How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest: A Guide for College Applicants

If you've been waitlisted or deferred from your dream school, don't lose hope! Writing a letter of continued interest can help increase your chances of getting accepted. In this guide, we'll show you how to write a persuasive letter that will make the admissions office take notice.

What is a Letter of Continued Interest?

A letter of continued interest is a written statement from a college applicant expressing their continued desire to attend the school despite not receiving an initial acceptance. The goal of this letter is to show the admissions office that the applicant is still interested in attending the school and to provide additional information that may have been omitted from the original application.

How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest

Step 1: Research the School's Requirements

Before you start writing, make sure you understand the school's requirements for a letter of continued interest. Some schools may have specific guidelines or request that you don't send a letter at all. Make sure to follow the school's instructions to avoid wasting your time.

Step 2: Make a Strong Case

In your letter, you want to make a strong case for why you're a good fit for the school and why you're still interested in attending. This is a negotiation between you and the admissions office, so try to leverage yourself in any way possible. Show the admissions office that you're serious about attending the school and that you're a good investment.

Step 3: Highlight Your Strengths

Use your letter of continued interest as an opportunity to highlight your strengths and accomplishments that may have been overlooked in your original application. This could include awards, extracurricular activities, or any new information that has become available since you submitted your application.

Step 4: Be Personal

Finally, make sure to be personal in your letter. Use a conversational tone and show the admissions office that you're a real person with real interests and passions. Explain why you're so interested in the school and what you hope to accomplish if you're accepted.

A Counter-Argument

While writing a letter of continued interest can be helpful, it's important to remember that it's not a guarantee of acceptance. Admissions offices receive a large number of letters, and they may not be able to give each one the attention it deserves. In some cases, a letter of continued interest may even hurt your chances of being accepted if it's not well-written or if it's perceived as pushy.

Food for Thought

Writing a letter of continued interest can be a great way to show the admissions office that you're still interested in attending the school. However, it's important to keep in mind that a letter is just one piece of the puzzle. Make sure to continue to show your interest in the school through other means, such as visiting campus or reaching out to alumni.