Getting into college can be nerve-wracking and stressful for many high school grads. After sending in the application and waiting for what seems like forever, the decision often seems to be up in the air for a while. But there is still hope for people on the waitlist: the letter of continued interest gives you one last chance to make your case for acceptance. This strong tool can tip the scales in your favor if carefully made. But how do you write one that stands out? This complete guide will show you everything you need to do, from knowing why you’re writing the letter to getting the tone right and everything in between.
This guide will help you whether you are a student trying to get into college or an admissions worker wanting to understand things from the student’s point of view. Are you interested in writing? If you answer yes, let’s talk about How to write a character letter to a judge. Read out our latest blog on the given topic.
Understanding the Purpose of a Letter of Continued Interest
Understanding why this kind of letter can be important before we get into the specifics of writing it is important. A letter of continued interest gives you a chance to:
- Again, say how much you want to go to college or university.
- Tell the admissions committee about any big or new things you’ve done since your first application.
- Make it clear that you are dedicated to the school and show why you are a great fit.
- Talk about how you’ve continued to grow and do well despite problems or changes in your personal or school life. This will show how resilient and flexible you are.
- To strengthen your application, add more information or background not in the first entry.
- Show that you’re interested in discussing any contacts you’ve had with people at the school or recent events that have made you want to go even more.
- Give a new take on how you want to add to the spirit of the school and the special things you can bring to the table.
The real goal is to keep your candidature in the thoughts of the admissions committee in a good way without being too pushy or demanding. You have to keep the fire going in your application while also being aware of the careful balance of the admissions process.
Crafting the Perfect Letter
Choosing the Right Timing
It’s very important to know when to send your letter. After being put on the waitlist, you don’t want to send it too quickly, but you also don’t want to send it too late when the group has already made their choice. Try to send it four to six weeks after getting the notice that you’re online.
Addressing the Right Recipient
Even though it may seem obvious, send your letter to the right person or department. There is a way to find out the name of the head of admissions or a particular admissions worker.
Introduction and Greeting
Start your letter with a clear and to-the-point opening. Writing down your full name, the college or program you went to, and the date you were put on hold is important.
Next, meet the admissions committee or the person in charge of your application.
Expressing Your Continued Interest
After the first meeting, expressing your genuine excitement for the organization is important. Recognize that the longer you are on the line, the more you want to join the school group. In this part, you reassure the admissions committee that you will fully accept the offer if you are accepted. Including specific things about the school that interest you, like academic programs, college life, or extracurricular activities, can make your letter more personal and show that you are genuinely interested and well-informed.
Providing Updates
One of the main points of your letter should be to talk about any big changes or accomplishments since your first application. These can be anything from awards or better grades to new activities outside of school, leadership roles, or even growth opportunities. Your goal is to show how you’ve continued to grow and improve, strengthening your candidature. When you describe these changes, be brief but detailed, as they can greatly affect how the admissions committee sees your application.
Reiterating the Fit
This part is where you should stress again why you think the school is a good fit for you and vice versa. Think about what you learned about the organization and how it fits your values, goals, and hobbies. Discuss how you plan to contribute to the college community and why the school’s special choices are important to your academic and career goals. The selection team looks for this kind of equal fit to choose kids who will do well and make the school a better place.
Closing with Appreciation
Say thank you and be polite at the end of your letter. Thank the admissions committee again for looking at your application, and let them know how excited you are about the chance to join their group. Being aware of how difficult the admissions process is and keeping a tone of hope without feeling entitled is important. Lastly, give your contact information and let the group know you’re happy to give them more information or answer any questions they may have.
Remember that your letter of continued interest is not just a duty; it’s also a chance to highlight your commitment, accomplishments, and the unique qualities you bring to the school you’re interested in. Writing it sincerely, accurately, and professionally can greatly improve your chances of getting into college.
Showing Gratitude
Thank you very much for allowing me to keep being considered for acceptance. Give credit to the group for their hard work and recognize how difficult the application process is.
Providing Updates
This part of your letter might be the most important one. Let the admissions committee know about new information that could strengthen your application. Such things could be:
- A bump in your grades
- Awards or recognition
- New extracurricular activities
- A change in your career aspirations
It would be best to highlight any new accomplishments or important events to show that you are still growing as a person and in school.
Articulating Why You Belong at Their Institution
Tell an engaging story about why the school is the best place for you. This should not only discuss the college’s academics but also its unique culture, recreational activities, and general atmosphere. It would be best to show that you’ve done your study and can see yourself being an involved and helpful part of their group.
