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What Is a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)?
A LOCI is a brief letter that students send to a college where they’ve been waitlisted or deferred. Its purpose is to:
- Reinforce your interest: Admissions officers want to know if you’re still serious about attending. A LOCI confirms your commitment.
- Highlight recent achievements: If you’ve earned awards, improved your grades, taken on leadership roles, or excelled in extracurricular activities, sharing these updates can strengthen your application.
- Demonstrate personal and academic growth: Beyond achievements, reflect on any meaningful experiences that have shaped you since submitting your application—whether it’s starting a new project, overcoming a challenge, or deepening your passion for a subject.
A well-crafted LOCI can improve your chances of getting off the waitlist by demonstrating to the admissions committee that you’re dedicated, proactive, and still enthusiastic about their school.
How to Write an Effective LOCI
Your letter should be concise and meaningful. Here’s how to structure it:
1. Start with a strong introduction
Open your letter by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to remain on the waitlist. Then, clearly state your continued interest in the school and why it remains your top choice.
Example:
Dear (admissions officer’s name),
I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my continued enthusiasm for (university) and share some exciting updates since I submitted my application.
2. Share updates
Admissions officers want to know what has changed since you applied. Focus on achievements that strengthen your application, such as:
- Improved grades
- Awards or honors
- Leadership roles
- Extracurricular involvement
- New projects, research, or internships
Example:
Since my initial application, I’ve stepped into a leadership role as the president of my school’s Environmental Club. I led a campus-wide composting initiative that reduced waste by (blank)%, sparking meaningful conversations about sustainability. That experience strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my interest in environmental science, one of the many reasons I’m drawn to (university) and its (specific sustainability program or research opportunity).
Many colleges provide guidance on the additional materials they accept from deferred or waitlisted applicants. For example, some universities recommend submitting updated grades, new standardized test scores, or additional letters of recommendation. Be sure to check the school’s admissions website or reach out directly to confirm what updates they allow. Some institutions, like Northeastern University, advise deferred candidates to submit their first trimester, semester, or mid-year high school grades and to upload a LOCI or supplemental materials through their application portal.
3. Emphasize commitment
Admissions committees want to know why their school is the best fit for you and how you’ll contribute to their campus community.
- Reference specific academic programs, professors, or campus initiatives that align with your goals.
- Explain how you envision yourself thriving at the school.
Example:
I recently completed an independent research project exploring the link between urban development and local biodiversity. After months of fieldwork and data analysis, I presented my findings at a regional science fair, earning second place in the environmental science category. I’m particularly excited about (university’s) commitment to undergraduate research and am eager to contribute to projects like (a relevant program or student organization).
4. Close with gratitude
End your letter by reiterating your strong desire to attend and your commitment to accepting an offer of admission. Thank the admissions office for their time and consideration.
Example:
If admitted, I would be thrilled to join the (university) community. Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide to support my application.
Sincerely,
(Your name)
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What Not to Include in a LOCI
- Complaints: Avoid expressing disappointment or frustration about being waitlisted. Keep your tone positive and professional.
- Repeating your original application: A LOCI should provide new updates rather than rehash what admissions officers have already read.
- Excessive length: One page is ideal. Admissions officers have limited time to review additional materials.
- Demands: Do not pressure the school for a decision or make unrealistic promises.
- Generic praise: Instead of vague compliments about the university, be specific about why it’s the right fit for you.
How Long Should a LOCI Be?
Your letter should be no longer than one page, around 300-400 words. Keep it clear, focused, and succinct while highlighting your enthusiasm and progress.
Tips for Writing a Strong LOCI
- Send it promptly: Aim to submit your LOCI within a few weeks of receiving your waitlist decision to show your continued enthusiasm.
- Keep it focused: Stick to one page, prioritizing meaningful updates rather than rehashing your original application.
- Let your voice shine: Write naturally and authentically—admissions officers want to hear from you, not a template.
- Maintain a positive tone: Express excitement about the school and your eagerness to contribute, rather than dwelling on disappointment.
- Proofread: Grammatical errors can weaken your message. Ask a teacher, mentor, or counselor to review your letter before submitting it.
Tips for Writing a Strong LOCI
A strong LOCI can make a meaningful difference in your college admissions journey. If you’re looking for personalized support in writing your LOCI or strengthening your application, let Aralia make that process easier. Our expert teachers are here to guide you through the admissions process with confidence and help you achieve your academic goals.
