A well-crafted Letter of Continued Interest can genuinely help a deferred or waitlisted application — but only if it says the right things in the right way. Here is a precise guide.
When to Send It
For deferrals: send your LOCI within two weeks of receiving the deferral notification. The admissions cycle is moving and you want your updated information in your file promptly. For waitlists: send your LOCI within one to two weeks of receiving the waitlist notification, after you have formally accepted your spot on the waitlist.
What to Include
Opening: State clearly that [School Name] remains your first choice and that you are writing to express continued strong interest. Be direct.
New achievements (if any): Share any significant new accomplishments since you submitted your application — a new award, a research publication, a meaningful leadership development, first-semester senior grades if they are strong. Focus on genuinely significant updates, not minor additions.
Specific school connection: Reference something specific about this school — a program, a professor, an approach, a community aspect — that continues to make it your clear top choice. This demonstrates that your interest is genuine and researched, not just desperation.
Closing: Express that you will remain committed and enthusiastic if given the opportunity to attend, and thank them for their continued consideration.
What to Avoid
Do not: list every activity update regardless of significance, express desperation or anxiety, criticize other schools on your list, write more than two paragraphs, or send multiple follow-up emails after the initial LOCI.
Sample Structure
Paragraph 1: [School] remains my clear first choice, and I am writing to reaffirm my strong interest and share a few updates. [1–3 specific new achievements or developments.]
Paragraph 2: [Specific aspect of this school] continues to excite me because [specific reason]. I am confident that [School] is where I will thrive and contribute most meaningfully. I remain enthusiastic about the possibility of joining the Class of [year]. Thank you for your continued consideration.