I’ve been through the grueling process of college admissions, so I know firsthand how disheartening it can be to land on a waitlist.
But all is not lost. A well-crafted letter of continued interest (LOCI) can make a significant impact.
Here’s how to write a letter of continued interest:
Write a letter of interest by expressing gratitude, updating recent achievements, explaining why the school remains your top choice, and reaffirming your commitment to enroll if accepted. Keep the letter concise, professional, and focused on significant new information.
Keep reading to learn how to avoid common mistakes, stand out, and get the results you want.
What Is a Letter of Continued Interest?
A Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) is a formal communication sent to a college or university to express your sustained enthusiasm for attending their institution despite being waitlisted or deferred.
This letter serves as a testament to your unwavering interest in the school.
It also highlights any new achievements or developments that bolster your application.
Types of Letters of Continued Interest
- Waitlist LOCI: Sent after being placed on a waitlist. It emphasizes your commitment to enroll if accepted.
- Deferral LOCI: Sent after a deferral decision. It updates the admissions office on any new accomplishments and reiterates your strong desire to attend.
- Post-Interview LOCI: Sent after an interview if no decision has been made. It serves to reinforce your interest and update the school on any relevant developments.
What to Include in a LOCI
- An introduction expressing gratitude and reaffirming interest.
- Updates on academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal milestones.
- A closing statement reiterating your enthusiasm and commitment to attend if admitted.
This letter should be concise, respectful, and genuine. It’s not about rehashing your application but rather about showing growth, persistence, and a continued desire to be part of the institution.
How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest (Complete Guide)
Writing a compelling Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) requires strategy, sincerity, and structure.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting a letter that will make a strong impact.
Step 1: Opening Act – Gratitude and Reaffirmation
Start your letter by expressing gratitude and reaffirming your interest. This sets a positive tone and reminds the admissions office of your enthusiasm.
Example Opening:
“Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to [University’s Name]. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.”
Step 2: Highlight Reel – Updates and Achievements
Next, showcase any significant updates or achievements since your original application. This could include academic awards, new test scores, extracurricular accomplishments, or personal milestones.
Tips for Effective Updates:
- Be Specific: Detail the achievements clearly. For example, “I was recently awarded the National Merit Scholarship.”
- Be Relevant: Only include updates that add value to your application.
- Be Concise: Keep this section focused and avoid unnecessary elaboration.
Example Highlight:
“Since submitting my application, I have achieved a few notable accomplishments. I scored 1500 on my SAT, an improvement from my previous score of 1450. I also led my debate team to win the state championship, enhancing my leadership and public speaking skills.”
Step 3: Personal Connection – Why This School?
Reiterate why you are particularly interested in this school. Mention specific programs, professors, or campus culture aspects that align with your goals and values.
Crafting a Personal Connection:
- Do Your Homework: Research the school thoroughly to mention unique aspects.
- Be Genuine: Share personal anecdotes or experiences that connect you to the school.
- Be Detailed: Specificity shows you have a deep interest and understanding of the school.
Example Personal Connection:
“What continues to draw me to [University’s Name] is the innovative curriculum offered by the School of Engineering, particularly the hands-on project opportunities in the Maker Lab. Additionally, my campus visit last fall allowed me to experience the vibrant community and confirmed my desire to contribute to such a dynamic environment.”
Step 4: Future Vision – Goals and Aspirations
Discuss how attending this school will help you achieve your future goals. This section should align your aspirations with what the school offers.
Illustrating Future Goals:
- Align with School Strengths: Show how the school’s resources will help you.
- Be Ambitious yet Realistic: Present clear, attainable goals.
- Connect Personally and Professionally: Balance personal growth and professional aspirations.
Example Future Vision:
“Attending [University’s Name] will provide me with unparalleled opportunities to grow both personally and academically. The interdisciplinary approach to education, especially through the [Specific Program], aligns perfectly with my ambition to develop sustainable energy solutions. I am eager to learn from esteemed faculty such as Professor [Name], whose research on renewable energy technologies deeply inspires me.”
