What should I do after getting waitlisted at the University of San Diego?

After being waitlisted at the University of San Diego, the smartest move is to first accept your spot on the waitlist through your applicant portal, then enroll at another college by that school’s deposit deadline so you have a guaranteed option. The best follow-up is usually one clear update, not repeated emails or calls.

In that letter, confirm that USD remains a top choice if that is true, briefly explain why USD is a strong fit for you, and share any meaningful new information since you applied. Good updates include stronger grades, an award, a leadership role, a new project, or a clearer academic reason for wanting USD specifically.

If you have a major update later, one additional message is reasonable. If nothing significant has changed, it is better not to keep sending small check-ins. Overdoing contact can make you seem anxious rather than genuinely interested.

Also make sure your final senior-year grades stay strong. Colleges often turn to the waitlist after seeing how the class is shaping up, and a drop in performance can hurt your chances. If USD offers any waitlist reply form, follow those instructions exactly, since schools sometimes state whether they want extra materials or not.

Treat the waitlist as a real possibility but not a plan. Commit somewhere you would be willing to attend, and let your USD follow-up be specific, concise, and sincere.