Demonstrated interest—it’s one of the many cryptic phrases thrown around during the college admissions process that can leave high schoolers scratching their heads and asking, “Wait, am I supposed to send them a singing telegram?” The concept seems simple at first: colleges want to know that you actually care about them, that you’re not just clicking “apply” in a random frenzy while scrolling TikTok. Why should this matter to you? Colleges want to predict which admitted students will actually enroll, and demonstrated interest helps them do exactly that. The more you engage with a school, the better your chances of standing out in a crowded pool of applicants. So, how can you make sure your excitement shines through?
Understanding Demonstrated Interest
At its core, demonstrated interest is about proving you’re genuinely interested in a particular college. Whether you’re attending virtual information sessions, visiting campus (in-person or online), or interacting with admissions officers, demonstrating interest means engaging with the school beyond just submitting your application. It’s about showing you’ve done your homework, that you’re invested, and that you’re enthusiastic about joining their community. Colleges love this because it helps them gauge how likely it is that you’ll actually enroll if they offer you a spot. After all, schools want to know their yield rate—the percentage of admitted students who accept offers—and your interest can play a big role in that.
Why Demonstrated Interest Matters
In today’s hyper-competitive admissions world, demonstrating interest can really make a difference. As more students apply to college, schools are trying to figure out who is most likely to accept an offer of admission. This is especially true for schools that have limited spots or highly competitive programs. Colleges want to predict their yield rate so they can plan for enrollment effectively. If you show interest, admissions teams are more likely to believe you’ll choose their school if offered admission.
And here’s the kicker—if you don’t show enough interest, you could be looking at a waitlist or even a denial, especially in Early Decision or Early Action rounds. Colleges want students who are excited about attending them specifically, not just any random school.
Additionally, showing genuine interest helps you figure out if a college is the right fit. The more you know about a school, the better your “Why us?” essay will be, and the stronger your application will look. So, not only does it help the college, but it helps you too!
The Schools That Care About Demonstrated Interest
Not all colleges prioritize demonstrated interest the same way. While some schools, like those in the Ivy League or the University of California system, don’t track demonstrated interest at all, many others do. For schools with limited spots or especially competitive programs, demonstrated interest can be a key factor in the admissions process.
So how can you know if a college tracks it? Some schools openly state it on their admissions websites, while others leave it more ambiguous. If you’re unsure, you can always ask! Contact the admissions office to find out if they track demonstrated interest and, if so, how much it influences decisions.
Ways to Show You Care
Now that you know why demonstrated interest matters, let’s get into how you can actually show your enthusiasm. Here are some effective ways to demonstrate your interest:
- Attend Information Sessions & College Fairs. Whether virtual or in person, college info sessions and fairs are fantastic opportunities to learn more about the school and show you’re seriously considering them. Admissions offices often track your attendance, so every time you participate, you’re making a positive impression. Plus, you get the chance to ask questions and engage with the people who know the most about the college.
- Take Campus Tours (In-Person or Virtual). A campus tour is your chance to experience the school firsthand. Whether you’re physically visiting or checking out a virtual tour, this is an easy way to show you’re considering them seriously. And yes, most schools track your visit, so this is an opportunity to put your best foot forward!
- Join College Mailing Lists. Signing up for a college’s mailing list may seem small, but it’s a smart way to stay on top of important updates and events. Plus, colleges can track whether you’re opening and engaging with their emails, so be sure to check them out and engage when something sparks your interest!
- Follow Colleges on Social Media. Instagram, X, Facebook—you name it! Follow colleges on social media to stay in the loop and show you’re engaged. You can even interact with their posts, leave comments, or attend their live events. This not only keeps you updated but signals that you’re interested in more than just the application process.
- Reach Out to Admissions Officers. Don’t be afraid to contact your regional admissions officer with questions. This shows that you’ve done your research and are serious about the school. Asking about specific programs, campus life, or anything else unique to the college shows you’re not just applying on a whim—you’re genuinely excited about what they offer.
- Attend Open Houses & Specialty Events. Open houses are goldmines for learning about a school’s culture, academic programs, and student life. Plus, admissions offices often track attendance at these events, so showing up in person (or virtually) can give your application a boost. It’s also a great chance to connect with current students, faculty, and other prospective applicants.
- Apply Early Decision or Early Action. If you’re really feeling a school, applying Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) is one of the most effective ways to demonstrate interest. ED, in particular, is a binding commitment, signaling you’re 100% invested. EA, while not binding, still shows that the school is your top choice and that you’re eager to hear back sooner.
How A+ Can Help
At A+ Test Prep and Tutoring, we’re here to help you navigate the admissions process with confidence. Whether it’s improving your test scores, perfecting your application essays, or strategizing your college list, our expert tutors will guide you every step of the way. Reach out today, and let’s work together to make your dream school a reality!
At A+ Test Prep and Tutoring, our practices are based on the latest developments in educational theory and research. We have an excellent team of tutors who can help you with standardized testing, executive functioning, or achievement in any other school subject. If you want to find out more about our services, contact us here.
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