Claim Your Spot: Crafting a Powerful Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) to Secure Your College Acceptance After Deferral

Receiving a college deferral can be incredibly frustrating. After dedicating countless hours perfecting your application, facing a delay may feel disheartening. However, this moment is not the end of your journey; it’s a valuable chance to affirm your enthusiasm and dedication. A Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) allows you to do just that, and it can significantly enhance your chances of securing a spot in the institution you desire.

In this post, we will guide you step-by-step on how to write a compelling LOCI that highlights your commitment and eagerness to join the college.

Understanding the Purpose of a LOCI

A Letter of Continued Interest is your opportunity to confirm your desire to attend a specific college. You can express gratitude for being considered, provide updates on your accomplishments, and reinforce your intention to enroll if accepted.

Your LOCI should showcase your enthusiasm for the institution along with updates on academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any other qualifications that set you apart as a candidate.

Essential Steps to Write a Strong LOCI

1. Start with a Thank You

Begin your LOCI with a sincere thank you. Showing appreciation for the consideration you have received thus far will create a positive tone for your letter.

Example:

"Thank you for considering my application and for the opportunity to be deferred. I appreciate your time and thoughtful evaluation of my application."

2. Restate Your Interest

Clearly express that your interest in the college remains strong. Reiterate why this institution is a perfect fit for you and mention specific programs, faculty members, or initiatives that excite you.

Example:

"I want to reaffirm my strong interest in [College Name] because of its exceptional programs in [specific field]. The more I learn, the more I believe that my goals align perfectly with the school's values and vision."

3. Provide Updates on Your Achievements

This section is vital. Use your LOCI to share any new accomplishments in your academic or extracurricular life since you submitted your application. For instance, if you recently earned a scholarship or led a community service project, mention these developments.

Example:

"Since my application, I have completed an advanced course in [subject], achieving a grade of [letter grade or percentage]. Additionally, I led a project on [specific topic], which involved [specific details about the project]. These experiences have only fueled my desire to contribute to the [College Name] community."

4. Highlight Your Fit

Admissions committees seek candidates who will enhance their campus community. Discuss how you plan to contribute to the college. Consider mentioning clubs you wish to join, initiatives you want to spearhead, or ways you can share your unique perspective.

Example:

"I am excited about the prospect of joining [specific club or team] at [College Name]. I plan to bring my passion for [specific interest] to the group, fostering collaboration and creating enriching experiences for fellow students."

5. End with a Strong Closing

Wrap up your LOCI on a positive note. Reinforce your excitement about attending the college and your eagerness to learn more about your application status.

Example:

"Thank you once again for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of attending [College Name] and actively contributing to its vibrant community. Please let me know if you need any further information."

Formatting and Guidelines for Your LOCI

Pay attention to the following formatting tips to make your LOCI effective:

• Be Concise: Keep your letter to one page, around 300-500 words. Short, impactful messages are often the most memorable.

• Professional Tone: Maintain a professional tone while adding a personal touch to your letter.

• Proofread: Ensure that your LOCI is free from spelling and grammatical errors by proofreading it multiple times.

  
  

Additional Tips for Success

1. Know Your Audience

Tailor your LOCI specifically to the college you’re addressing. Research the college’s values and philosophies, then connect them to your letter.

2. Maintain a Positive Attitude

While it’s natural to feel disappointment after a deferral, keep your LOCI upbeat. Steer clear of language that may come across as demanding or entitled.

3. Follow Up

After sending your LOCI, wait a few weeks before following up. A brief email checking on your application status shows your continued interest without being overly aggressive.

Harvard University

Your Pathway to Acceptance

Navigating the college admissions process can be emotional. If you find yourself deferred, remember that hope is not lost. A well-crafted LOCI can serve as your bridge to acceptance, showcasing your genuine interest in the college.

By following these steps and expressing your passion and dedication with clarity, you can elevate yourself as a desirable candidate. Persistent optimism and a proactive approach will enhance your chances. Best of luck on your journey!