Early decision application responses are being sent out and for some students, their college dreams are falling apart. After committing the time to create the dream college list and working hard to finalize applications – hearing crickets or receiving that decline now can be devastating. A rejection for early decision applications hurts. But, I want to remind you that this news doesn’t have to be the end of your college journey. Take some time to feel how you’re feeling now, but when you’re ready – here’s a great back up plan for your college admissions!
Be patient:
This is especially true if your application was deferred. Unless it’s a downright “no,” there is still the possibility that you might be accepted in the second wave of application reviews. In some cases it’s not over until it’s over. So, it might just be a matter of waiting a little longer. You can still make alternative back-up plans. But don’t give up hope completely if you had your heart set on one college.
Reassess your initial strategy:
Some students can get very interested in one particular college in the rush to apply. You might not realize that it was out of your reach all along, or maybe you ignored another great college where you could be a standout student. Take a moment to review your options and the other schools you initially considered.
Rethink your application:
When you’re ready, take an honest look at your application and think about whether or not it really presented your potential in the best possible light. If not, it’s time to reconsider your application approach. You can also have a trusted and unbiased individual help you look it over like a guidance or career counselor. If there’s something you want to change, now is the time to do so before submitting new applications.
Check out new possibilities:
Go over your initial list of colleges again, and revisit those you might have overlooked the first time. Check out their websites and their regular admission deadlines. Use your focus to apply to them, using whatever you’ve learned from this first round of applications.
Reflect:
This is a time to reflect on what may have made your application stand out more or if you are really ready for this journey. Not every student needs or wants to start college right after high school graduation. It may be worth considering that this isn’t the possibility you actually want right now. If it is, then it’s time to regroup and send in more applications! It can be hard to not take this rejection personally but consider a time for reflection and growth.
If you do apply to any colleges that were not on your original list – be sure to add those colleges to your completed FAFSA. This gives them the opportunity to consider your financial circumstances, in the event you are accepted and do qualify for financial aid.
Focus on the positives and remember that you now have the opportunity to compare financial aid packages and admissions offers from multiple schools during the Regular Decision process. That’s such an exciting moment to look forward to this spring! Not getting accepted into your early decision or early action college choice can be a disappointment, but it does not have to ruin your senior year. You’ve got this!
More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors
Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.