How can I compare my chances of being admitted from the UIUC and Cornell waitlists?
I was placed on the waitlist at both the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Cornell, and I’m trying to decide how to think about my chances at each school. I know waitlist movement can vary by college and year, so I’m looking for a reliable way to compare the two waitlists beyond general acceptance-rate statistics.
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Treat UIUC and Cornell as two separate enrollment-management decisions, not as waitlists whose odds can be ranked by each university’s overall selectivity.
The most reliable public comparison is each school’s most recent Common Data Set, especially the section reporting how many students accepted a waitlist place, how many were offered admission, and how many enrolled. Use those figures as historical context only.
Compare the current instructions, not just past data. Note whether each institution asks for a formal waitlist response, permits an update or letter of continued interest, sets a response deadline, or explicitly says not to send additional materials. Submit a concise update only where allowed, emphasizing a genuine first-choice interest, meaningful new grades or achievements, and why the particular program remains a fit.
Most importantly, enroll at the strongest college that has already admitted you by its deposit deadline. Waitlist offers can arrive late, may provide limited time to respond, and are not predictable enough to treat as a planned admission outcome.
The most reliable public comparison is each school’s most recent Common Data Set, especially the section reporting how many students accepted a waitlist place, how many were offered admission, and how many enrolled. Use those figures as historical context only.
Compare the current instructions, not just past data. Note whether each institution asks for a formal waitlist response, permits an update or letter of continued interest, sets a response deadline, or explicitly says not to send additional materials. Submit a concise update only where allowed, emphasizing a genuine first-choice interest, meaningful new grades or achievements, and why the particular program remains a fit.
Most importantly, enroll at the strongest college that has already admitted you by its deposit deadline. Waitlist offers can arrive late, may provide limited time to respond, and are not predictable enough to treat as a planned admission outcome.
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College is too important to leave to AI
Life-changing decisions deserve guidance from an expert
A real advisor gets to know you, brings experience from helping other students, and helps you make choices with confidence.
Have questions about the admissions process?
Start working with a Sundial advisor today!