If you just found yourself on the Harvard waitlist, you may be interested in how to get off it. This article will answer that and other important information about the waitlist process.
The Harvard waitlist combines anticipation, uncertainty, and the possibility of a dream come true. Being placed on the waitlist means that Harvard University recognizes your potential but cannot offer immediate admission.
However, there are strategies you can employ to enhance your chances of moving from the waitlist to an accepted student.
By understanding the process, demonstrating continued interest, providing updated information, and keeping an open mind, you can optimistically navigate the waitlist experience and maximize your opportunity to secure a spot at one of the world's most prestigious institutions.
You might wonder how many people are on Harvard's waitlist. Like most Ivy League schools, Harvard's admissions process is highly competitive, and they receive many applications each year.
However, the number of applicants waitlisted can vary from year to year, depending on various factors such as the number of applications received, the quality of applicants, and the capacity of the incoming class.
Unfortunately, the number of people on the Harvard waitlist is not public knowledge. Due to Harvard's competitive nature and the published numbers from similar schools, Harvard's waitlist is roughly 1000 to 2000 people. For the 2026 class, we know that Harvard accepted 36 students from the waitlist.
The admission of waitlisted students to Harvard varies each year. For instance, they admitted 34 students from the waitlist for one class, none for another, and 36 for yet another. It really depends on how many students they accept initially and how many of those decide to enroll.
The number of waitlisted students getting into Harvard varies because of factors like how many students accept their first offers of admission. Harvard adjusts its approach every year based on these factors, so there isn't a consistent percentage you can expect.
Here are the straightforward acceptance rates and yield percentages (% accepted spots) for graduating classes from 2021 to 2027, showing how many students applied and what percentage were accepted each year.
These figures provide a clear snapshot of admissions trends over the past several years.
If you find yourself waitlisted by Harvard University or any other institution, here are some steps you can consider taking.
Research and understand Harvard's specific guidelines and instructions regarding its waitlist process. This information may be available on their website or in the communication you received.
Follow the instructions given by Harvard to officially accept your spot on the waitlist. This typically involves submitting a form or responding to an email indicating your continued interest in being considered for admission.
While on the Harvard waitlist, it is important to explore and consider other college options. Accept an offer of admission from another institution before the deadline to ensure you have a backup plan in case you are not ultimately admitted off the waitlist.
If Harvard allows it, consider writing a letter of continued interest to the admissions office. This letter should express your continued interest in attending Harvard, update them on any significant achievements or developments since your application, and explain why Harvard remains your top choice.
Some institutions may allow you to submit additional materials to support your application while on the waitlist. This could include updated grades, test scores, or additional recommendation letters. Follow Harvard's guidelines regarding what materials they accept and the deadline for submission.
Stay in touch with the admissions office if appropriate. However, be mindful not to overstep any stated boundaries or guidelines provided by Harvard. Respect their process and follow their instructions regarding communication.
While it's natural to have a strong desire to attend Harvard, try to focus your attention on other positive opportunities that come your way. Embrace other college options and engage in activities that will further your personal and academic growth.
Darryl, Admissions Consultant at Tufts University, explains how to get off the waitlist at colleges:
"1. Respond: accept or deny your spot on the waitlist. Colleges also want to know would you like to remain on the waitlist. They understand this has been a long journey; you may be tired of waiting so you might choose not to. But if that’s a school you definitely want to go to, you want to attend, make sure you accept your place on the waitlist."
"2.Demonstrate interest: consider submitting a letter of continued interest or an email just to let the schools know that you are very keenly interested in attending that place and again have not internalized the waitlist as a negative reply. It’s another opportunity for you to become a student at that school."
"3. Keep up your grades: focus on excelling in the classroom because you can update them with your continued performance. Focus on being a great citizen out in your community and in the world, and when you’re updating them, tell them about the projects you’ve just done or the theater appearance you’ve just had or the community service you’ve just led."
Here are a few common questions that come up about the Harvard waitlist.
While it is impossible to know exactly how many students are on the waitlist as Harvard does not publish those numbers, comparing Harvard admission statistics to those of similar schools such as Yale leads to a rough estimate that 1000 to 2000 students are placed on the waitlist.
Getting waitlisted by a prestigious university such as Harvard can be considered an accomplishment. Harvard is already a very selective school and has limited waitlist slots as opposed to being rejected outright. This proves you have what it takes to surpass the competitive screening and interview process.
Unfortunately, Harvard does not publish the number of people placed on the waitlist for any given year. However, the Harvard website shows that 36 students were accepted from the waitlist for the 2026 class.
Being waitlisted by Harvard can be both challenging and hopeful. While the specific number of applicants admitted from the waitlist can vary each year, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of getting off the waitlist.
Accept your spot on the waitlist, explore other college options as a backup plan, and consider sending a well-crafted letter of continued interest.
If allowed, provide additional materials showcasing your growth and achievements since submitting your application. It's essential to maintain respectful communication with the admissions office and focus on other positive opportunities that come your way.
Remember, the waitlist offers a chance to demonstrate your continued interest and commitment to Harvard, but ultimately, the final decision is beyond your control. Stay optimistic, embrace all potential paths, and trust in the process.