Step 5: Closing Encore – Reinforce Commitment
End your LOCI with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to enroll if admitted. This leaves a lasting impression of your dedication.
Crafting a Strong Closing:
- Be Sincere: Authenticity resonates more than anything.
- Be Clear: Clearly state your intention to enroll if accepted.
- Be Grateful: Thank the admissions committee again for their time and consideration.
Example Closing:
“I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending [University’s Name] if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the [University’s Mascot] family.”
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Insider Tips for a Stellar LOCI
Take your LOCI to the next level with these tips:
- Timing Matters – Send your LOCI as soon as possible after receiving the waitlist or deferral notice. This shows promptness and serious interest.
- Maintain Professionalism – Keep a formal tone, proper grammar, and a professional format. Your LOCI reflects your maturity and readiness for college.
- Follow Instructions – Some schools have specific guidelines for submitting LOCIs. Follow these to the letter to ensure your document is considered.
- Stay Positive – Focus on your achievements and growth rather than disappointment about not being accepted initially. A positive tone leaves a better impression.
- Seek Feedback – Have a trusted teacher, mentor, or college counselor review your LOCI before sending it. Fresh eyes can catch errors and offer valuable suggestions.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Avoid Repetition: Don’t rehash your original application. Highlight new and relevant information.
- Avoid Excessive Length: Keep your LOCI concise, ideally one page.
- Avoid Desperation: Show enthusiasm without appearing desperate. Balance excitement with professionalism.
Checklist
Before hitting send, ensure your LOCI:
- Expresses Gratitude: Starts with a thank you.
- Includes Updates: Highlights new achievements.
- Shows Personal Connection: Reiterates why the school is your top choice.
- Outlines Future Goals: Connects your aspirations with the school’s offerings.
- Reinforces Commitment: Ends with a clear statement of intent to enroll.
Check out this helpful video about how to write a letter of continued interest:
How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest After Being Waitlisted vs Deferred?
Writing a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) after being waitlisted versus deferred involves some key differences:
- Timing:
- Waitlisted: Send your LOCI shortly after receiving the waitlist notification, ideally within a week or two. This shows promptness and keeps you top-of-mind for the admissions committee.
- Deferred: Timing can be more flexible but aim to send your LOCI shortly after the deferral notice, usually within a few weeks. If there’s a specific deadline for updates, adhere to it.
- Content:
- Waitlisted: Focus on reaffirming your commitment to enroll if admitted. Highlight significant new achievements and updates since your application. Emphasize your continued interest and why the school remains your top choice.
- Deferred: While reaffirming your interest is important, also address any weaknesses or areas for improvement mentioned in your deferral notice. Provide updates on ongoing projects or upcoming achievements that might not have been included in your original application.
- Tone:
- Waitlisted: Maintain a tone of enthusiasm and readiness to join the school immediately. Show your eagerness and how you can contribute to the incoming class.
- Deferred: Balance enthusiasm with a sense of patience. Express understanding of the competitive nature of the admissions process and highlight your ongoing commitment to personal and academic growth.
- Additional Information:
- Waitlisted: Include any new grades, awards, or accomplishments that have occurred since your initial application. If possible, include updates on how you’ve engaged with the school (e.g., attending events, communicating with faculty or current students).
- Deferred: Address any specific feedback from your deferral letter. Mention how you are addressing any suggested areas for improvement and provide updates that strengthen your original application. Highlight any upcoming achievements or improvements that are in progress.
- Commitment Statement:
- Waitlisted: Clearly state that if admitted, you will enroll. This can influence the admissions committee if they are unsure about your intentions.
- Deferred: While showing your strong interest, be mindful of any instructions regarding updates. Indicate your continued enthusiasm without being overly repetitive.
- Length:
- Both: Keep the LOCI concise, ideally one page. Ensure that every sentence adds value and is relevant to your situation.
