Everything You Need to Know About Writing a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)

Receiving a deferral or waitlist decision from a dream US college can feel like a frustrating “maybe” instead of the hoped-for “yes.” It is natural to feel disappointed, but the good news is that this is not a rejection, so it is not necessarily the end of the road. One of the most impactful steps a high school student can take is to write a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI). This guide explains what a LOCI is, why it matters, and how to write one effectively, helping students make a strong impression during the admissions process by taking proactive measures., This guide provides advice to navigate this crucial step.

What Is a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)?

A Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) is a formal communication sent to a US college admissions office after an applicant has been deferred or waitlisted. Its primary purpose is to reaffirm the applicant’s interest in attending the institution, provide updates on any new achievements, and demonstrate alignment with the college’s mission and values.

A LOCI offers an applicant the opportunity to advocate for themselves one more time. While it does not guarantee admission, it can strengthen an application by showing commitment to the college.

Why Writing a LOCI Matters

US College admissions are highly competitive, particularly at top institutions. A deferral or waitlist decision often indicates that the student is a strong candidate, but the admissions committee either requires more time to evaluate their application or there is no available space in the class at the time of the decision.

A LOCI can make a significant difference for several reasons:

• Demonstrates Interest – Admissions teams often prioritise applicants who show genuine enthusiasm for the institution.

• Provides Updates – The LOCI serves as an opportunity to share any new achievements or improvements in academic performance.

• Personalises the Application – A thoughtful, well-crafted letter can help an applicant stand out and reinforce their fit with the college.

Not All Colleges Accept LOCIs

While many colleges welcome LOCIs, not all institutions do. It is essential to research each college’s specific policies before drafting a letter. Some highly selective colleges, such as Carnegie Mellon, the University of Virginia, and UNC Chapel Hill, explicitly state on their admissions websites that they do not accept LOCIs. Sending a letter to colleges that do not allow them may reflect poorly on an applicant’s understanding of the process and waste valuable time.

If a college does not accept LOCIs, it is best to focus on updating mid-year grades and adhering to their specific instructions.

How to Write a Winning LOCI in 5 Steps

Follow these steps to craft a professional and compelling LOCI:

1. Begin with Gratitude
   The letter should open with an expression of gratitude to the admissions committee for their continued consideration. It is also important to convey enthusiasm for the possibility of attending the college, setting a positive and respectful tone.
   Example:
   “Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of my application and for continuing to keep me in mind during this admissions cycle. I remain incredibly enthusiastic about the opportunity to join the community at [X College].”

2. Explain Why the College Is the Top Choice
   The LOCI should include specific reasons why the college is uniquely suited to the applicant’s academic and personal goals. Generic statements, such as “the campus is beautiful” or “I want to major in biology,” should be avoided. Instead, the letter should highlight unique aspects of the college, such as specialised programmes, faculty research, or campus organisations that resonate with the applicant’s goals. For example:

• referencing a sustainability track that aligns with a passion for environmental advocacy

• mentioning a professor whose research is particularly inspiring and aligns with future aspirations

• reminding them if it is the students’ first choice, but it is important to be sincere—only declare a college as the top choice if it genuinely is.

3. Share New Achievements
   Admissions committees value evidence of continued growth and success. Updates may include:

• Improved grades or test scores

• Leadership roles in extracurricular activities

• Academic awards or recognitions

• Volunteer work or job experiences relevant to future goals
  Parents can help students reflect on accomplishments since the original application submission to identify meaningful updates. These updates should complement the original application and highlight ongoing progress.

4. Keep It Concise
   Admissions officers have limited time, so the LOCI should be no more than one page (single-spaced). The letter should focus on the most valuable information and be well-structured for clarity and readability.
   
   

5. Edit and Review
   Proofreading is critical to ensure the LOCI is free of grammatical errors and maintains a professional tone. It should feel cohesive with the original application. If possible, a teacher or counsellor should review the letter before it is submitted.
   
   

What to Avoid in a LOCI

• Repetition – The LOCI should not repeat information already included in the original application. Its purpose is to provide updates and new insights.

• Overdoing It – The tone should remain professional, avoiding exaggeration or overly emotional language.

• Ignoring Guidelines – A LOCI should only be sent to colleges that explicitly accept them, following all outlined admissions policies.

Boosting Deferral Odds Beyond the LOCI

In addition to writing a LOCI, students should remain engaged in their extracurricular activities and maintain strong academic performance. Admissions committees look for persistence and growth in applicants.

It is also important to explore alternative colleges and opportunities. Shifting focus can help reduce stress and frustration, reminding students that there are many paths to success.

Closing Thoughts

Receiving a deferral or waitlist decision can feel disheartening, but it is not a rejection. A well-crafted LOCI allows students to reinforce their commitment to their dream college and highlight their continued growth. It may be the difference between being gaining acceptance or not.

For more expert advice on navigating the admissions process, keep checking this blog. We are here to support students and parents through this journey.