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Emory University Application: How to Get In

I. Introduction to Emory University Admissions

A. Presenting Emory: Academic Excellence and Distinctive Identity
Emory University stands tall, a beacon of academic rigor right in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 1836, Emory has earned its status as a private research powerhouse and a hub for global impact, bolstered by its close partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—a perk for pre-health hopefuls and policy wonks alike. What sets the Emory experience apart? The perfect blend of intellectual ambition and Southern hospitality. With both the Atlanta campus and the smaller Oxford College two-year track, Emory straddles the line between big-city energy and intimate academic community—but at every turn, the university drives home values of civic engagement, curiosity, and impact.

Whether you’re eyeing the renowned Goizueta Business School, Emory College’s robust liberal arts programs, or its pipeline to healthcare careers (where upwards of 42% of students move on to graduate-level health science programs), this is a university that expects—and supports—deep inquiry. Over 70 undergraduate majors, a thriving research culture, and access to real-world Atlanta extend your learning far outside a traditional classroom. When you join Emory, you aren’t just stepping onto a campus; you’re becoming part of a legacy with global reach and southern roots.

B. Understanding Admission Competitiveness
Let’s cut to the chase: Emory isn’t just competitive—it’s discerning. In the most recent admission cycle, Emory received a staggering 33,435 undergraduate applications, reflecting a multi-year climb that underscores the school’s national and international draw . True to form for selective private universities, Emory’s overall acceptance rate hovers around 11%, positioning it among the most academically elite institutions in the Southeast . Those numbers don’t just reflect prestige; they signal just how intentional you’ll need to be in crafting your application.

Digging deeper into application rounds, there’s often a strategic advantage for those who apply Early Decision (ED) rather than Regular Decision (RD)—Emory’s ED acceptance rate clocks in at 27%, more than double the rate for regular applicants . That’s savvy admissions strategy in action; the university is keen on commitment, rewarding students who make Emory their unequivocal first choice. In short, from volume to admit rates, these stats frame your application: when stakes are this high, fit, voice, and conviction are non-negotiables.

The tone set here resonates throughout the admissions process: Emory expects applicants who are not only academically formidable, but who can contribute to—and thrive in—the university’s distinctive, mission-driven community.

II. Emory’s Admissions Approach

A. Emory’s Holistic Evaluation
Emory’s approach to admissions is as multidimensional as its campus life: “holistic review” isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s practiced with precision. Every facet of your application is weighed to construct a narrative of your readiness, ambition, and fit. Academic credentials are, of course, foundational. But Emory also prizes the less-quantifiable qualities—qualities that leap off the page through essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars.

What exactly makes an applicant shine? Emory’s official stance is that they’re searching for intellectually curious, compassionate, and collaborative students. Your grades and rigor matter, but so does context—admissions officers evaluate achievements within the opportunities available to you. Participation outside the classroom, leadership, special talents, and the way you express your story through essays all come under review. They’re not looking for a single “mold” but for signs of maturity, resilience, and a willingness to engage deeply in and out of the classroom. Most tellingly, 95% of enrolled first-year students were involved in significant extracurricular or service pursuits, a clear signal that Emory values true engagement as much as raw academic horsepower .

B. Emory’s Core Applicant Values
Drill into what Emory really seeks, and you’ll find five recurring themes: leadership, service, intellectual engagement, global perspective, and demonstrated integrity. Leadership goes beyond holding titles—it’s about effecting meaningful change, whether you led your debate team to new heights or spearheaded a local recycling program. Service is woven into Emory’s DNA: think sustained volunteering at a local health clinic, launching a mental health initiative, or international humanitarian trips that shaped your worldview.

Intellectual engagement? That’s the drive to question, to research, to create—in science, art, the humanities, or business. Global perspective matters, too; over 40% of Emory’s student body brings multicultural backgrounds or international experiences . That isn’t accidental—the university thrives on diverse viewpoints that reframe classroom and community conversations. Finally, integrity isn’t just a talking point: students are expected to uphold Emory’s storied Honor Code, and examples of ethical decision-making—overcoming dilemmas, standing up for what’s right—give you a seat at the table.

The through-line? Emory’s holistic review ensures every student brings more than just stats. The best applications connect these five values naturally, forging a vivid, authentic portrait that slots seamlessly into Emory’s vibrant, globally minded campus culture.

