When applying to colleges, students often focus on writing great essays, getting strong recommendation letters, and achieving high test scores. However, one less obvious factor in the admissions process is demonstrated interest. Many colleges, particularly private and smaller institutions, take demonstrated interest into account when making admissions decisions. But you may be asking, “What exactly is demonstrated interest, and why does it matter?”
Demonstrated interest refers to the ways in which a student shows a college that they are genuinely excited about attending. Colleges want to admit students who are excited about their likelihood to enroll because of a high yield rate (the percentage of admitted students who choose to enroll). Demonstrated interest helps admissions officers gauge whether an applicant is truly interested in their school or simply applying as a backup option.
Why Does Demonstrated Interest Matter?
Colleges spend a lot of time recruiting students, and they prefer to admit those who are more likely to accept an offer. Demonstrated interest allows admissions committees to distinguish between applicants who are seriously considering the school and those who may be casting a wide net. By prioritizing engaged applicants, colleges can better manage their incoming class size and maintain their selectivity.
Ways to Show Demonstrated Interest
1. Campus Visits
Visiting a college in person is one of the strongest ways to show interest. Attending a campus tour, participating in an information session, and even sitting in on a class signal to admissions officers that a student has taken the time to explore the school in depth.
2. Interviews
Some colleges offer optional interviews with admissions officers, alumni, or students. Participating in an interview and expressing sincere enthusiasm for the school can make a positive impression and demonstrate commitment.
3. College Fairs and High School Visits
Meeting college reps at high school visits or college fairs provides an opportunity to engage with admissions staff. Students should ask thoughtful questions and sign up for mailing lists to track their engagement.
4. Email Communication
Reaching out to admissions officers with meaningful questions about programs, campus life, or academic opportunities can indicate interest. However, students should avoid sending generic or excessive emails, as these can come across as disingenuous.
5. Early Applications
Applying through Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) can signal a strong commitment to a college. Early Decision, in particular, is a binding agreement that tells the school it is the applicant’s top choice.
6. Engagement with Online Resources
Many colleges track website visits, email openings, and interactions with virtual events. Attending online webinars, participating in virtual tours, and following a school’s social media pages can subtly demonstrate interest.
7. Supplemental Essays
If a college has a “Why Us?” essay prompt, this is an excellent chance to demonstrate deep knowledge of and enthusiasm for the school. A strong response should highlight specific academic programs, extracurricular activities, or values that align with the student’s interests and goals.
Which Colleges Consider Demonstrated Interest?
Not all colleges consider demonstrated interest in their admissions decisions. Large public universities and Ivy League schools typically do not track interest because they receive a vast number of applications and have high yield rates. However, many liberal arts colleges and mid-sized private universities do consider demonstrated interest. Students should check each school’s admissions policies or resources like the Common Data Set to determine whether demonstrated interest is a factor.
Final Thoughts
While demonstrated interest is not the most important component of a college application, it can provide an edge in a competitive admissions pool. By taking the time to engage with colleges through visits, interviews, emails, and applications, students can reinforce their excitement and possibly increase their chances of acceptance. However, the most important thing is to remain genuine—colleges can often tell when a student is demonstrating interest solely to improve their admissions odds rather than because they are truly excited about the school. After all, college admissions is about finding the right fit, and demonstrated interest can help both students and colleges ensure success in that.
Former Admissions Counselor at Washington University in St. Louis
Former Admissions Reader at Washington University in St. Louis
Former Transfer Admissions Counselor at Lindenwood University
4 years in Washington University Admissions
1 year in Lindenwood University Admissions
2,000+ Applications Read & Evaluated
Haley, a B.S. graduate in Communication from Millikin University, transitioned from finance to higher education. At Washington University, she evaluated applications for all undergraduate schools and various scholarship programs. As a first-generation college student, Haley deeply understands the challenges of the college application process and is committed to making it more accessible and less daunting for others.
