What is a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) - and How Do You Write One?
If you’ve been placed on a college’s waitlist or deferred after applying Early Action or Early Decision, you might be wondering what you can do to improve your chances of admission. One powerful step: sending a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI).
This brief, professional letter lets the admissions office know you’re still very interested in attending — and that you're serious about becoming part of their community.
What is a Letter of Continued Interest?
A Letter of Continued Interest is a short note that students send to colleges after being deferred or waitlisted. It serves two main purposes:
Reaffirm your commitment to the school — especially if it's your first choice.
Provide any meaningful updates since you submitted your original application.
It’s not required, but it can help distinguish you from other applicants who don’t follow up.
When Should You Send a LOCI?
After a deferral (Early Action or Early Decision): Send it in January, shortly after decisions are released.
After being waitlisted: Send it within a week or two of being notified, ideally before mid-April when schools start finalizing their freshman class.
Tip: Always check if the school has specific instructions about waitlist communication. Some discourage additional materials — in that case, don’t send a LOCI unless explicitly allowed.
What to Include in a LOCI
Keep it short (300–500 words), sincere, and specific. Here’s what to include:
Gratitude and Reaffirmation
Thank the admissions committee for reviewing your application.
Clearly state that the school remains a top choice and that you would attend if admitted (if true).
Meaningful Updates
New grades, awards, test scores, leadership roles, or personal achievements since you applied.
Anything that reinforces your academic and personal fit for the school.
Specific Reasons Why You Still Want to Attend
Mention a particular program, professor, club, or experience that aligns with your goals.
Professional Tone
Avoid over-the-top language. Be honest, optimistic, and respectful.
Sample Opening
Dear [Admissions Committee or Regional Admissions Officer's Name],
Thank you for reviewing my application and placing me on the waitlist for the Class of 2029. I remain deeply interested in [College Name], and if admitted, I would be thrilled to attend.
Sample Closing
Thank you again for considering my application. I remain enthusiastic about the possibility of joining the [College Name] community and hope to have the opportunity to contribute to campus life in meaningful ways.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Final Tips
Send it as a PDF or through the school’s applicant portal if possible.
Proofread carefully. This is a professional communication.
Don't send multiple LOCIs. One thoughtful letter is better than several repetitive ones.
Bottom Line
A Letter of Continued Interest won't guarantee admission — but it can show maturity, initiative, and genuine enthusiasm. In a competitive applicant pool, that small gesture can make a meaningful difference.
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