If you or your child is stuck on a college’s waiting list it can feel like an endless limbo. You’re not in, but you’re not quite out either. Instead of just waiting to get word from on high about whether you’ll ultimately find a place at the school of your dreams, there are a few steps you can take.

First, understand how many others are on the wait list. Large selective colleges like Stanford and Yale can put as many as 1,000 applicants on the wait list.

Second, evaluate yourself and know how you might fit in. Colleges often use wait lists to fill specific holes in their incoming class. So if you’re an oboe player from Alaska you probably have a better shot at securing a spot. If there is nothing notable about you in terms of demographics or achievements – other than good grades – you might have a bigger challenge securing a spot, so maybe it’s time to look elsewhere.

Respond quickly. If you get a letter saying you’re wait-listed, write a letter or send an email that day to the admissions office telling the college why you are a great fit for them and vice-versa. Some schools look at response time when evaluating inquiries, so if you’re interested in a college don’t wait around – get your letter out now.

If a school is your top choice be sure to tell them that. If a college knows for sure that you’ll attend if they admit you, it can make their decision easier.

Finally, do the right thing. If you have received multiple acceptances from schools you know you will never attend, tell them that. Prompt notification of your intentions opens up spots on the waiting list for others. While it may not directly impact your waiting list woes, it’ll help your karma and that’s got to be worth something.

photo credit: anne.oeldorfhirsch