Like seasonal allergies, “senioritis” goes into attack mode around this time each year. Merriam-Webster defines senioritis as “an ebbing of motivation and effort by high school seniors as evidenced by tardiness, absences and lower grades.”

While the first known use of the term “senioritis” was in 1957, the condition hasn’t changed much since then. Here’s how BuzzFeed describes it: “A crippling disease that strikes high school seniors. Symptoms: laziness, an over-excessive wearing of track pants and sweatshirts. Lack of studying, repeated absences and a dismissive attitude. The only known cure is a phenomenon known as graduation.”

Every year there are hundreds of cocky kids who mistakenly believe their college acceptances are ironclad. Colleges vary tremendously in how they handle a “senior slump.” Some give warnings, some place students on academic probation, and some actually reverse their decisions. Far more common than revocation is a warning letter that expresses disappointment and asks for some explanation. Acceptance letters will usually state that the final acceptance is contingent on consistent performance.

Roughly one-third of colleges revoke admissions each year, but most colleges are not likely to unless there is a dramatic decline. Senioritis can be expensive, too. Underperformers can lose scholarships and financial aid packages.

With so many applicants and long waiting lists, colleges may be less willing to gamble on a student who has faltered.