What to Do If You Get Rejected by an ABA Grad Program
Heyyy BCBA Ruby here!
Let’s talk about something that no one really prepares you for in the pursuit of becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)—getting rejected from a grad program. It’s one of those gut-wrenching moments that can leave you feeling uncertain about your future, questioning your abilities, or wondering if you even belong in this field.
I’ve been there, and I know how tough it can be. But here’s the thing: rejection doesn’t define you. In fact, it might just be a redirection to a different path that will make you even stronger. So, if you’ve recently faced rejection from an ABA grad program, here’s what I want you to remember:
1. It’s Okay to Feel Disappointed
First things first—let yourself feel whatever you’re feeling. It’s completely natural to be disappointed, frustrated, or even angry after receiving a rejection letter. Pursuing a career as a BCBA takes a lot of dedication, and being told “no” can sting. Don’t suppress those feelings. It’s okay to take a moment to process them before moving forward.
Give yourself the time to reflect on why this rejection hurts and what it means to you. You’ve worked hard to get here, and your feelings are valid. But remember, this is just a chapter in your journey—not the whole story.
2. Reflect and Learn from the Experience
Rejection isn’t always about you being “not good enough.” Sometimes it’s about the specific requirements or the number of spots available. But that doesn’t mean you can’t improve or strengthen your application for the future.
Ask yourself: What can I learn from this? Whether it’s reviewing your GPA, your experience, your personal statement, or your recommendations, there’s often something you can tweak or improve for the next time around.
Tips for reflection:
Did you meet the program’s prerequisites?
Was your application complete and clear?
Did you have enough hands-on experience in the field of ABA?
Was your personal statement compelling and reflective of your passion for ABA?
3. Use This as an Opportunity for Growth
Sometimes rejection can actually be a blessing in disguise. It might be the universe telling you to take a step back and build more experience before applying again. Use this time to gain more hands-on experience, attend workshops or webinars, or even volunteer with organizations that allow you to deepen your understanding of ABA.
Whether it’s taking on a new role or just reading more about behavioral science, the more you grow your skillset, the stronger your application will be. You’ll also be able to present a more polished, well-rounded version of yourself the next time you apply.
4. Get Feedback
If you can, ask for feedback. Many programs are willing to provide constructive feedback to applicants, especially if you’ve made it to the interview stage. They might give you specific suggestions for how to strengthen your application, whether it’s gaining more field experience, improving certain qualifications, or even reworking your personal statement.
Getting feedback allows you to see the areas where you can improve, so you can move forward with actionable steps.
5. Consider Other Programs
While it’s natural to feel attached to the program you’ve applied to, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. There are many ABA grad programs out there that could be a better fit for you! Do your research, talk to alumni, and explore other options.
There are also different formats for ABA grad programs. If you’re having trouble with one, it might be worth looking into others that may offer more flexibility, such as online programs, part-time options, or schools with a more holistic approach to training.
6. Don’t Lose Sight of Your Why
This is probably the most important point—don’t lose sight of why you want to be a BCBA. The road to becoming a behavior analyst isn’t always smooth, and this rejection is just one bump along the way. Rejection doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for this field; it simply means you need to take a different route.
Think about the clients you want to serve, the impact you want to make, and the lives you want to change. Your passion and commitment to the field will keep you going, even when things get tough. Rejection is just one part of the journey—it’s not the end of it.
7. Remember: The Best Things Take Time
Becoming a BCBA is a journey, not a race. The best things in life often take time, effort, and persistence. This setback is just a temporary obstacle, and it doesn’t take away from your ability to succeed. The important thing is that you keep moving forward, no matter how slow the pace might seem.
Some of the most successful BCBAs I know didn’t get into their first-choice program on the first try, but they persevered, and now they’re making a real impact in the field.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been rejected by an ABA grad program, it’s not the end of your dreams. It’s simply an opportunity to reflect, grow, and try again. Take this time to improve yourself, seek feedback, and explore other opportunities. Most importantly, keep your eyes on the bigger picture: becoming a skilled, compassionate BCBA who makes a real difference in people’s lives.
You’ve got this! Keep pushing forward, and I believe you’ll get where you need to be—one step at a time.
