What to Include in an Appeal Letter or Statement:

Schools are looking for new and compelling information in your appeal. Consider including:

  • New awards, honors, scholarships, volunteer work, employment or other relevant experiences.
  • Changes in health or living situation that could impact your academics.
  • Clarifications of missing information or corrections of mistakes in your application.
  • Reasons you are “place-bound” and unable to move away for college.

Additionally:

  • Indicate if there is a trend of improvement in your academic performance.
  • Highlight your GPA for the last 20-30 units and/or your major if it is outstanding.
Important things to note:

  • The chance of an admissions decision being overturned is rare but does happen.

  • You cannot appeal if you have not met minimum eligibility requirements for admissions.

  • Contact the university to ask why you were not admitted. While some universities may not provide a specific reason, you can try to get more information to address the right issues in your appeal.

  • Ensure you have new and compelling information to share; do not simply reiterate what you already included in your application.

  • Some universities do not allow additional materials with your appeal. If other documents are allowed, consider submitting:

    • A short note from each instructor indicating performance this semester.

    • 2-3 letters of recommendation from instructors (note that some institutions will not consider any letters of recommendation).

    • Other documentation that supports your new and compelling information (e.g., doctor’s records to prove illness, etc.)

  • Most universities have appeal deadlines; be sure to submit your appeal on time.

  • All items submitted will not be returned, so send copies rather than originals.

  • Before submitting your appeal, review your submitted application to check for any possible mistakes. Consider connecting with a counselor to review before you submit!