III. Academic Credentials and Rigor

A. GPA Benchmarks and Academic Achievement
At Emory, academic excellence isn’t negotiable—a strong GPA sits at the very heart of the university’s expectations for incoming students. The latest class of admits reported an impressive average weighted GPA of 4.05, signaling that top applicants consistently push for the highest marks in the most demanding courses available at their schools . But don’t panic if your academic journey wasn’t flawlessly linear. Emory values upward trends and resilience: if your earlier semesters featured a stumble or two, make sure your transcript and application show concrete recovery, increasing rigor, and higher grades in junior and senior years. When you find yourself below the 4.05 mark, lean into your recent academic momentum and select challenging courses to demonstrate you’re on the up-and-up.

B. High School Course Rigor at Emory
A stellar GPA won’t hold much weight at Emory unless it’s backed by substantial academic rigor. “Coasting” on standard-level classes won’t suffice. Admissions officers expect applicants to maximize course offerings—think Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Honors, and even dual enrollment if available. For pre-med hopefuls, prioritize AP/IB Biology, Chemistry, and Calculus; aspiring Goizueta Business stars should load up on AP/IB Economics, Statistics, and Calculus. Whatever the intended field, a transcript crowded with advanced courses in core subjects each year is a must. At Emory, “rigor” means pushing boundaries, not settling for easy marks.

C. Class Rank
Emory’s evaluation of class rank is contextualized: it’s considered if reported, but not required or paramount. For schools that provide rank, many of Emory’s admitted students fall within the top 10% of their graduating class . But for the majority hailing from schools without rank, don’t fret—Emory is adept at interpreting transcripts relative to school context, looking instead for evidence of you rising to the academic top given your environment. To those lacking rank, double down on showing leadership in class choices and, where available, honors and distinctions that mark you out from your peers.

D. Standardized Test Policy
Emory currently operates under a test-optional policy for both SAT and ACT submissions—but if your scores support your narrative, submitting can propel you into Emory’s sought-after ranges. For those who send scores, the middle 50% SAT range is 1450–1560, while the ACT range registers at 33–35 . Emory superscores both tests, considering your best sectional results across multiple sittings. Rule of thumb: if your scores fall at or above the lower end of those middle 50% bands, submit them with pride. Scores below? Consider holding back and letting other strengths (rigorous coursework, standout essays, compelling recommendations) shine in their place. Strategic self-assessment—true Emory style—is your competitive edge.

IV. Involvement, Impact, and The Emory Ethos

A. Extracurricular Engagement: Breadth and Depth
Emory expects to see not just ‘involvement,’ but real, authentic investment in a few key areas. A standout applicant isn’t the club collector—they’re the changemaker. At Emory, 83% of first-year students reported holding leadership positions in at least one extracurricular pursuit before college, cementing the value the university places on both engagement and impact. Activities that align with Emory’s mission—public health advocacy, global awareness campaigns, or long-term service with organizations like Habitat for Humanity—stand out for their substance over showmanship. Admissions wants to see measurable results: spearheaded initiatives, created new organizations, or taken on greater responsibility as you progressed.

Maximize storytelling in your Common App Activities section by anchoring your roles and results. Did your science club outreach bring STEM to 200+ local elementary students? Did your involvement in Model UN result in awards or new delegations? Quantify your contribution, highlight your leadership, and articulate the deeper purpose behind your work. At Emory, quality always bests quantity.

B. Leadership and Service
Leadership and service aren’t mere résumé lines at Emory—they’re core to the university’s ethos. Emory students log thousands of hours of community engagement annually, and over 60% participate in formal service-learning or volunteer work prior to matriculating . The Center for Civic and Community Engagement and other acclaimed programs are built on the university’s historic commitment to creating ethical leaders who make a difference. Did you establish a peer-mentoring program, coordinate a citywide food drive, or launch a mental health campaign? These are textbook examples that resonate powerfully.

If you held elected office in student government, led a robotics team to state competition, or started a sustainability initiative, bring those experiences to the forefront. Link each example to outcomes—“reduced waste by 30%,” “expanded program to three schools,” “raised $5,000 for local children’s charities.” Emory values not just leadership for its own sake, but leadership that moves the needle.

C. Demonstrated Interest in Emory
Here’s the inside scoop: Emory does not formally track demonstrated interest for admissions decisions—meaning there’s no secret tally for campus tours, emails, or webinars attended. But this doesn’t let you off the hook for doing your homework. The savviest candidates showcase deep knowledge and authentic enthusiasm in their application essays and interviews. Mention faculty members whose research excites you, or reference a campus program (hello, Emory Center for Ethics!) that would be your home base. Attend virtual events, connect with student ambassadors, and read the campus news to get familiar with Emory-specific traditions and offerings.

