Should I Write a Letter of Continued Interest? Your Guide to Securing That Acceptance

So, you’ve applied to your dream college, and now… you wait. The waiting is often the hardest part. But what if you’re waitlisted? Or maybe you’re just feeling a bit uncertain about your application status? That’s where the Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) comes in. But should you write one? And if so, how do you make it count? This article will break down everything you need to know.

What Exactly is a Letter of Continued Interest?

Think of a Letter of Continued Interest as your final, most persuasive plea to a college admissions committee. It’s a communication sent after you’ve received a waitlist offer (or sometimes, after an initial rejection, though this is less common) expressing your unwavering desire to attend their institution. It’s an opportunity to reaffirm your interest, provide updates, and demonstrate why you’d be a valuable addition to their campus. It’s your chance to show the admissions committee you’re still in the game and still eager to play.

When is a Letter of Continued Interest Necessary?

This is the critical first question. Not every situation calls for a LOCI. Generally, you should only write a LOCI if:

  • You are on the waitlist: This is the primary scenario. The LOCI is your chance to make your case for admission.
  • You genuinely want to attend the school: Don’t waste your time (or the admissions committee’s) on a school you’re not truly enthusiastic about.
  • You have something new and significant to share: This could be new accomplishments, improved grades, updated extracurricular involvement, or a deeper understanding of the school.

If you’re not on the waitlist, haven’t received a decision yet, or simply aren’t sure if the school is a good fit, a LOCI is probably unnecessary.

Crafting a Compelling Letter: Key Elements

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of writing a LOCI that grabs attention.

Expressing Your Continued Enthusiasm (and Why)

Start strong. Immediately reiterate your unwavering interest in attending the university. Go beyond generic statements. Be specific. Mention a specific program, professor, or campus resource that excites you. Show that you’ve done your research and that you genuinely see yourself thriving there. For example, “I remain incredibly enthusiastic about attending [University Name], particularly given the opportunity to work with Professor [Professor’s Name] on [Research Topic].”

Providing Meaningful Updates: Show, Don’t Just Tell

This is where you set yourself apart. Don’t just list achievements; elaborate on them. Did you improve your grades? Explain the strategies you used to achieve that improvement. Did you take on a leadership role? Describe the impact you had. Did you participate in a new activity? Detail what you learned and how it aligns with your academic and personal goals.

Reinforcing Your Fit: Connecting the Dots

A crucial element is connecting your updated accomplishments and renewed enthusiasm to the specific offerings of the university. Show how your experiences align with the school’s values, programs, and community. For instance, if you’ve volunteered at a local food bank, connect that to the university’s commitment to social justice and the opportunities for community engagement.

Maintaining a Professional Tone: Writing Style

Keep your LOCI professional. Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Proofread meticulously. Avoid slang and overly casual language. Your letter is a reflection of your maturity and commitment.

Keeping it Concise: Brevity is Key

Admissions officers are busy. Respect their time. Aim for a letter that is one page long, ideally. Get to the point quickly and effectively.

Examples of Strong Updates to Include

So, what kind of information should you include? Here are some examples:

  • Academic Achievements: Improved grades, advanced coursework, awards, or recognition.
  • Extracurricular Involvement: Leadership roles, significant contributions to a team or club, new activities that demonstrate your passions.
  • Personal Growth: Explain how you’ve matured or overcome challenges.
  • New Skills: Highlight skills gained through internships, volunteer work, or independent projects.
  • Deepened Understanding of the University: Mention attending a virtual event, speaking with current students, or visiting the campus (if possible).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your LOCI has the best chance of success:

  • Generic Language: Avoid phrases like “I really want to come to your school.”
  • Complaining or Blaming: Don’t criticize your application or blame anyone for your waitlist status.
  • Exaggerations or Fabrications: Be truthful and authentic.
  • Repeating Information: Focus on new information and updates.
  • Sending Multiple Letters: One well-crafted LOCI is sufficient.
  • Mentioning Other Acceptances (Unless Absolutely Necessary): This can sometimes backfire. Only mention other acceptances if it strengthens your case for the target school (e.g., a program you’re excited about at another school).

The Timing and Delivery of Your LOCI

Timing is crucial. Send your LOCI as soon as possible after receiving your waitlist notification. Aim to send it within a week or two, while the school is still actively considering candidates.

Follow the school’s instructions. Some schools may have specific guidelines on how to submit a LOCI. Adhere to these instructions precisely. If there are no specific instructions, a well-formatted email is usually the best approach.

FAQs to Consider:

What if I haven’t done anything new since I applied?

Even without major new achievements, you can still write a LOCI. Focus on reaffirming your interest, highlighting what specifically appeals to you about the school, and demonstrating your understanding of its values and mission. You can also share any reflections or lessons learned since applying.

Is it okay to send a LOCI if I’m not on the waitlist but haven’t heard back yet?

Generally, no. Unless a school specifically invites you to submit additional information, wait until you receive a decision. Sending a LOCI prematurely could potentially hurt your chances.

How long should I wait to hear back after sending a LOCI?

There’s no set timeframe. Admissions decisions can take time. Be patient and avoid repeatedly contacting the admissions office.

Can I include a new essay or recommendation letter with my LOCI?

Unless specifically requested by the school, avoid submitting additional materials. Focus on the content of your letter and the updates you provide.

What if I get accepted to another school? Should I mention it?

If you’re seriously considering attending another school and need to inform your preferred school of a deadline, you can mention it in your letter. Be sure to frame it as a positive development for you, such as “I have been accepted to [School Name] and am eager to make a decision by [Date]. However, [University Name] remains my top choice…”

Conclusion: Making Your Case

Writing a Letter of Continued Interest is a strategic move. By expressing your unwavering enthusiasm, providing significant updates, and connecting your experiences to the university’s offerings, you can significantly improve your chances of acceptance. Remember to keep your letter concise, professional, and tailored to the specific school. Don’t delay; if you’re on the waitlist and genuinely want to attend, take the time to craft a compelling LOCI. It could be the deciding factor in securing your spot at your dream school.