Summary of Key Differences
| Aspect | Waitlisted | Deferred |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Immediate response, within a week or two | Flexible, within a few weeks |
| Content | Reaffirm commitment, highlight new updates | Address weaknesses, provide ongoing updates |
| Tone | Enthusiastic and ready | Enthusiastic but patient |
| Additional Info | New achievements, engagement with school | Address deferral feedback, strengthen app |
| Commitment | Clear statement of intent to enroll | Show strong interest without overrepeating |
| Length | One page, concise and relevant | One page, concise and relevant |
Letter of Continued Interest Template
A good template can guide you in writing an effective LOCI.
Below is a Mad Libs style template to help structure your letter. Fill in the blanks with your personal information and specific updates.
Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to [University’s Name]. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have achieved several notable accomplishments. For example, [Achievement 1], [Achievement 2], and [Achievement 3]. These achievements have further fueled my desire to join the [University’s Name] community.
What continues to draw me to [University’s Name] is [Specific Program/Department/Professor], which aligns perfectly with my interest in [Field of Study]. Additionally, [Personal Experience or Visit], reinforced my eagerness to contribute to [University’s Name]’s vibrant community.
Attending [University’s Name] will provide me with unparalleled opportunities to achieve my goal of [Career/Personal Goal]. I am particularly excited about [Specific Resource or Opportunity at the University] and how it will help me [Specific Outcome or Achievement].
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending [University’s Name] if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the [University’s Mascot] family.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Letter of Continued Interest Examples
Below are 10 different examples of LOCIs tailored to various circumstances.
Each example demonstrates how to personalize and structure your letter based on your unique situation.
Example 1: Academic Improvement
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to Harvard University. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have made significant academic progress. I retook my SAT and improved my score from 1420 to 1550. Additionally, I was awarded the National Merit Scholarship and achieved a 4.0 GPA in my senior year.
What continues to draw me to Harvard is the robust Economics program, particularly the Behavioral Economics Research Center. My campus visit last summer and the engaging conversations I had with current students have only deepened my desire to be a part of the Harvard community.
Attending Harvard will provide me with the necessary tools to pursue my goal of becoming an economic policy advisor. I am particularly excited about the interdisciplinary opportunities and the chance to work with Professor Sendhil Mullainathan, whose work on behavioral economics inspires me.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending Harvard if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Crimson family.
Sincerely,
John Doe
john.doe@email.com
Example 2: Extracurricular Achievement
Dear Mr. Smith,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to Stanford University. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have had several notable extracurricular achievements. I led my robotics team to win the state championship, and our project was recognized for its innovative design. Additionally, I was elected president of the student council, where I initiated several successful community service projects.
What continues to draw me to Stanford is the emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, particularly the d.school’s innovative approach to problem-solving. My visit to Stanford last year and the vibrant campus culture left a lasting impression on me.
Attending Stanford will enable me to pursue my passion for robotics and leadership. I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded peers and engage in hands-on projects that make a real-world impact.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending Stanford if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Cardinal family.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
jane.doe@email.com
Example 3: Personal Milestone
Dear Ms. Lee,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to Princeton University. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have reached a significant personal milestone. I published my first novel, which has received positive reviews and has been nominated for a regional literary award. This experience has further deepened my passion for creative writing and storytelling.
What continues to draw me to Princeton is the distinguished Creative Writing program, especially the opportunity to learn from renowned authors such as Professor Joyce Carol Oates. My campus visit last fall and the welcoming environment of the writing community solidified my desire to attend Princeton.
Attending Princeton will provide me with the platform to hone my craft and achieve my goal of becoming a successful author. I am particularly excited about the Princeton Arts Fellowship and the chance to participate in the Writers’ Studio.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending Princeton if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Tiger family.
Sincerely,
Alice Smith
alice.smith@email.com
Example 4: Leadership Experience
Dear Mr. Anderson,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to Yale University. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have taken on a leadership role as the captain of my school’s debate team. Under my leadership, our team advanced to the national finals, and I was awarded the Best Speaker award. This experience has enhanced my public speaking and leadership skills.