Strategically, use every touchpoint—essays, interviews, even social media interactions—to telegraph that you didn’t just Google Emory the day before submitting. Integration is everything; knowing the difference between the Atlanta and Oxford campuses, citing recent student-led initiatives, or expressing desire to participate in interdisciplinary research proves you’re not just blindly applying, but purposefully pursuing a place at Emory.

V. Essays and Written Expressions

A. Emory-Specific Essay Prompts
Emory’s essay section is where your personality, intellect, and motivation for Atlanta come alive. Alongside the Common App personal statement, Emory requires two short supplemental essays. These prompts shift year to year but consistently probe the “why” behind your journey: Why here, why now, why you? Recent prompts have included questions such as: “Reflect on a personal experience that shaped your growth,” and “What excites you about the academic and community experience at Emory?” The admissions committee expects “authentic voice,” self-reflection, and a crystal-clear link between your strengths and what Emory alone offers.

Key tip: Study the prompts with Emory’s brand of excellence in mind—think intellectual curiosity, impact, and a collaborative spirit. Mention how you’ll add vibrancy to campus culture, not just how the university serves you. The best supplemental essays zero in on specifics: cite renowned faculty, campus traditions, or unique organizations (like the Emory QuestBridge Chapter or the Student Global Health Forum).

B. Crafting Compelling Personal Statements
A memorable Emory personal statement must showcase honest self-awareness and a perspective only you can deliver. Don’t repackage your résumé—reveal your epiphany moments, growth arcs, and the values that steer you. Begin with an inviting hook, such as an anecdote: “In the chaos of the free clinic’s waiting room, I learned that empathy was my most powerful tool.” Use laser-sharp narrative, active voice, and crisp detail. Avoid sweeping generalities—instead, ground every claim in personal experience.

Highlighting challenges, pivots, or fresh perspectives (perhaps shaped by Atlanta’s urban energy or global diversity) is gold. Connect your journey to Emory’s ethos: “This is how I’ll contribute to a campus culture where curiosity meets action.” Show, don’t tell, your readiness to propel yourself (and those around you) forward.

C. What to Avoid
Emory’s admissions readers are seasoned pros—they spot clichés a mile away. Don’t retread the “winning the big game changed my life” arc, or the “I want to go to college because…college is great” routine. Avoid using a one-size-fits-all “Why College” essay; Emory expects specificity, so name real people, programs, or values unique to their campus. Vague, unsubstantiated claims like “I love helping people” or “Emory is an amazing school” read as hollow and forgettable.

Another pitfall: listing accomplishments instead of reflecting on them, or mentioning “international experiences” without tying them to Emory’s mission of global leadership. Don’t submit essays loaded with Emory “buzzwords” but lacking genuine connection. Instead, your writing should radiate purpose—make clear why Emory’s blend of academic rigor and ethical leadership is where you’re meant to thrive.

VI. Letters of Recommendation

A. Who to Ask?
Emory is not shy about its preference: recommendations should come from teachers who have taught you core academic subjects—think English, math, science, social studies, or a language—ideally during your junior or senior year, when you’re operating at your intellectual peak. Strive for diversity if possible; a humanities teacher paired with a STEM instructor shows your dexterity across disciplines. The school also gives importance to the counselor recommendation, which can provide vital context about your role in the academic and social fabric of your high school. With 88% of admitted students submitting at least one teacher recommendation from junior or senior year, following this guideline isn’t just wise—it’s decisive .

B. Prepping Your Recommenders
The most impactful letters are those where the writer knows you deeply—both in and beyond the classroom. Give your recommenders a thoughtful “brag sheet” or resume, but don’t stop there. Start a conversation: discuss Emory’s values, your reasons for applying, and examples of your leadership, growth, or curiosity that align with Emory’s priorities. Steer them to concrete vignettes: “She initiated a student-run research project on antibiotic resistance,” or “He led our Model UN team from last place to regional champions through collaboration and grit.” Brief your teachers on themes like intellectual engagement, resilience, and ethical character—the very essence of what Emory seeks.

