So, you got deferred. Take a deep breath. This isn’t the end—it’s an opportunity to show admissions that you’re still all in. Your next move? Writing a killer Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI).
What Is a LOCI, and Why Does It Matter?
A LOCI is your chance to reaffirm your commitment to a school that deferred you. Think of it as a professional love letter, highlighting why you’re still their #1 fan and why they should choose you. This letter has become so important that some schools, like MIT and Case Western, now require it for deferred applicants.
Admissions offices receive updated information about your academic performance through your Mid-Year Report. This report, sent directly from your school, provides your grades for the previous semester. But here’s the deal: you can’t control your grades now. What you can control is how you showcase your continued interest, passion, and fit for the school. That’s where your LOCI comes in.
Timing Is Everything
Mid-to-late January is the sweet spot for submitting your LOCI for most schools. But don’t wait too long—check each university’s admissions portal for specific deadlines or guidelines. Schools that require a formal LOCI often have clear instructions for uploading your letter. Follow them to the letter (pun intended).
The ball’s in your court if the school doesn’t provide specific guidance. You can craft a LOCI that’s short, professional, and tailored to the school’s values. A well-timed, thoughtfully written LOCI could make the difference between staying in limbo and securing that acceptance letter.
What to Include in Your LOCI
Here’s a quick checklist for writing an effective LOCI:
- Gratitude: Thank the admissions team for reviewing your application and considering you again.
- Reaffirmation: Express your strong desire to attend the school and why it remains your top choice.
- Updates: Share any new achievements, awards, or experiences since you submitted your original application.
- Specificity: Highlight how the school’s programs, culture, or opportunities align with your goals.
- Professionalism: Keep the tone respectful and concise. No more than one page.
Sample LOCI
Here’s an example from a student who was deferred from Penn ED and later accepted in the regular decision round:
Dear [Admissions Officer or Committee],
Thank you for taking the time to review my application during the Early Decision process. While I was disappointed to be deferred, I remain deeply committed to [University Name] as my first-choice school.
Since submitting my application, I have [specific updates, e.g., “received an award,” “completed a major project,” “taken on a leadership role”]. These experiences have further solidified my passion for [specific field or program at the school], and I am confident that [University Name] is the ideal place for me to grow academically and personally.
I am particularly drawn to [specific program, faculty member, or opportunity unique to the school], as it aligns perfectly with my goals of [specific career path or academic interest]. I would be honored to contribute to [specific aspect of the university community].
Thank you again for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to join the [University Name] community and contribute to its legacy of excellence.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Application ID, if applicable]
Final Thoughts
Submitting a LOCI shows that you’re proactive, passionate, and ready to fight for your spot. Don’t miss this opportunity to remind admissions why you’re the perfect fit for their campus. Need help crafting your LOCI? That’s what we’re here for—guiding you every step of the way.
Take a bite out of college admissions with College Sharks. For more expert tips and personalized advice, visit www.collegesharks.com.