What continues to draw me to Yale is the vibrant intellectual community and the strong emphasis on debate and discourse. My visit to Yale last spring and the stimulating conversations with current students have only strengthened my desire to be part of such a dynamic environment.
Attending Yale will help me achieve my goal of pursuing a career in law and public policy. I am particularly excited about the opportunities at the Yale Debate Association and the chance to engage in rigorous academic discussions.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending Yale if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Bulldog family.
Sincerely,
Robert Brown
robert.brown@email.com
Example 5: Artistic Achievement
Dear Ms. Martinez,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have had a significant artistic achievement. My painting series was featured in a local gallery, and I received the Best Emerging Artist award. This recognition has further motivated me to pursue a career in fine arts.
What continues to draw me to RISD is the exceptional Fine Arts program and the opportunity to work with talented faculty and peers. My visit to RISD last year and the inspiring campus environment confirmed my desire to be part of such a creative community.
Attending RISD will provide me with the resources and mentorship to develop my artistic skills and achieve my goal of becoming a professional artist. I am particularly excited about the access to state-of-the-art studios and the vibrant art scene in Providence.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending RISD if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the RISD family.
Sincerely,
Emily Davis
emily.davis@email.com
Example 6: Community Service
Dear Mr. Wilson,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to Georgetown University. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have undertaken several impactful community service projects. I organized a successful fundraiser for a local homeless shelter, raising over $10,000. Additionally, I led a volunteer team that provides tutoring and mentorship to underprivileged children in my community.
What continues to draw me to Georgetown is the university’s strong commitment to social justice and community service. My campus visit last fall and the emphasis on Jesuit values resonated deeply with me and confirmed my desire to attend Georgetown.
Attending Georgetown will enable me to further my passion for service and achieve my goal of working in public health. I am particularly excited about the opportunities at the Center for Social Justice and the chance to engage in meaningful community initiatives.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending Georgetown if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Hoya family.
Sincerely,
Michael Johnson
michael.johnson@email.com
Example 7: New Internship Experience
Dear Ms. Clark,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to the University of California, Berkeley. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have gained valuable experience through a new internship. I am currently interning at a leading environmental consulting firm, where I am involved in sustainability projects and environmental impact assessments. This experience has deepened my commitment to environmental science and policy.
What continues to draw me to UC Berkeley is the renowned Environmental Science program and the university’s strong focus on sustainability. My visit to Berkeley last summer and the campus’s dedication to environmental initiatives have further motivated me to attend.
Attending UC Berkeley will provide me with the knowledge and skills to pursue my goal of becoming an environmental consultant. I am particularly excited about the research opportunities at the Berkeley Institute for the Environment and the chance to learn from esteemed faculty members.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending UC Berkeley if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Golden Bear family.
Sincerely,
Sarah Lee
sarah.lee@email.com
Example 8: Personal Growth
Dear Mr. Martinez,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to the University of Chicago. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have experienced significant personal growth. I have been working on a personal project to develop a mental health awareness campaign in my community. This initiative has taught me valuable lessons in leadership, empathy, and resilience.
What continues to draw me to the University of Chicago is the commitment to intellectual curiosity and the Core Curriculum’s interdisciplinary approach. My visit to UChicago last fall and the stimulating academic environment confirmed my desire to be part of this vibrant community.
Attending the University of Chicago will enable me to further my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist and advocate for mental health. I am particularly excited about the opportunities at the Center for Cognitive and Social Neuroscience and the chance to engage in impactful research.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending the University of Chicago if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Maroon family.
Sincerely,
David Kim
david.kim@email.com
Example 9: Improved Test Scores
Dear Ms. Thompson,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to Duke University. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have improved my standardized test scores. I retook the ACT and increased my score from 30 to 34. Additionally, I achieved a 5 on my AP Calculus BC exam, which demonstrates my continued academic dedication and growth.
What continues to draw me to Duke is the innovative Pratt School of Engineering and the collaborative research opportunities available. My visit to Duke last year and the engaging discussions with current students have further solidified my desire to attend.
