How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest That Actually Works

So you shot your shot, poured your soul into that application, and instead of the sweet, sweet "You're in!" email, you got… a deferral. Or a waitlist spot. I know—it stings. But wipe those tears and put down the sad playlist, because your dream school has not broken up with you. They’re just… keeping their options open. (Sound familiar?)

But here’s the thing: you’re not just an option. You’re the main event. And that’s exactly what your Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) needs to make clear. This is your chance to remind them why you’re that girl/guy/person and why they’d be crazy not to say yes.

✨ The Golden Rules of a LOCI ✨

1. Short and sweet. This isn’t an English essay. We’re talking one page MAX. If Sabrina Carpenter wouldn’t have the attention span for it, it’s too long.
2. Make it personal. Show that you actually want this school, not just any school. Name-drop specific programs, professors, clubs—whatever made you apply in the first place.
3. Flex (but tastefully). You’ve been busy since you applied, right? Competitions, new projects, leadership roles—update them on everything that makes you an even stronger candidate now.
4. Say the magic words. If accepted, you’ll 100% attend. Schools care about their yield rate (fancy term for “we don’t want to get rejected”), so make it clear you’re all in.

What That Looks Like in Action

Let’s look at a LOCI that actually worked and break it down.

📌 STRONG OPENING: Show passion without begging.

“University of Michigan students are vocal about their passions, most of all for the university. Allow me to be vocal that Michigan is my top choice. If I am accepted, I will attend.”

☝️Boom. No rambling, no fluff. This applicant cuts right to the chase: I love Michigan. If I get in, I’m going. That last sentence? Powerful. It directly addresses the school’s biggest fear—low yield.

📌 UPDATES THAT PROVE GROWTH: Show you’re getting better every day.

“I want to update you on some achievements. As a state-level lieutenant governor for the Junior Optimist International Club, I’ve contacted 80+ schools across Michigan and collected 8,000 toys for African children in need.”

The key here? Numbers and impact. If you’ve taken on leadership roles, placed in competitions, or started an ambitious project, say it. And be specific.

📌 STRATEGIC PERSONALIZATION: Show why the school is the only place for you.

“The University of Wisconsin–Madison stands out for its rare blend of intellectual rigor and genuine warmth. The Wisconsin Idea resonates deeply with me—I seek an education not as a mere stepping stone but as a means to serve others.”

What’s brilliant here? They don’t just say I love UW-Madison. They prove they understand what makes the school unique and why they belong there.

Final Tips ✨

💡 No sob stories. They don’t need to hear how you’ve been spiraling since the decision. Confidence, not clinginess.

💡 Proofread, duh. No typos. If you mix up “your” and “you’re,” just withdraw yourself.

💡 Send it ASAP. Don’t wait until April. Schools are making decisions now, so get your LOCI in within a few weeks of your deferral or waitlist notification.

TL;DR: You Got This

A deferral or waitlist isn’t a rejection—it’s a test. The school is asking:

📌 How bad do you want this?
📌 What have you done since you applied?
📌 Are you really going to attend if we say yes?

Your LOCI should answer all of those questions clearly and confidently. If you do it right, you won’t just be a name on their waitlist—you’ll be the student they have to admit.

We often help students and families craft their letters in less than an hour - by helping you realize what accomplishments are worth mentioning, what aspects of the school are perfect for you, and how not to send a template but something in your true voice.

You might be one session away from a winning second look!

A deferral or waitlist spot isn’t a “no.” It’s a “convince me.” And you will. Stay calm, keep working hard, and send that LOCI with confidence. Your dream school isn’t just picking a student—they’re picking the person who fights for what they want.

And that’s you.