What to Do if You Haven't Heard Back: Understanding the College Admissions Timeline

Written by Amanda, University of Pennsylvania

Waiting to hear back from colleges can be stressful, especially when it feels like everyone else is receiving their decisions. Don’t panic! There are reasons why decisions might be delayed, and there are helpful steps you can take (and things you should avoid) while you wait. Here’s what you need to know! 

Why Haven’t You Heard Back Yet? 

Colleges don’t all follow the same schedule, and there are many reasons decisions can take time: 

● Lots of Applications: Colleges get thousands of applications, and reviewing them all carefully takes quite some time. This means that even well-prepared applications can sometimes be delayed as admissions teams review every detail thoroughly! 

● Extra Reviews: Some schools have committees that take multiple rounds to decide, especially for competitive programs. These extra reviews ensure that each candidate is evaluated from various perspectives, which can take additional time! 

● Missing Documents: If something such as a transcript or recommendation letter is missing, it can delay your decision. Colleges typically need to receive all required materials before making a final decision, so any missing document can extend the timeline! 

● Rolling Admissions: If the school reviews applications as they receive them (this is called "rolling admissions"), the timing of your decision depends on when you submitted your application. Students who applied earlier will typically hear back sooner than those who applied later! 

● Waitlists: If you’re waitlisted, you might not get an answer until the college knows how many students accept their first round of offers. This process can take weeks or even months as the college evaluates how many students decline their initial offer! 

What Can You Do While You Wait? 

Check Your Application Portal: Log in to your college’s application system and make sure everything is marked as “received.” Missing documents like transcripts or recommendation letters can delay your application. 

Focus on School: Keep doing your best in classes! Colleges might check your mid-year grades, and staying involved in extracurricular activities shows you’re still focused, committed, and working hard. 

Be Prepared for All Outcomes: While you wait, it’s a great time to start planning for all possibilities. Look into financial aid options, research and apply for scholarships, and explore the other schools on your list. Preparing now can help you feel more confident and ready for whatever decisions come your way!

Patience is Key!: Only reach out to the admissions office if it’s absolutely necessary, like if you notice something important is missing from your application (such as a transcript or recommendation letter) or if you have a significant update to share (such as winning a big award or achieving a major accomplishment). Too many emails or calls can leave a negative impression on admissions officers! 

What NOT to Do! 

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others: It’s natural to compare yourself to others, especially during this stressful time, but try not to let it overwhelm you! Everyone hears back at different times, and just because a friend or classmate got their decision doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with your application! 

Don’t Spam the Admissions Office: Avoid sending too many emails or updates unless they’re absolutely necessary, like correcting a mistake or sharing a major new achievement. Sending frequent messages won’t speed up the process and might leave a less-than-great impression on admissions officers! 

Don’t Post Complaints Online: If you’re feeling frustrated, it’s okay to vent; just make sure you’re talking to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or counselor, instead of posting about it on social media. Admissions officers might come across your posts and hurt your chances! 

How to Stay Calm While Waiting 

Waiting is tough, and it’s completely normal to feel stressed, but try to focus on what you can control and take things one step at a time! Here are some ways to stay focused and grounded:

● Work on scholarships or other opportunities. 

● Stay active in clubs, sports, or hobbies. 

● Spend time with friends and enjoy your senior year! 

Remember: A delay doesn’t mean a rejection. Colleges just need time to carefully review applications! 

Understand the Waiting Game! 

Colleges take time to make thoughtful decisions, so try not to worry if you haven’t heard back yet. Keep checking your application portal, stay focused on school, and plan for different possibilities. Patience and a positive attitude will help you through this process!

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