Attending Duke will provide me with the tools and resources to pursue my goal of becoming an engineer focused on renewable energy. I am particularly excited about the opportunities at the Duke Energy Initiative and the chance to work on cutting-edge projects.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending Duke if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Blue Devil family.
Sincerely,
Rachel Green
rachel.green@email.com
Example 10: Personal Connection to School
Dear Mr. Walker,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to Northwestern University. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have deepened my connection to Northwestern through several interactions with alumni and current students. These conversations have provided me with valuable insights into the university’s culture and the supportive community that thrives at Northwestern.
What continues to draw me to Northwestern is the Medill School of Journalism and the university’s commitment to experiential learning. My visit to Northwestern last summer and the inspiring environment of the journalism program have only increased my eagerness to attend.
Attending Northwestern will enable me to pursue my goal of becoming an investigative journalist. I am particularly excited about the opportunities at the Medill Investigative Lab and the chance to learn from experienced professionals in the field.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending Northwestern if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Wildcat family.
Sincerely,
Tom Harris
tom.harris@email.com
Example 11: Career-Focused Updates
Dear Ms. Gonzalez,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my gratitude for the opportunity to remain under consideration for admission to the University of Pennsylvania. I want to reaffirm my strong interest in your esteemed institution.
Since submitting my application, I have focused on gaining career-relevant experience. I completed an internship at a leading financial firm, where I was involved in data analysis and market research. This experience has solidified my interest in pursuing a career in finance.
What continues to draw me to the University of Pennsylvania is the renowned Wharton School and the comprehensive finance curriculum. My visit to Penn last fall and the dynamic campus environment have further strengthened my desire to attend.
Attending the University of Pennsylvania will provide me with the skills and knowledge to achieve my goal of becoming a financial analyst. I am particularly excited about the opportunities at the Wharton Investment Management Club and the chance to participate in real-world finance projects.
I am truly grateful for your consideration and remain deeply committed to attending Penn if given the opportunity. Thank you for your time and for allowing me to express my continued interest. I eagerly await the possibility of joining the Quaker family.
Sincerely,
Liam Evans
liam.evans@email.com
FAQs About Letters of Continued Interest
Let me answer some questions you still might have about how to write a letter of continued interest.
How Should I Format a Letter of Continued Interest?
Format your LOCI like a formal business letter.
Start with your contact information at the top, followed by the date, and then the admissions office’s contact information.
Use a formal salutation like “Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name].” Structure your letter with clear paragraphs: an introduction expressing gratitude, a section detailing updates and achievements, a part explaining your continued interest in the school, and a closing statement reiterating your commitment.
Maintain a professional tone throughout, use a readable font like Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the text single-spaced with double spacing between paragraphs.
I probably don’t have to remind you to proofread thoroughly to avoid embarrassing errors.
What Not to Say in a Letter of Continued Interest?
Avoid expressing frustration or disappointment about being waitlisted or deferred.
Don’t rehash your entire application or include irrelevant details.
Steer clear of sounding desperate or making exaggerated claims. Avoid negative language or criticism of the admissions process.
Refrain from mentioning other schools you’re considering, as this can dilute your expressed commitment.
Don’t include new recommendations or ask for interviews unless explicitly allowed by the school.
Finally, avoid making promises or statements that you cannot back up with concrete evidence.
Keep the tone positive, professional, and focused on your genuine interest and recent achievements.
How Long Should a Letter of Continued Interest Be?
A LOCI should be concise yet comprehensive, typically one page in length.
Aim for around 300 to 500 words.
This length allows you to update the admissions office on significant developments and reiterate your interest without overwhelming them with too much information.
Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose – expressing gratitude, detailing new achievements, explaining why the school remains your top choice, and reinforcing your commitment to enroll if admitted.
Being succinct while providing valuable updates shows respect for the admissions committee’s time and keeps your letter impactful and focused.
Final Thoughts: How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest
A well-crafted LOCI can significantly impact your admission chances. Stay positive, be concise, and highlight recent achievements.
You got this!