in your life, like school, hobbies, or spending time with friends and family. Remind yourself that worrying won’t change the outcome. At the same time, it’s helpful to think about what you’ll do next, regardless of the result. 

If you get in, great! If not, that’s okay too. There are many paths to success, and one decision doesn’t define your future. Have a plan for what comes next, whether it’s focusing on Regular Decision schools or thinking about gap year options, so you can feel more prepared, no matter what happens. 

Talk to Someone 

Whether it’s your friends, family, or a school counselor, talking about how you’re feeling can help ease the pressure. Others are likely going through the same thing and sharing your thoughts can make you feel less alone. It’s okay to feel anxious or nervous, and having a support system can make it easier. 

Moving Forward While Waiting

The waiting period after submitting your EA or ED application doesn’t have to be stressful. By focusing on what you can control, like starting your Regular Decision applications, keeping up with schoolwork, and practicing self-care, you can make the most of this time. Remember, it’s okay to feel worried, but having a plan and taking care of yourself will help you stay calm and prepared for whatever comes next!