Demonstrating Interest In a College

By Christina Waters

In the increasingly competitive world of college admissions, students are always looking for ways to stand out. One aspect that can significantly impact your application is “demonstrated interest.” This term refers to the ways in which prospective students show a college that they are seriously considering attending if admitted. Colleges track demonstrated interest to gauge the likelihood that an applicant will accept an offer of admission, thereby helping them manage their yield rates (the percentage of students who accept offers of admission).

Why Demonstrated Interest Matters

For many colleges, particularly private schools, demonstrated interest can be a critical factor in the admissions process. It helps admissions officers differentiate between students who are genuinely enthusiastic about their institution and those who may have applied more indiscriminately. Schools use this information to prioritize applicants who are more likely to enroll, thereby optimizing their admissions decisions and resources.

How to Tell If a College Considers Demonstrated Interest

Not all colleges consider demonstrated interest, and the extent to which they do can vary significantly. Here are a few ways to determine if a college you’re interested in tracks demonstrated interest:

1. Check the College’s Website and Admissions Materials: Some colleges explicitly state on their admissions pages whether they track demonstrated interest. This information may also be available in their FAQs or admissions blogs.
2. Ask During College Visits or Information Sessions: When you have the opportunity to interact with admissions representatives, ask directly whether demonstrated interest plays a role in their admissions decisions.
3. Review the Common Data Set: Many colleges publish a Common Data Set, which is a document that includes detailed information about their admissions process. Section C7 usually indicates whether and how much a college considers demonstrated interest.

Effective Ways to Demonstrate Interest

If you find that a college does track demonstrated interest, there are several effective ways to show your enthusiasm:

1. Visit the Campus: Visiting a college is perhaps the strongest signal of interest. It shows that you are willing to spend time and resources to explore the school. If possible, take an official tour, attend an information session, or meet with an admissions officer.
2. Engage with Admissions Representatives: If college representatives visit your high school or host virtual information sessions, make sure to attend and ask thoughtful questions. Follow up with a thank you email that references specific details from your interaction.
3. Apply Early Decision or Early Action: Applying through these early admission cycles is a powerful indicator of interest, as early decision is binding, and early action shows you are prioritizing this college among your early choices.
4. Interact on Social Media and Via Email: Many colleges monitor email and social media interactions. Regularly engaging with the college’s posts or emailing questions to the admissions office can be beneficial. Be sure to always use your official email address linked to your application.
5. Write a Meaningful Supplemental Essay: If the college asks for a “Why This College?” essay, this is your opportunity to shine. Research specific programs, faculty, clubs, or traditions at the college that align with your interests and goals, and articulate clearly why they are a match for you.
6. Attend College Fairs and Meet with Alumni: Participating in college fairs and speaking with alumni from the colleges you are interested in can also demonstrate interest. These interactions show that you are taking an active role in learning about the school.

Demonstrated interest can be a strategic tool in your college admissions toolkit. By effectively showing colleges your genuine enthusiasm and fit for their institution, you can enhance your chances of admission. Always balance showing interest with maintaining a genuine approach; admissions officers can discern between authentic interest and superficial tactics.