Writing a Letter of Continued Interest

If you’ve been waitlisted/deferred from one of your top choice schools, you should consider sending a one-page letter to the admissions representative responsible for evaluating applicants from your high school. Send this letter by email and you can also follow up with a physical copy mailed to their office. Be sure to copy the dean of admissions on the correspondence.

In your letter of continued interest:

INSIDER TIP! Include identifying information beyond your name. An admission officer from Duke University told us to make sure our students include their Date of Birth on their letter, as they get so many letters from students with the same first and last names. So, on your letter be sure to note your date of birth or ID the school may have assigned to you.

Express your genuine enthusiasm for the college and make it clear that it remains your top choice. If you are 100% certain that you would enroll if admitted, state that intention clearly.

Reiterate why this school is the ideal fit for you, both academically and personally. Do not talk about the weather, aesthetics, or football team. Rather, highlight specific professors, courses, extracurricular activities, or unique opportunities at the school to demonstrate your thorough research and awareness of the school’s offerings. Help them SEE you as a student on their campus.

Provide updates on your recent achievements, both academic and extracurricular, since submitting your Early Action/Decision application. (Did you get a big role in the school play, a “Most Improved” award on the soccer team, win a championship, or achieve a big goal?) Demonstrate your continued growth and commitment to excellence in and out of the classroom.

Maintain an optimistic and positive tone. Avoid conveying any disappointment or frustration, focusing instead on your excitement for the possibility of attending their school.

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