UC Transfer Waitlist Information & Waitlist Statement Guideline

Waitlist Information
Waitlist Statement Writing Guidelines
Appeal While On Waitlist
Waitlist Numbers
Waitlist Statement Help


UC Waitlist Information

Each UC campus handles the waitlist opt-in process a little differently. Most UCs will have an opt-in deadline of May 15, but some campuses may have different deadlines. I recommend that you carefully review the waitlist information and/or FAQ from the campus that offered you waitlist before opting in.

Most UC campuses will not release waitlist decisions until well after the June 1 SIR deadline, so be sure to follow through with a backup plan in case the waitlist decision doesn’t work out in your favor. There is no penalty for you to withdraw the SIR if you are accepted from the waitlist somewhere else (except losing the $250 deposit).

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UC Waitlist Statement Writing Guidelines

If a waitlist statement is allowed, be sure to explain why the campus is right for you. For example, what opportunities will the campus offer you and how do you intend to take advantage of those opportunities? You should also reinforce why you are the right student for that campus. For example, what experiences, knowledge, skills, and characteristics do you bring to the campus and how will you positively contribute to the student body and/or the campus community?

For campuses that do NOT have a waitlist statement, keep in mind that they will NOT review unsolicited information.

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Appeal While On Waitlist

Most UCs do not allow applicants who were offered waitlist option to appeal. There are some exceptions, thoroughly review the campus appeal instructions to verify. For UCs where you are required to decline the waitlist in order to appeal, keep in mind you are significantly more likely to be admitted from the waitlist than from appeal; carefully weigh your options before you appeal.

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UC Waitlist Numbers

Not sure if you should opt-in or give up? Take a look at previous years’ waitlist numbers I have compiled here to help you decide the best way forward!

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Waitlist Statement Help

Find general waitlist statement help on my YouTube Channel (watch Understanding How the UC Appeal and Waitlist Process Works first, then check out How to Compose Your UC Waitlist Statement).

Need more help with your waitlist statement? Learn more about the service options I have available.

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