I personally know a couple of friends who went off the waitlist and got
in Chicago and Darden.
If someone is on the waitlist, it means the applicant is basically
qualified for the program. He or she should have a chance to get off the
waitlist or a good chance of being admitted if she or she re-applies in the
coming year.
The most typical situation the school will consider candidates on waitlist
when some of their admitted students replied that they could not attend. It
is easy to understand if one applicant got admission both from HBS and
Wharton, he or she has to make a tough decision to decline one.
But it may not means when one slot is vacant, all the applicants on the
waitlist are equally competitive or considered. If the admitted applicant
who withdraw was with IT background, the admission committee may first
consider candidates with similar backgrounds. Apart from diversity, a
school will also take into consideration an applicant’s enthusiasm and
commitment towards the program.
Therefore, if you are on the waitlist, proactively and wisely contact the
school is recommended.
Best | 
