The Next Steps After Hearing Back from Colleges: What You Need to Know
It’s that time of year—early admissions decisions are starting to roll in, and the excitement (and nerves!) are building. Whether it’s an acceptance, deferral, or even a rejection, hearing back from colleges can bring a mix of emotions. It’s important to stay grounded and remember that every student’s journey is unique. Let’s break down what these decisions mean and what steps you can take next.
1. Decisions Are Rolling In: Try Not to Compare Yourself
It’s natural to want to share the news, but this can also be a challenging time when you see friends posting their acceptances on social media or comparing notes on who got in where. Remember: every college looks at different factors when making admissions decisions. Something as small as an overlooked extracurricular activity or a few missed points on a standardized test could make the difference between an acceptance and a deferral.
Avoid comparing yourself to others. Your path is your own, and colleges are building classes that reflect their unique goals—not just individual achievements.
2. Accepted? Congratulations! Here’s What to Do Next
If you’ve been accepted, celebrate! But don’t feel pressured to make a decision right away. You have until May 1 (National College Decision Day) to officially commit to a school. However, there may be benefits to submitting an early enrollment deposit. Some schools offer perks like:
Early access to housing preferences.
Priority course registration.
Invitations to exclusive admitted student events.
Be sure to check each school’s policies and deadlines to determine if early commitment provides any advantages.
3. Deferred? Don’t Panic—It’s Not Over Yet
A deferral doesn’t mean “no.” It simply means the college wants more information before making a final decision. In many cases, schools are looking for mid-year grades, updated test scores, or other materials to make a more informed decision. Here’s what you can do:
Reach out to the admissions office: Politely ask if there’s anything specific you can provide to strengthen your application. Some colleges even encourage students to send a letter of continued interest (LOCI), where you reaffirm your enthusiasm for the school.
Register for the SAT or ACT: If testing is optional and you didn’t initially submit scores—or if your scores could improve—sign up for the next available test date.
Keep working hard: Finish the semester strong. Colleges want to see that you’re maintaining good grades and staying engaged academically. This is not the time to let “senioritis” kick in!
4. Filing the FAFSA and CSS Profile: Don’t Wait
Even if you’ve been accepted, financial aid can play a huge role in your decision-making process. Here’s what to keep in mind:
FAFSA: File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid as soon as possible. The FAFSA opens on December 1, 2024, this year, but be patient—the website may experience delays on launch day. Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for need-based aid, private colleges often use FAFSA data to award institutional scholarships.
CSS Profile: Some colleges, especially private schools, require the CSS Profile in addition to the FAFSA. The CSS Profile opens on October 1 each year and is used to determine eligibility for non-federal aid.
By filing these forms early, you’ll have a clearer picture of your financial aid package, which can help you make an informed decision by May 1.
5. Celebrate Your Wins and Focus on the Right Fit
The college admissions process can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you will end up at a school that’s right for you. Whether it’s your dream school or a place you hadn’t considered initially, the key is finding a college where you can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
If you’re reading this blog, you’re already a competitive student (or a supportive parent), and you’ve put in the work to get here. Celebrate every acceptance, no matter where it’s from. College is not about where you go—it’s about what you do when you get there.
6. Final Checklist for Post-Admissions Success
Here’s a quick rundown of things to keep in mind once you’ve started hearing back from colleges:
Celebrate your acceptances!
Compare financial aid offers to see which schools are the most affordable.
Consider visiting campuses to see which feels like the best fit.
For deferrals, follow up with admissions offices and strengthen your application with updated grades or test scores.
File the FAFSA and CSS Profile early to secure the best financial aid package.
Start planning for May 1 (Decision Day) by narrowing down your choices.
Final Thoughts
Hearing back from colleges is an exciting milestone, but it’s only one part of the process. Whether you’ve been accepted, deferred, or are still waiting on decisions, there are steps you can take to keep moving forward. Focus on what you can control, celebrate your progress, and trust that you’re on the path to success.
Remember: it’s not about the name of the school, but about finding the best fit for you. So take a deep breath, enjoy this moment, and know that your hard work will pay off. You’ve got this!