C. When and How to Seek Additional Letters
Occasionally, an extra recommendation makes all the difference—particularly when it fills a gap your main recommenders can’t address. Maybe your robotics mentor can vouch for technical skills and teamwork, or your supervisor at a public health internship witnessed your leadership under pressure. However, moderation is key: only add another letter if it adds fresh, undeniable value. For example, if you co-founded a nonprofit and your faculty advisor documents your role scaling the organization citywide, that’s worth including. Otherwise, resist the urge to submit more simply for the sake of volume—Emory’s application readers are fans of precision, not padding.

VII. The Emory Interview Process

A. Interview Opportunities
Emory interviews are strictly optional and are conducted by trained alumni volunteers—not admissions staff—and are available on a first-come, first-served basis after you submit your application. While these interviews are neither required nor guaranteed (demand often outpaces availability), they provide a valuable, low-pressure chance to put a human face to your file. Interviews at Emory are primarily informational rather than evaluative; they don’t directly impact admissions decisions but do give you the opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm and clarify what excites you about joining the Emory community.

B. Interview Prep and Mindset
Think of your Emory interview as a conversation—not an interrogation—focused on fit, curiosity, and personal insight. Start by digging deep into Emory’s signature programs (the Oxford/Atlanta campus choice, service initiatives, and research opportunities galore). Know the differences between Goizueta Business School and College of Arts and Sciences, and reflect on which academic pathways ignite your own ambitions.

Expect questions like:

1. “Why Emory? What aspects of our student culture resonate with you most?”
2. “Describe a challenge you faced and how you grew from it.”
3. “How have you made an impact on your school or community, and how would you continue that at Emory?”
   Run through your own stories of growth, leadership, and curiosity. Draft a short checklist to prep: familiarize yourself with your academic interests as they intersect with Emory’s offerings, know a couple of campus traditions or organizations by name, and be ready to articulate how you’d uniquely contribute.

C. Leaving a Strong Impression
Polish your professionalism but keep your approach authentic—think excitement with substance, not rehearsed scripts. After the interview, always send a tailored thank-you note within 24–48 hours. Reference something specific from your conversation (“I enjoyed discussing my love for global health and learning about your study abroad experiences in Paris”) to reinforce your genuine engagement. A simple structure suffices: greet your interviewer by name, thank them for their time and insight, highlight one or two memorable discussion points, and reiterate your enthusiasm for Emory.

Doing this not only leaves a memorable final impression, but also subtly reinforces your sincerity and readiness to join Emory’s collaborative, intellectually charged environment.

VIII. Understanding Costs and Financing Emory

A. Tuition, Fees, and Living Expenses
Emory’s world-class education comes with a corresponding investment. For the 2023–2024 academic year, tuition stands at $59,920, with mandatory fees totaling $816. Expect room and board to run approximately $17,400 annually, bringing the baseline cost of attendance to around $78,136 per year . This figure doesn’t include travel, books, personal expenses, or those occasional late-night study runs—so families should use Emory’s online Net Price Calculator to create personalized estimates that reflect individual circumstances. While sticker shock is real, Emory’s robust financial aid resources mean that very few families actually pay full price.

B. Financial Aid: Merit and Need
Emory’s financial aid approach is a model of both breadth and depth, meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted domestic students . Around 57% of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid, and the average need-based scholarship/grant clocks in at $47,152 —a number that can dramatically shift the affordability equation. For the merit-minded, Emory Scholars Programs (which include the Emory Scholars, Oxford Scholars, and Goizueta Scholars) offer full and partial scholarships based on extraordinary achievement and community impact. While competition here is fierce, selected students not only earn substantial funding but also plug straight into mentorship, special programming, and unique academic opportunities that energize Emory’s intellectual core.

C. Navigating Financial Aid Applications
Getting financial aid from Emory is a mission in paperwork and precision. U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens submit both the FAFSA and the CSS Profile, with priority deadlines typically falling around November 15 for Early Decision I applicants and January 1 for Regular Decision or Early Decision II . Don’t miss these—late submission can cap potential aid. Have tax returns, W-2s, and bank statements on hand to streamline the process. Importantly, Emory practices need-blind admission for domestic first-year applicants, meaning your ability to pay does not factor into the admissions decision. Once admitted, financial aid packages aim to replace loans with grants whenever possible, and generous work-study opportunities are available for eligible students. For families with unique financial circumstances, Emory’s financial aid office stands ready to answer questions and provide confidential, nuanced guidance every step of the way.

