Standing Out After Deferral: A Guide to Letters of Continued Interest

For students navigating the stress of a deferral or waitlist decision, the Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) can be a powerful tool to reignite hope. ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores how students can craft an effective LOCI, offering guidance on what to include, how to highlight recent achievements, and why professionalism matters. This episode empowers students to approach the admissions process with resilience and confidence, ensuring their voices are heard even in uncertain moments.

For additional thoughts from Director Alderdice, visit coreyalderdice.com.

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Learn more about ASMSA at asmsa.org/thrive.

Transcript

We’re diving into a topic that might feel all too relevant for many students applying to selective colleges: letters of continued interest, or LOCIs. If you’ve been deferred or waitlisted, you’re likely navigating a whirlwind of emotions—disappointment, confusion, and maybe even a little hope. Today, I want to guide you through what a LOCI is, why it matters, and how to make yours stand out.  So listen carefully, as it can “low-key” help your chances of moving to the acceptance list.

Let’s start with the basics. When you apply Early Action or Early Decision, you’re hoping for a clear answer—yes or no. But sometimes, you end up in limbo. A deferral or waitlist decision isn’t a rejection; it’s more like a “maybe.” It means the admissions committee sees potential in your application but wants more time or additional context before making a final decision. This is where the LOCI comes in. Think of it as your chance to politely knock on the door again and remind them why you deserve a spot.

Now, what exactly is a LOCI? At its core, it’s a letter you send to the admissions office to reaffirm your interest in attending their school. It’s your opportunity to say, “I still want this,” while also showing that you’ve continued to grow since submitting your application. This is not just a formality; it’s a meaningful way to demonstrate your commitment and to stand out among other deferred or waitlisted applicants.

One of the first things to consider is how to address your LOCI. If your deferral or waitlist letter came from a specific admissions officer, address it to them directly. Otherwise, a simple “Dear Admissions Committee” works just fine. Begin by reintroducing yourself—your name, date of birth, high school, and the date you originally applied. This might seem basic, but it ensures they can quickly identify your file. It’s also a nice touch to thank them for the time they’ve already spent reviewing your application and for considering you further.

From there, it’s all about updates. Admissions committees want to see that you haven’t been standing still since you hit submit on your application. This is your moment to share anything significant that’s happened recently. Maybe you won a major award, achieved a new leadership position, or hit a personal milestone in one of your activities. The key here is to focus on updates that add to your application rather than rehashing what they already know. For example, if you’ve been deeply involved in your school’s theater program, you might highlight a successful performance or a new role you’ve taken on backstage. Keep it specific and meaningful.

While you’re updating them on your achievements, it’s also a good idea to tie your letter back to the school itself. Admissions committees want to know not just what you’ve done, but why their institution is still your top choice. Take a moment to reflect on what excites you most about this school. Is it a specific program, a professor’s research, or a unique tradition? Mention these details and, if possible, connect them to your recent growth. For example, if you’re drawn to the school’s environmental science program, you might share how a recent project deepened your interest in sustainability and how you see yourself contributing to their community.

But let me be clear: this is not the time to beg. Keep your tone professional and confident. A LOCI is about demonstrating your genuine enthusiasm and fit, not pleading for a spot. Think of it as a conversation with someone you respect—you’re making your case thoughtfully and with grace.

Now, let’s talk logistics. A good LOCI is concise. You don’t need to write a novel; about 500 words is usually plenty. Focus on one or two key updates or reflections. Quality over quantity is the name of the game here. And if the school provides specific guidelines—like a word limit or a preferred submission method—follow them to the letter. Ignoring these details can undermine the professionalism you’re trying to convey.

Timing matters, too. For Early Action and Early Decision deferrals, mid-January is a good time to send your LOCI. This gives you the chance to include any updates from the fall semester while ensuring your letter reaches the admissions office before they finalize decisions. If you’re on a waitlist, check if the school has provided a timeline for additional materials. And don’t forget to consult your guidance counselor or college coach for feedback before you hit send. A second set of eyes can help ensure your letter strikes the right tone.

Before we wrap up, let me share one more thought: a LOCI is as much about your mindset as it is about the content of the letter. Writing this letter is a chance to reflect on how you’ve grown and why this school remains such an important goal for you. It’s also an exercise in resilience and grace under pressure. Whether or not it ultimately changes the outcome, the process of crafting a thoughtful, well-written LOCI is valuable in itself.

So, if you’re feeling the sting of a deferral or waitlist decision, take heart. You still have a chance to make your voice heard. Use this opportunity wisely, and who knows? That letter might just be the thing that tips the scales in your favor.