Closing the Letter
Finish your letter on a hopeful note that looks to the future. Say you hope the problem can be solved and are still excited about possibly attending college or university. Say again that if you get the chance, you will do everything you can to be a good student and do well in school.
Handling Follow-Up
They might call or email you again after reading your letter of continued interest. Be ready to talk about what’s in your letter and answer any other questions they may have.
Staying Engaged with the School
Stay current on school events and activities when you’re on the waitlist. To learn more about the school’s community and meet with other graduates, attend internet events, workshops, or local get-togethers. Ongoing involvement is another way to show that you are genuinely interested in the organization.
Utilizing Social Media Wisely
Social media is a great way to show that you care about and are involved in your school’s community. Use the school’s official social media accounts to show your support for their events, news, and accomplishments. However, don’t forget always to keep a professional and polite online appearance.
Reflecting on Personal Growth
Use this time of waiting to think about yourself and grow. Do things that will help you grow personally and academically. Taking on new challenges, like starting a new project, learning a new skill, or helping in your community, can help you learn more about yourself and grow.
Reinforcing Your Support Network
During this time, lean on your family, teachers, and friends for support. They can help you stay upbeat and inspired by giving you support, advice, and a different point of view. It can also help you feel stronger when discussing your problems and experiences with them.
Preparing for the Future
Use this time to think about and plan for everything that could go wrong, no matter what happens. Look into other choices and understand the possible ways to move forward. Being proactive shows that you are mature, strong, and ready to keep going after your school and job goals with determination and strength.
Letter of Continued Interest Samples
If you’re having trouble writing, we’ve made two sample letters for you to use as guides: one is for an applicant on the waitlist, and the other is for an applicant being deferred.
Sample Letter for a Waitlisted Applicant
“`
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
Dear [Admissions Committee Name],
In this letter, I want to say how grateful I am to be able to stay on the waitlist for [University Name]. Since hearing the news, I’ve considered what makes your school special.
In line with my dedication to greatness, I have maintained a strict academic routine, which has helped my GPA significantly. I was also honored to receive the [Name of Award] this term, which shows my dedication to schoolwork and society.
I have also started a new activity outside of school. I’m now [Your Position] of the [Club Name], and I’ve been in charge of several projects, such as [Specific Projects/Campaigns]. I’ve improved my leadership skills and made a real difference in school through this job.
Also, my visit to the school during your admitted student day made me even more sure that [University Name] is the best place for me to learn and grow as a person. My hobbies and goals are very similar to those of the active [Program/Course] and [Extracurricular] scene.
I’m hoping for a good answer from the admissions committee, and I want to make a positive difference in the [University Name] society. Thanks for your continued consideration.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
“`
Sample Letter for an Applicant in Deferral
“`
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Date]
[Admissions Committee Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
Dear [Admissions Committee Name],
After hearing that I was deferred during the early application process, I’m writing to let you know that I’m still interested in [University Name]. I’m still determined to get a good education at one of the best schools in the country.
Since my delay, I have kept up my academic success by continuing to love learning and strive for greatness. Notably, my GPA shows how hard I’ve worked at school and on my personal growth.
A lot of progress has also been made in my recreational interests. I am now in charge of [Your New Leadership Position] at [Club/Activity Name]. In this role, I have led projects that have greatly affected my school and the community.
Also, I haven’t been sitting around doing anything to add to the field of [Your Field of Interest]. I have done [Name of Project/Research], which has helped me learn more about the topic, given me real-world experience, and laid the groundwork for future research.
I’m sure that [University Name] is a light of thought and a haven of opportunity where I can follow my academic interests and be a part of a society that encourages personal growth and values kindness.
If you choose to make me a part of the [University Name] family, you will find a student who is driven to do well, has a strong character, and is dedicated to the school’s ideals and purpose. Thank you for continuing to think about me, and I look forward to hearing your final choice about my entry.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
“`
Understanding the Application Post-Letter
Even though it’s important, a letter of continued interest is only one piece of the picture. It would be best to ensure that other parts of your application package are still great. Keep your grades up, do well in your leisure activities, and work hard to prepare for a possible future interview. Not only will this improve the content of your letter, but it will also show the admissions committee that you are a good candidate for the school.
Additional Resources and FAQs
High school guidance counselors, college admissions blogs, and groups have much information to help you learn more about the college application process and letters of continued interest.
Conclusion
If you’ve been waitlisted or delayed, the time after may feel like a place where your academic future is unsure. But the letter of continued interest is a sign of hope that can help you get into the college of your dreams. This is your chance to say what you’re worth and how committed you are to the school of your choice. Be careful, think about it, and go into it with a real sense of why you fit. This best guide has given you all the information you need to make a great plan for your future in school. Have fun!