What is the difference btw a HOLD and a WAITLIST

[jd.me?]

Which is better, a hold or a waitlist? what is the difference? Any recommendations on how to handle a hold (additional essay etc.)

[thisis1984]

From my understanding, a hold means they're delaying making a decision on your application to see if they have space, and a waitlist means that you're not their first choice but they'll take you if their first choices don't matriculate.  I think a hold is better than a waitlist -- it's kind of like a "pre-waitlist" -- meaning they want to accept you but aren't sure they have the space.  At least this is how a school that put me on "hold" made it sound.  They said "we do have a waitlist, and this is not it" (meant to be encouraging).   

[trayd79]

When the the "on holds" typically let you know if your in or not?

[inthesun]

When the the "on holds" typically let you know if your in or not?

I was put on hold at Wisconsin and accepted a couple of weeks later.  It was pretty quick for me.

[benfisu]

When the the "on holds" typically let you know if your in or not?

I was put on hold at Wisconsin and accepted a couple of weeks later.  It was pretty quick for me.

Did you send any additional information or call after you were put on hold?

[mxpocc]

When the the "on holds" typically let you know if your in or not?

I was put on hold at Wisconsin and accepted a couple of weeks later.  It was pretty quick for me.

Did you send any additional information or call after you were put on hold?

Case put me on hold yesterday; It would be a great idea to at least send another letter, a statement of interest further explaining how much you want to go there etc.

[inthesun]

When the the "on holds" typically let you know if your in or not?

I was put on hold at Wisconsin and accepted a couple of weeks later.  It was pretty quick for me.

Did you send any additional information or call after you were put on hold?

No.  I'm sure it wouldn't hurt to do so, though.