How WaitList Works

[TwilightEve]

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I just got waitlisted at MSPP. How does waitlists work? would i hear back from the program before April 15th or after? I've also gotten accepted to Nova Southeastern. Nova has good research but MSPP has better clinical training (you start in the first year and get four years of it, I also like the location better.) A little confused as to what to do now .__.

 

[CheetahGirl]

It's up to you to keep in touch with the school. You may hear back from them if you move up their waitlist and they offer you a spot. However, if you are lower on the waitlist, then you may not hear back from them in a timely manner.

My advice: If you want your MSPP, then try to hold Nova off until April 15th. You can call MSPP now and let them know that you've been made another offer, but would still like to be considered because they are your first choice. Call MSPP again around April 1st and ask if there's been any movement on the waitlist that would change your status. Call MSPP again around April 13th and let them know that you are getting ready to accept another offer, but thought you'd give it one last try. Each time try to speak with the same person, but the last attempt, try to speak with director of the program. You may get some pressure from Nova to make a decision well before April 15th, so they can go to their waitlist. You may not want to let Nova go unless you know you're getting into MSPP. Once you accept an offer, it is bad form to rescind an offer because something better comes along. Some schools that offer scholarships must release you from your contract before you are free to accept another offer, which sometimes burns bridges. It does get tricky for all involved.

The best thing to do is let MSPP get to know you and how badly you want to be in their program. That may influence your position on the waitlist because you become a "sure thing" to them. But, try, if you can, to be considerate of Nova and let them know you have several possibilities on the table and you’re trying your best to weigh all options thoughtfully. If and when you do accept Nova, make it seem like they were the best final decision. Either way, you'll be happy to end up where you do...things do have a funny way of working themselves out.

People do get accepted off waitlists after April 15th, but it is the "magic day" to make final decisions for initial offers. Another really good tip is to notify the schools where you were waitlisted once you've accepted an offer because it allows the school to move people up on their waitlist. The more courtesy you can offer, the better.

Also, check the archives for waitlist debates...it'll help with suggestions and decisions.

Good Luck!