IX. Special Considerations for Distinct Applicant Groups

A. International Applicants
International students bring exciting dimensions to Emory’s campus, and the university welcomes their applications with open arms and clear, rigorous criteria. About 17% of Emory’s undergraduate population holds international citizenship, hailing from more than 100 countries—proof-positive of the school’s global fabric . International applicants must submit either the TOEFL (minimum required: 100 iBT), IELTS (minimum: 7.5), or Duolingo English Test (minimum: 120) if English isn’t their first language. All international credentials must be evaluated according to Emory’s guidelines, and documentation requirements are precise; double-check deadlines and mailing instructions for transcripts, test scores, and financial certification forms. Emory also extends need-based financial aid and some merit scholarships to international students, though competition is stiffer and funding is limited compared to domestic pools. Luckily, robust orientation programming and specialized resources, such as peer mentoring and the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office, ease the transition to Atlanta’s cosmopolitan campus.

B. Transfer Applicant Guidance
Transfer hopefuls make up a small but crucial slice of the Emory community. Each year, around 420 transfer applications are received, with admit rates averaging about 20%, and roughly 130 transfer students ultimately enrolling . Emory seeks college-level academic rigor and achievement; successful transfers typically present a college GPA above 3.5 with strong performance in courses matching their intended Emory major. Application requirements include all college transcripts, an academic evaluation, a college report/midterm report from current professors, and (if applicable) a high school transcript. Transfer credit is assessed on a course-by-course basis, with students required to complete at least two years of full-time study at Emory for graduation. Prospective transfers should pay close attention to application timelines—March 15 for fall entry and October 1 for spring entry—since Emory is selective and space in key majors can be tight.

C. Support for Underrepresented and First-Gen Applicants
Emory is proactive in its support for underrepresented, first-generation, and low-income students, aiming to empower and retain a truly diverse undergraduate community. Programs like Emory EDGE provide pre-orientation, academic workshops, mentorship, and community-building for first-gen and historically marginalized students, creating an immediate support network upon arrival. The university is also a proud QuestBridge partner, connecting talented low-income students with full-tuition scholarships and dedicated advising . Emory’s Commitment to Access program removes financial barriers even further, helping students from low-income backgrounds thrive academically and socially. Ultimately, whether it’s through affinity groups, targeted scholarships, or holistic student services, Emory ensures that no community member falls through the cracks—making its mission for inclusivity tangible, not just rhetorical.

X. Maximizing Your Application to Emory: Final Strategies

A. Timeline and Early Action—Planning to Win
Strategic timing turns a “good” application into a powerhouse submission. Begin research and self-reflection as early as junior spring—visit campus, create your “brag sheet,” and start drafting activity lists. Over the summer, outline and revise essays, securing input from trusted advisors. For those considering Early Decision I (ED I), mark your calendar: application and financial aid materials are due November 1. ED II and Regular Decision (RD) deadlines fall on January 1, with merit scholarship consideration linked to ED I and the Emory Scholars deadlines. Aim to request recommendations by early fall and submit test scores (if applicable) a few weeks ahead of deadlines to avoid any last-minute tech nightmares. Bottom line: Building a calendar with target dates and pacing yourself is your secret weapon for a less stressful, more focused application season.

B. Leveraging Guidance and Resources
No great application is built in isolation—tapping into resources amplifies your candor and clarity. Engage your high school counselor as your strategy architect: they offer transcript insights, recommendation talking points, and essay feedback personalized to your strengths and challenges. Emory’s own admissions outreach—think virtual info sessions, regional visits, webinars—puts current students and officers in direct conversation with you. Don’t overlook the value of networking with Emory alumni, who provide firsthand intel on what sets the university apart. When reaching out, be concise but sincere. Here’s a sample outreach template:

Subject: Prospective Student Seeking Insights on Emory
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am applying to Emory University and would greatly value your perspective on [specific program/experience].
Could we schedule a brief call or exchange a few emails about your time at Emory? Thank you for sharing your insights!
Best,
[Your Name]

C. Authenticity and Reflection
Emory’s application readers have seen every flavor of bravado; what stops them in their tracks is honesty and genuine enthusiasm. Reflect deeply—don’t just ask “Do I want Emory?” but “How do my values and goals match this university’s mission?” Try prompts like: “When did I last stretch my comfort zone for learning or service?”, “What am I most proud of, and why?”, or “Where do I see myself making an impact at Emory and beyond?” Centering application content on these reflections ensures that your narrative isn’t just polished—it’s unmistakably yours.

