What Is the Difference Between Pending And Waiting?
What Is the Difference Between Pending And Waiting?
What Is the Difference Between Pending And Waiting?
When applying to a university or college, understanding your application status can be confusing. Two common terms you might see are Pending and Waiting, which refer to different stages in the admission process. Pending status means your application has been submitted, but it’s still under review. Often, this status indicates that some documents or references, such as recommendation letters or final school results, are still needed or are being verified. It can also mean that you have met the basic requirements, but the college is waiting to see the completion of any in-progress coursework before making a final decision.
No immediate action may be needed unless the admission office contacts you for missing documents. On the other hand, waiting or being on a Waiting List means you are neither accepted nor rejected yet. You meet the admission requirements, but there are currently no available spots in the course or programme you applied to. Your admission depends on whether space becomes available, usually when some accepted students do not register or drop out. This means your chance of getting in depends on how many spots open up, which is why it’s important to apply to multiple institutions to have other options.
Pending shows that your application is still being processed and more information might be needed, while Waiting means your application passed the initial check, but you are waiting for an available place. Understanding these statuses helps you stay informed about your application progress and plan your next steps wisely. If you are on a waiting list, keep in touch with the admissions office and monitor your emails for updates. If your status is pending, ensure you provide any requested documents promptly to move your application along easily. This way, you increase your chances of securing a spot in your chosen college or university.
Read: What Does the Status Document Reloaded Mean
What Is the Difference Between Pending And Waiting?
When applying online to a college, the status “Pending” means your application has been received and is being reviewed. Sometimes, the college is waiting to verify documents or check if you meet all requirements. On the other hand, “Waiting” or being placed on a waitlist means you meet the criteria but there aren’t enough spots available yet. You’re on standby in case a spot opens up if other students don’t accept their offers. Pending shows your application is still in progress, while Waiting means you are waiting for a possible place. Both statuses mean a final decision hasn’t been made yet.
Why Your Application Status Is Pending
Your name has not yet been given the go-ahead to appear on the admission list, as shown by the Pending Admission Status. Additionally, the following could be the cause of your pending admission status:
- Awaiting Grid Review: College coursework and training are currently being reviewed for eligibility
- Course Description: The applicant has been asked to acquire course descriptions for courses listed on their official transcripts or provide additional information for courses specific to the applicant (i.e., student teaching, practicums, seminars, internships).
- Currently Taking Coursework: The applicant is currently taking coursework in order to meet the Education and Training component of the Credential(s).
- Awaiting Additional Coursework: College coursework and training have been reviewed, and it has been determined that the applicant needs additional coursework and/or training to meet eligibility requirements.
- Provide Documents: The applied college may also request you to upload more information to facilitate the verification process.
Requirements For Checking Your Application Status
- Student Name
- Student Number
- Email address
- Telephone Number
How To Check Your Application Status In Colleges
If you have applied for admission to a college for the upcoming academic year, it is important to regularly check your application status to stay informed about your progress. Monitoring your application helps you know if your documents have been received, if your application is being processed, or if any additional information is needed. Here’s how you can check your college application status:
- Visit the Official College Website: Start by going to the official website of the college where you submitted your application. Most colleges provide a dedicated online portal for applicants to track their admission status.
- Log In to Your Application Portal: Use your application login details, which may include your name, application number, student number, or other credentials provided during the application process. Enter these details carefully to access your application information.
- Submit Your Details and Access Status: After entering your login details, click the submit or login button. The portal will display the current status of your application, which could range from received, under review, pending documents, to final decisions such as accepted or rejected.
- Check Your Email for Notifications: Colleges usually communicate important updates about your application via email. You will be notified if your application is complete, if you need to submit additional documents, or if a decision has been made regarding your admission. Always keep an eye on your inbox and check your spam folder to avoid missing any communication.
- Follow Up if Needed: If your application status shows pending or if you don’t receive updates within the expected timeframe, consider reaching out to the admissions office for clarification. Prompt responses can help avoid delays.
Contact Details
- Visit Us: 123 Francis Baard Street, Pretoria, South Africa
- Contact Details: 0800 87 2222 | callcentre@dhet.gov.za
Knowing the difference between “Pending” and “Waiting” statuses during your college or university application process can help you stay calm and well-informed. A “Pending” status means your application is still being reviewed, possibly awaiting additional documents or verification before a final decision. Meanwhile, being “Waiting” or on a waitlist means you fulfill the requirements but are waiting for available spots in your desired programme. Understanding these terms encourages patience and taking proactive steps, such as applying to several institutions to keep your options open. Stay connected with the admissions office, respond quickly to any requests, and watch your notifications closely. For more information and other inquiries, visit the official website. I hope this article is helpful and easy to understand. You can ask your questions and share your opinions in the comment section for a quick response.
