Can I send a demonstrated interest letter more than once?

Short answer: nope. Demonstrated interest letters are a one-and-done kind of thing. Think of it like a first impression—you don’t get a redo. Sending multiple versions can come off as pushy or, worse, spammy. You’re not trying to flood their inbox like a flash sale ad. You want to drop one thoughtful, memorable note that makes them go, “Hey, this student really gets us.” If you keep showing up with new versions, it starts to feel like you’re overthinking it (or panic-Googling at 2 a.m.). So make your one letter count. Say what you need to say—then trust it to do its job.

Who should I address my demonstrated interest letter to?

Step one: don’t go with “To Whom It May Concern.” That phrase retired with dial-up internet. Most colleges have regional admissions officers assigned to specific states or territories, and their names (and emails!) are usually listed right on the admissions website. If you’re from Ohio, for example, find the officer who handles Ohio and write directly to them. This shows you’ve done your homework, and it’s a subtle way of saying “I care enough not to be generic.” It’s also way more personal than blasting out a template. Bonus tip: double-check the spelling of their name. Nothing says “meh” like a misspelled greeting.

When should I send a demonstrated interest letter?

Timing is everything. The best window to send a demonstrated interest letter is after you’ve submitted your application but before decisions come out. That magical limbo period when admissions officers are sifting through apps and making tough calls? That’s your moment. You want your letter to land when they’re still building their class—not after the curtain closes. If you send it too early, it might get lost in the shuffle. Too late, and the decisions might already be made. Aim for that sweet spot: a couple weeks post-submission, just as they’re starting to look closer at applicants like you.

Do all colleges accept demonstrated interest letters?

Technically? No. But that doesn’t mean you can’t send one. Demonstrated interest letters aren’t formal requirements—you’re not submitting a tax form here. They’re really just emails with a purpose: showing you care about that school. Some colleges track interest carefully, while others say they don’t consider it. But even then, there’s no rule saying you can’t reach out. Sending a thoughtful email never hurts, especially if it’s personal, respectful, and enthusiastic. Just don’t expect a formal “receipt” or extra gold star. You’re making a connection, not checking a box. Worst case? You get no reply. Best case? You make an impression.

How to Write a Strong Demonstrated Interest Letter for College Admissions

Demonstrated interest letters are like the rom-com sidekicks of college admissions: incredibly helpful, often overlooked, and way more charming than people give them credit for. They’re not as flashy as the personal statement, and they don’t come with all the pressure of test scores or GPA. But when done right, they can spark just the kind of attention that turns a “maybe” into a “let’s take a closer look.”

Yet somehow, so many students either skip them or send in a one-liner that reads like a text message. Huge mistake. Colleges want to admit students who are actually excited to be there. That’s where a demonstrated interest letter comes in—it’s your way of waving a friendly but confident hello to your dream school, letting them know you’re not just applying to 15 colleges and seeing who bites.

Let’s break it all down.

Are Demonstrated Interest Letters Important?

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth your time to write a demonstrated interest letter, the answer is a resounding yes. While it might not be the flashiest part of your application, it can be one of the most strategic, and here’s why:

First Impressions Count

Imagine you’re an admissions officer. It’s 3 p.m. You’re on your fourth coffee and your 147th application. Then, suddenly, a letter pops up with a warm, thoughtful, slightly witty message from a student who actually knows your college exists outside of U.S. News & World Report. Jackpot.

A well-written, demonstrated interest letter helps you stand out in a sea of sameness. It’s the equivalent of making eye contact across a crowded room and not blinking. Schools like to see that you’ve taken the time to write directly to them, not just clicked a button on the Common App.

Shows Colleges That You’re Genuinely Interested

Let’s be real—colleges are like people on dating apps. If you send a vague message that could’ve gone to literally anyone, they’re not impressed. But if you mention their quirky mascot, your love for their improv club, or how their global health program lines up with your obsession with epidemiology, suddenly they’re listening.

Admissions officers are more likely to say yes to someone who is more likely to say yes back. If you’re genuinely into the school, and you take the time to show it, your odds improve.

How to Write a Demonstrated Interest Letter

With the right approach, you can craft a letter that’s confident, specific, and even a little charming. Here’s how to make yours stand out—in all the right ways.

Tips on Writing a Demonstrated Interest Letter

Start with a strong hook: “I first learned about Claremont McKenna while researching colleges with epic student-run podcasts, and I’ve been hooked ever since.” Boom. Better than “Hi, I’m interested in your school.”
Be specific about your interest: Mention a professor’s TED Talk, a unique course like “Art of the Personal Essay,” or the school’s legendary dorm waffle bar. Anything that proves you actually paid attention.
Connect your passions to what the school offers: Love marine biology? Talk about the field research program at Eckerd. Obsessed with social justice? