Did you know that in addition to factors such as test scores, grades and extracurricular activities, some colleges consider something known as “demonstrated interest”? This means you’ve shown through your actions that you really understand what makes a particular college unique, and that you have a genuine desire to attend. In this age of the Common App, it’s relatively easy for students to apply to “play it safe” and apply to multiple colleges, even if you don’t know much about some of the schools on your list. Some schools make an attempt to distinguish students who are truly interested from those who are applying without much commitment to attend.
Some elite institutions, and many large public universities, say that they do not give much weight to demonstrated interest. (This does not mean that applicants shouldn’t be well acquainted with the schools to which they’re applying.) About half of all colleges, however, consider demonstrated interest as a factor in admissions decisions, and some monitor students’ interest in great detail. Here’s a list of how important demonstrated interest is to 360+ colleges.
Fortunately, there are quite a few ways students can show their interest in the schools that do care about this factor:
- Request information about the school by responding to promotional materials or by contacting them on your own. Read any emails they send, and browse their website; some colleges monitor these activities.
- Make a campus visit, whether in person or virtually. Ask about more in-depth opportunities than the usual campus tour, such as lunch with currently enrolled students, “shadowing” students in class or an overnight stay.
- “Like” and follow the school on social media. (Bonus tip: make sure there’s nothing on your social media profiles you wouldn’t want schools to see).
- Interview if possible. Many schools offer the option of interviews (sometimes with alumni), but they may not be scheduled automatically; applicants may need to request one.
- Apply early, if possible. Colleges are increasingly filling their incoming freshman classes with students who apply early. Applying early decision (which is binding) can help your chances as well, but you should only do so if you are certain of your top choice school and aren’t relying on financial aid. Early action, on the other hand is non-binding, so it can be a reasonable option if you are still undecided about your top choice. Even if you apply via regular decision, try to get your application in well in advance of the deadline.
- Write supplemental essays with care, especially when the question is “Why this school?” This shows a college that you are taking extra time on their application. Be explicit about how interested you are in the school and why it’s a good fit for you.
- Attend college fairs (virtual or in-person) or visits by admissions reps at your high school. Introduce yourself to admissions staff and provide your contact information.
- Contact the admissions office to ask follow up questions.
- Send a follow up note thanking anyone who helps you – an interviewer, a rep at a college fair, or anyone you speak to in admissions.
- If you are waitlisted, follow up immediately to show that you still want to be considered.
These steps take extra time, but they’re worth it. Demonstrating your interest shows that you’re a serious applicant, and colleges want students who are likely to accept their offer of admission.