2 waitlists at once

[Anonymous]

For better or worse, we've gotten some positive vibes about a couple of waitlists. (Yes, I get that this means only that there's a possibility, blah blah). One of these is child's first choice, other would be better than the most preferred acceptance.

Any suggestions on how to handle? Of course, if child gets off WL at first choice it's easy. Worry is second choice WL might call first.

How to handle? Can one buy some time reasonably or do these offers evaporate quickly?

Last time I went through this was looking for clerkships in law school - I suspect some of you remember that, with "exploding offers" that were withdrawn if you hung up phone.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:For better or worse, we've gotten some positive vibes about a couple of waitlists. (Yes, I get that this means only that there's a possibility, blah blah). One of these is child's first choice, other would be better than the most preferred acceptance.

Any suggestions on how to handle? Of course, if child gets off WL at first choice it's easy. Worry is second choice WL might call first.

How to handle? Can one buy some time reasonably or do these offers evaporate quickly?

Last time I went through this was looking for clerkships in law school - I suspect some of you remember that, with "exploding offers" that were withdrawn if you hung up phone.

I don't think its as harsh as law school. But if you're offered a spot you would be expected to respond swiftly.

I don't know what to advise, these WLs have not turned into offers, yet, you can only proceed as if they won't do, and then deal with them if and when they come up.

[Anonymous]

Ah, we went through that. They will expect a decision fast. You might have to put initial deposits down at both schools, but don't sign a contract, of course. (You're a lawyer you know that).

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Ah, we went through that. They will expect a decision fast. You might have to put initial deposits down at both schools, but don't sign a contract, of course. (You're a lawyer you know that).

Fast 24 hours or fast 2 hours?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Ah, we went through that. They will expect a decision fast. You might have to put initial deposits down at both schools, but don't sign a contract, of course. (You're a lawyer you know that).

Don't most schools require contract with deposit?

[Anonymous]

Fast -- as in -- during the phone call!

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ah, we went through that. They will expect a decision fast. You might have to put initial deposits down at both schools, but don't sign a contract, of course. (You're a lawyer you know that).

Fast 24 hours or fast 2 hours?

[Anonymous]

I'm of the opinion that you should only apply to schools that your child would be equally happy to attend. Since you are in a WL position, I would say for peace of mind just accept the first offer of admission you receive. I suppose it's fun to think of the possibility that you'll get off of both waitlists and have a choice, but let's be real here. You are not only counting chickens before they hatch, but you are also not even on the farm. If you get off a waitlist spot, take it and don't look back.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Fast -- as in -- during the phone call!

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ah, we went through that. They will expect a decision fast. You might have to put initial deposits down at both schools, but don't sign a contract, of course. (You're a lawyer you know that).

Fast 24 hours or fast 2 hours?

No, not during the phone call at most schools. I've been through this twice. Both schools offered 48 hours.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I'm of the opinion that you should only apply to schools that your child would be equally happy to attend. Since you are in a WL position, I would say for peace of mind just accept the first offer of admission you receive. I suppose it's fun to think of the possibility that you'll get off of both waitlists and have a choice, but let's be real here. You are not only counting chickens before they hatch, but you are also not even on the farm. If you get off a waitlist spot, take it and don't look back.

OP here - I'm not counting chickens at all. I think the chances we get off one WL are relatively low, and 2 would be an embarrassment of riches. But low chances >> zero chance.

I'm asking people to share their experience, as some have, regarding the amount of time we could expect to make a decision so that we can think in advance how to react.

As for "equally happy to attend" - if that were the case we wouldn't bother with WL. I don't think it's realistic - some schools are a better match than others.

[Anonymous]

Good luck! What are the two schools you are hoping to hear from?

[Anonymous]

We got off a waitlist at Potomac and were given 24 hours.

[Anonymous]

I am PP--not this year though!

[Anonymous]

If WL movement happens, what week? Right after contracts are due? Or a couple of weeks later (after spring break)?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:If WL movement happens, what week? Right after contracts are due? Or a couple of weeks later (after spring break)?

My impression is that they start to move as soon as the school knows it has room, which could happen even before contracts are due, but more likely right after. Of course, as things settle out there may be more spaces. E.g., someone takes spot off WL means it opens up space at place that person may have been planning to go . . . so that could take a little time to filter through the system.

[Anonymous]

My DD is also on two WLs. Is it safe to say there will be no movement on the WL until after the deadline for deposits passes for the first wave of enrollment offers? In other words, have any schools ever started pulling from WL as soon as spots free up or do they wait for all commitments to be made before going to the WL?