How to Write a Winning Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) if You’re Waitlisted
Waitlisted? Here's How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest that WORKS
It’s a feeling many college applicants know all too well—being caught in the limbo between acceptance and rejection: the waitlist. Getting waitlisted can feel like a pause in your college admissions journey, but it’s truly not the end of the road, in fact, I ultimately got accepted into four schools where I’d been waitlisted, and a well-crafted Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) played a big part in that success. A LOCI is your chance to reinforce your enthusiasm for the school, highlight recent achievements, and demonstrate why you’re an excellent fit. This blog will walk you through three essential elements of a winning LOCI, from reaffirming your commitment to updating the admissions committee with relevant accomplishments—while avoiding common mistakes. Together, let’s make sure your letter leaves a lasting impression and strengthens your chances of admission.
Follow Directions
When you find yourself waitlisted or deferred, it’s natural to want to reach out to the admissions office right away. However, your first step should be to follow any specific instructions provided by the college. Every school handles waitlists and deferrals differently, and some may prefer that students don’t send additional materials. If the college explicitly states not to send a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI), respect their instructions. Sending an unsolicited letter in this case could actually work against you by showing that you’re not following directions.
If the college does invite students to provide updates, this is your opportunity to send a LOCI. In this letter, you can reiterate your interest and share any recent achievements or experiences that strengthen your application. But what if you’re unsure? If the directions aren’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask. A quick, polite email to the admissions office asking, “Would it be appropriate for me to send a letter of continued interest?” can clarify the process without overstepping.
In some cases, the school might not need a LOCI but may ask you to check a box on a form or complete a quick survey to confirm your continued interest. Whatever the request, sticking to the college’s guidelines shows that you’re attentive and respectful of their process—a small but meaningful step that could reflect positively on your application. Remember, your goal is to demonstrate commitment and maturity, and following instructions is a key part of that impression.
Want help writing your LOCI?
Updating the Admissions Committee on NEW Achievements
When updating the admissions committee, it’s important to recognize that they already know the basics of your application—they’re looking for fresh information that reinforces your potential fit. Start your letter with a note of gratitude, thanking them for reconsidering your application, and reaffirm your enthusiasm for the school. If the college is truly your top choice and you would absolutely attend if accepted, let them know; a genuine commitment can leave a strong impression.
The main focus of your update should be on new achievements since you first applied. This might include recent accomplishments, like leadership roles in extracurricular activities, awards, or academic projects you’ve started. If you’ve made a significant improvement in your GPA or test scores, this is the place to highlight it. Even if the school is test-optional, improved scores could help demonstrate your academic progress. Whatever you share, keep it focused on achievements that emphasize your growth and dedication.
If you’ve recently visited the campus, consider mentioning it and what specifically resonated with you about the school. Personal details like a memorable talk with a student, a class visit, or an aspect of campus life you found inspiring can make your letter more compelling. Including two or three “Why Us” points about how the college’s programs, values, or community match your own goals can further strengthen your case.
Lastly, be careful not to repeat anything they already know. Instead, focus on new experiences that add depth to what’s already in your application. For instance, during my waitlist experience, I reached out to professors conducting research in areas I was deeply interested in, attended sessions, and even connected with them one-on-one. Sharing these experiences helped show my genuine passion and engagement with the school’s unique offerings, rather than reiterating what they already knew about my academic background. By focusing on recent experiences and achievements, you make a stronger case for your place in the incoming class.
Avoiding Common LOCI Mistakes
Avoiding common pitfalls in your LOCI is essential to ensuring your letter is effective. While it’s natural to feel anxious about being waitlisted, conveying desperation or frustration in your letter can hurt your chances. Keep your tone positive and forward-looking, focusing on your enthusiasm for the school rather than disappointment about the waitlist decision. Admissions committees want to see resilience and a continued commitment to the school—not stress or negativity.
One of the most common LOCI mistakes is making the letter too long. Admissions officers often have many letters to read, so aim to keep your LOCI concise, ideally no longer than one page. Stay focused on the key updates and reasons why the school is a great fit for you. Including too many details can dilute your message and make it hard for the committee to remember what makes you stand out. Prioritize the 3 most relevant new information that demonstrates your growth, interests, and alignment with the school’s values.
Finally, as mentioned before, avoid repeating information from your original application. Admissions committees already know about your previous achievements and experiences, so try not to rehash your entire application. By keeping your LOCI positive, succinct, and focused on recent developments, you’ll make a stronger impression and show the admissions team that you’re serious, prepared, and excited to attend.
Send your LOCI and Cross your Fingers!
Crafting a thoughtful, well-structured Letter of Continued Interest can make all the difference when you're waitlisted. Remember, your LOCI is not just a letter—it's an opportunity to show growth and make a case for why you’re a perfect fit for their school. Stay positive, be genuine, and keep pushing forward. You've got this!
More Recent Posts
