How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest

What Is a Letter of Continued Interest?

A Letter of Continued Interest is a formal communication sent to a college after you have been deferred or placed on the waitlist. Its purpose is to:

• Reaffirm your enthusiasm for the school
• Provide updates since your application
• Strengthen your case for admission

Unlike your original application, a LOCI is concise, targeted, and focused on new information.

OR, watch this quick intro video from CollegeEssayGuy explaining the basic of the purpose, content, and meaning of a LOCI, with examples!

Why a LOCI Matters

After months of preparing applications, writing essays, and waiting anxiously, being deferred or waitlisted can feel frustrating. However, it is not the end of the road. Many colleges give applicants a second chance through a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI). This letter allows you to reaffirm your commitment, update admissions officers on your achievements, and demonstrate that you are still a strong candidate.

A well-crafted LOCI can make a meaningful difference in the admissions process—especially at selective institutions where small distinctions matter. This guide will walk you through exactly how to write an effective LOCI, with clear strategies, structure, and examples of what works.

When Should You Send a LOCI?

Timing is important. Generally:

• Deferred applicants (Early Action/Early Decision): Send your LOCI within 1–3 weeks of receiving your decision
• Waitlisted applicants: Send your LOCI soon after accepting your spot on the waitlist

Avoid sending it too late, as admissions decisions may already be finalized.

Key Principles of a Strong LOCI

Before diving into structure, keep these core principles in mind:

1. Be Genuine and Specific

Admissions officers can tell when a letter is generic. Show real interest by referencing specific programs, professors, or opportunities.

2. Focus on Growth

The most effective LOCIs highlight what has changed since your application—new achievements, leadership roles, or academic progress.

3. Stay Professional and Concise

Your LOCI should typically be 250–500 words. Respect the reader’s time.

4. Avoid Repetition

Do not restate your entire application. Only include meaningful updates or deeper insights.

Structure of an Effective LOCI

1. Opening: Express Gratitude and Continued Interest

Start by thanking the admissions committee and clearly stating your continued interest.

Example:

Thank you for reviewing my application and for offering me a place on the waitlist. I remain extremely interested in attending [College Name], which continues to be one of my top choices.

Keep this section brief but sincere.

2. Reaffirm Why the School Is a Great Fit

This is where you show that your interest is genuine and not superficial.

Discuss:

• Specific academic programs
• Clubs, research opportunities, or campus culture
• Personal connections to the school

Strong approach:

Since submitting my application, I have further explored your Environmental Science program, particularly the emphasis on field-based research. The opportunity to participate in hands-on ecological studies aligns closely with my academic goals.

Note: Avoid vague statements like “I love your campus” or “it’s a great school.” Many top colleges know they are a great institution already, so saying these arbitrary statements won’t mean anything to them and actually may make your letter sound desperate.

3. Provide Meaningful Updates

This is the most important part of your LOCI.

Include:

• Improved grades or academic achievements
• Awards or recognitions
• Leadership roles or new responsibilities
• Projects, internships, or extracurricular growth

Example:

Since submitting my application, I was elected captain of my water polo team, where I now lead weekly training sessions and coordinate team strategy. Additionally, I earned first place at a regional science competition for my project on water filtration systems.

Focus on impact and growth, not just listing activities.

4. Connect Updates Back to the School

Don’t just list accomplishments—tie them back to why you are a strong fit.

Example:

These experiences have strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my interest in collaborative problem-solving, qualities I look forward to contributing to [College Name]’s community.

This shows intentionality and alignment.

5. Reaffirm Commitment (If Appropriate)

If the school is your top choice, you can state that you would enroll if admitted—but only if it is true.

Example:

If admitted, I would be excited to enroll and contribute to the campus community.

Be honest. Admissions officers value integrity.

6. Closing: Polite and Professional

End with appreciation and openness.

Example:

Thank you again for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Writing Too Much

Long letters can hurt more than help. Stay focused.

2. Sounding Desperate or Entitled

Avoid phrases like:

• “I deserve to be admitted”
• “You made a mistake”

Instead, remain respectful and confident.

3. Repeating Your Application

Admissions officers already read your file. Add value instead.

4. Including Irrelevant Updates

Not every update is worth mentioning. Focus on meaningful achievements.

5. Being Generic

A vague LOCI signals low effort. Specificity is key.

Example LOCI (Condensed)

Dear Admissions Committee,

Thank you for reviewing my application and for placing me on the waitlist. I remain highly interested in attending [College Name], as I believe it is an excellent fit for my academic and personal goals.

Since submitting my application, I have taken on new leadership responsibilities as captain of my water polo team, organizing practices and mentoring younger players. Additionally, I received recognition at a regional science fair for my research on sustainable water filtration.

These experiences have strengthened my leadership and problem-solving skills, which I am eager to bring to your collaborative academic environment. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to engage in undergraduate research within your environmental science program.

Thank you again for your time and consideration. Please let me know if I can provide any additional information.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Final Tips for Success

• Proofread carefully: Errors can weaken your credibility
• Use a professional tone: Treat it like formal correspondence
• Send it correctly: Follow the college’s instructions (portal, email, etc.)
• Don’t over-send: One strong LOCI is enough unless significant updates arise

Conclusion

A Letter of Continued Interest is your opportunity to stay in the game. While it does not guarantee admission, a thoughtful and well-written LOCI can reinforce your candidacy and show admissions officers that you are both committed and evolving.

Focus on authenticity, meaningful updates, and clear alignment with the school. If done well, your LOCI can transform a “maybe” into a “yes.”

If you want more tips related to college admission articles and tips, please visit our guide on how admissions officers read your application to gain insider tips on how to optimize your chances!