D. Considering Professional Advice
In a hyper-competitive admissions landscape, outside perspectives can sharpen your narrative edge. Parents, trusted teachers, and college admissions consultants help spot clichés, organize timelines, and push your essays from “decent” to “distinctive.” Formatting questions, strategy for Early Decision, and interview prep are all areas where an expert can upgrade your approach. And if you’re seeking a strategic roadmap, Admit Advantage offers a free consultation for students targeting Emory—an investment in clarity, focus, and confidence when it matters most. Sophisticated strategy plus sincere storytelling: that’s the combination Emory can’t resist.

XI. Comparing Oxford College vs. Emory College of Arts and Sciences

A. Key Differences—Admissions and Academics
Choosing between Oxford College and Emory College of Arts and Sciences isn’t about picking a “safety” or “reach”—it’s about aligning with your ideal collegiate launchpad. Oxford College, set on Emory’s original campus less than 40 miles from Atlanta, offers a dramatically smaller environment: roughly 1,000 total undergrads (compared to around 5,900 at Emory College on the Atlanta campus). The two-year Oxford experience brings a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio and places a premium on discussion-based, interdisciplinary learning. You’re guaranteed close relationships with faculty, a tight-knit residential feel, and leadership opportunities that begin day one since every student is in their first or second year. In contrast, Emory College in Atlanta delivers the full-scale research university experience from the start, with hundreds of clubs, larger lecture formats, and immediate access to Atlanta’s urban resources.

Admissions-wise, both tracks are highly selective. Oxford’s acceptance rate is often slightly higher (recently averaging around 15%, compared to Emory College’s 11%), but don’t let stats lull you—admitted students at both campuses bring impressive GPAs (average weighted: Oxford 4.04 vs. Emory College 4.05) and median SAT/ACT ranges that largely overlap (Oxford SAT middle 50%: 1430–1540; Emory College: 1450–1560). Oxford does, however, consider applicants independently, so you can apply to one or both with separate essays and rationale. If your strengths shine in close-knit settings or you thrive in “lead from the front” opportunities, Oxford deserves serious consideration.

B. Making Your Choice
Picking between Oxford and Emory College means digging deep into your learning style and campus priorities. Oxford is designed for students who crave immersive discussion, quick leadership opportunities, and a rural campus with a close family-like vibe before transitioning into the Atlanta action for junior and senior year. Emory College suits those who are energized by urban life, want immediate access to major research, internships, and are ready to jump into a robust campus culture from day one.

Think about the experience you want for your foundational years: Would small seminar-style classes and living with every member of your class jolt your learning and leadership? Or would you thrive in a sprawling city with options in every direction? Regardless, both paths converge after two years—Oxford graduates feed directly into Emory College for the remainder of their undergraduate studies, ensuring the full Emory degree. As you navigate your application, be precise: explain in your writing why the features of your chosen entry point match perfectly with your aspirations, and acknowledge how the transition ultimately fuels your four-year academic journey. Deciding between the two isn’t about prestige; it’s about fit, vision, and maximizing your early college experience.

XII. Navigating Deferred or Waitlist Status

A. Understanding Emory’s Policies
Being deferred or waitlisted at Emory can feel like getting stuck in college admissions’ version of limbo—but it’s far from a dead end. Typically, Emory defers a portion of Early Decision applicants to the Regular Decision pool, and places a select number of Regular Decision applicants on the waitlist each year. Recent cycles saw approximately 14% of applicants offered a waitlist spot, and of those, about 16% ultimately received an offer of admission . While the odds aren’t sky-high, they’re not zero—so strategic action is essential.

If deferred, focus immediately on substantive updates: send a timely, focused letter of continued interest, highlighting new academic accomplishments, awards, or leadership roles since you first applied. Confirm your Emory enthusiasm with specifics—mentioning a faculty member you connected with or a new facet of campus life that resonates with you. For waitlisted students, similar principles apply. Don’t bombard admissions with updates, but make your continued interest clear, and attach one or two meaningful new pieces—perhaps your latest grade report (especially relevant if your GPA has climbed above last reported averages) or a concise recommendation from a teacher or supervisor.

Remember, students admitted from the waitlist often bring major value-additions: stronger final transcripts, new leadership roles (such as winning a state championship or launching a community initiative), or unexpected honors. Stay patient and execute on polish, not panic—the Emory waitlist is a moving queue, and standout persistence combined with authentic, positive communication can swing the door open when space allows.