Navigating College Waitlists: The Do’s and Don’ts of the Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)
By Amy S on Updated:
Getting waitlisted by a college can feel confusing. It’s not a yes, but it’s not a no either. One of the most important steps you can take if you want to stay in the running is writing a Letter of Continued Interest (often called a LOCI). A good LOCI is a key part of your waitlist strategy. It shows the college you’re still very interested and provides relevant updates. Let’s cover how to write LOCI effectively, including do’s, don’ts, and LOCI examples.
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What Does Being Waitlisted Mean?
Being waitlisted means the college likes your application, but they don’t have enough space in the incoming class right now. If admitted students decide not to enroll, spots may open up. Colleges then turn to the waitlist to fill those spots. Your chances depend on the college and how many students accept their initial offers.
The LOCI: Your Chance to Reaffirm Interest
A Letter of Continued Interest is exactly what it sounds like: a short, polite letter (usually sent via email or through the applicant portal if specified) telling the admissions office:
- You are still very interested in attending their college if admitted.
- You have relevant updates or achievements since you first applied.
It’s your primary way to demonstrate interest waitlist placement requires.
Key “Do’s” for Your Letter of Continued Interest
- DO Confirm Your Spot: First, follow the college’s instructions to formally accept your spot on the waitlist. Don’t write a LOCI if you haven’t done this.
- DO Be Enthusiastic (But Professional): Clearly state that the college remains your top choice (or one of your top choices, be honest). Reiterate why you believe it’s a great fit for you.
- DO Provide Meaningful Updates: Briefly mention any significant new achievements since you submitted your application. This could include:
- DO Keep it Concise: Aim for about half a page to a page (or roughly 250-400 words). Respect their time.
- DO Be Specific: Reference specific programs, professors, clubs, or aspects of the college that excite you. This shows you’ve done your research.
- DO Proofread Carefully: Errors look sloppy and undermine your message.
Important “Don’ts” for Your LOCI
- DON’T Send it Too Early or Too Late: Wait for the official waitlist offer. Send it within a week or two generally, unless the college gives other instructions.
- DON’T Whine or Complain: Don’t express frustration about being waitlisted. Maintain a positive, mature tone.
- DON’T Rehash Your Original Application: They already have that information. Focus on new updates and reaffirming interest.
- DON’T Send Too Many Updates: One strong LOCI is usually enough, unless something truly major happens later. Don’t bombard the office.
- DON’T Demand Admission: Be polite and respectful. You are expressing interest, not making demands.
- DON’T Send Gifts or Gimmicks: It’s unprofessional.
- DON’T Be Dishonest: Never lie about offers from other schools or exaggerate achievements.
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What to Include: LOCI Examples and Content Ideas
A good LOCI structure often includes:
- Opening: Thank them for the continued consideration. State clearly you wish to remain on the waitlist and reaffirm your strong interest in College X. If it’s your absolute first choice and you would attend if admitted, say so explicitly.
- Brief Updates Paragraph: Concisely share 1-3 significant updates since submitting your application (new grades, awards, project completions). Briefly explain their significance.
- Reiterate Fit Paragraph: Briefly remind them why you are a good fit for College X, perhaps mentioning a specific program, professor, or campus value that resonates with you. Show you’ve continued to learn about the school.
- Closing: Thank them again for their time and consideration. Politely express hope for a positive outcome.
Look online for specific LOCI examples, but always tailor them to your unique situation and the specific college.
Sending Your LOCI: Timing and Method
- Timing: Usually within 1-2 weeks of receiving the waitlist offer.
- Method: Check the college’s instructions! Some prefer email to the general admissions office or a specific regional counselor. Others might have a form or portal upload option. Follow their directions precisely. Address it to the Dean of Admissions or your specific regional counselor if known.
Beyond the LOCI: Other Waitlist Strategy Steps
- Keep Your Grades Up: Finish senior year strong! Colleges may ask for final transcripts.
- Consider Visiting (If Possible/Appropriate): If feasible and the college allows waitlist visits, it can reinforce interest.
- Secure Your Spot Elsewhere: You MUST deposit at another college by the May 1 deadline. Don’t count on getting off the waitlist.
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Final Thought: Be Polite, Persistent, and Patient
Navigating a waitlist requires patience. Writing a strong, sincere Letter of Continued Interest is your best tool for improving your chances among college waitlist acceptance tips. Be polite, provide meaningful updates, reiterate your fit, and then be patient. Good luck!
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