Son was waitlisted today at WashU. It was his first choice, but he opted not to ED to see all his other options (acceptances and $$). He has a lot of other good options (including a great option that will NET lots of positive cashflow with all scholarships). But given that it was his first choice, he’s still pretty bummed and with his (perfect) stats all around, a bit surprised. I’ve seen the WL numbers, so I know it’s not likely. So maybe I’m just looking for vibes/experience….(1) does anyone have any insight on the chances of getting off the WashU WL and the timing for that? I think WLs are worse than denials now and am just hoping for clarity. TIA for any intel. And (2) if he has the chance to go to UF (honors program) and make $$ what are the thoughts of this community of that vs. WashU (no $)? I (obviously) know free and making money is better than spending a fortune. These schools are quite different in size though and that is a HUGE difference for our ND son. Any insight/experience with WashU re: why it may be worth it would also be appreciated. TIA.
According to their CDS, in the 2024-25 cycle, it was 210 admitted out of 2658 accepting a place on their waitlist. 2023-24, 200/2713, 2022-23 168/3447. Before that you get into COVID era strangeness, and then a pretty different environment pre-COVID, so I wouldn’t rely on anything before 2022-23.
OK, so . . . yes, those are kinda long odds, and practically they might be looking to fill specific gaps, and your son might not be in one of those gaps. Like, they may or may not have any gaps in a particular division, and so on.
That said, a LOCI which promises he would accept a waitlist offer (if you can make such a promise) couldn’t hurt.
Usually the vast bulk of waitlist offers come after the May 1 decision deadline. There can be multiple rounds if they are hunting for something specific that is proving hard to find. They promise the process will be over by June 30.
In terms of worth it, that is ultimately very personal. My S24 is doing very well at WashU, academically, socially, in terms of activities, found a great girlfriend, and so on. And we can comfortably afford it.
But an honors offer from a quality university, full ride with bonus cash, is obviously great too. For some families it wouldn’t even be a question, like that can literally be a life-changing sort of offer. Others can afford to treat it as a question of personal preference. Some basically offer the kid the money if they don’t spend it on college, and leave it to them to decide. Again, it is all very personal at that point.
WashU RD Class of 2030 Results Survey:
This form is for tracking decision results, so it’s all centralized for future students. If you could fill this out once you get your decision, that would be very appreciated!
You can see all other people’s individual responses in the links above, along with overall form statistics (such as what percent got accepted).
We are super excited with our son’s acceptance! Is anyone planning to visit WashU on the April 17 Bear Day?
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