A letter of continued interest (LOCI) is a letter that you send to a school after you have been deferred or placed on their waitlist. It expresses your interest in attending the school and provides any updates since you submitted your early application.
Why Send a LOCI?
Sending a LOCI is a good idea because it demonstrates your interest in the school and can help tip the scales in your favor. Schools often use the waitlist to achieve gender balance, beef up enrollment in certain academic programs, or add certain talents. For schools that track demonstrated interest, a LOCI may matter a bit more.
What to Include in a LOCI?
When writing a LOCI, include the following elements:
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An expression of gratitude for being deferred/waitlisted: Show that you appreciate the school's continued consideration and reiterate your interest in attending if offered a spot.
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A statement about your continued interest in the school: Clearly state that you are still interested in the school and why you think you would be a good fit.
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An acknowledgment that the school is your first choice: If this is true, acknowledge it explicitly.
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A few specifics on why you’re interested in the school: Mention professors, programs, opportunities, facilities, etc. that make you interested in the school.
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Mention if you’ve visited the school: This can further indicate your interest.
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Improved SAT or ACT scores, higher GPA, new awards, honors, or created opportunities: These achievements can impact your chances of admission.
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A closing that reiterates a thank you for time/consideration: End the letter by expressing your gratitude and briefly summarizing why you are interested in the school.
Best Practices for Writing a LOCI
Follow these best practices when writing a LOCI:
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Revisit your submitted application: Think about what you haven't shared with the college since you last applied and use this as an opportunity to update the college on your extracurriculars or personal stories.
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Showgrowth: Reflect on your growth throughout the college admissions process and incorporate this into your letter.
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Demonstrate love for the school: Share specific examples of why you are interested in the school, such as visits, interviews, or interactions with current students or alumni.
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Keep it professional: Be polite and professional in your letter, avoiding any grumbling or negativity.
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Avoid mentioning negative information: Do not include any information that was already stated in your application.
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Proofread carefully: Make sure to proofread your letter for errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Sample LOCI
The LOCI example below illustrates how to structure a LOCI. It is important to note that this is just an example and not meant to be directly copied or used without adaptation.
Example LOCI:
Dear [Admissions Committee],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered again for admission to [School Name]. I am excited to update you on my recent accomplishments and express my continued interest in your esteemed institution.
Since my application to [School Name], I have earned the Gold Medal in the County Science Fair and have been invited to present我的研究成果 at theannual Science and Technology Exhibitionnextmonth. Additionally, I have been recognized with the distinction of being awarded the prestigious [Academic Scholarship]. These accomplishments have not only brought本土荣誉 but have also allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, further bolstering my desire to attend [School Name].
I am particularly impressed by [Specific Aspect of the School], which aligns perfectly with my passions and career aspirations. The supportive and nurturing environment at [School Name], coupled with its leading-edge research facilities and renowned faculty, I believe provides me with the ideal platform to explore, challenge, and expand my horizons.
Moreover, I had the privilege of engaging with [Alumni/Current Student] during a recent information session, who shared their transformative experiences at [School Name]. This open dialogue reignited my enthusiasm for [School Name] and further solidified my resolve to study amidst such inspiring surroundings.
Given my unwavering commitment to [School Name], I am eager to contribute my unique perspectives and valuable insights to the vibrant academic community at [School Name]. Should I be fortunate enough to secure an admission offer, I wholeheartedly commit to embracing the school's core values of [List school-specific_values] and striving towards making a meaningful impact on my chosen field of study.
Thank you once again for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining the [School Name] familia and contributing to its continued success.
Warm Regards,
[Your Name]
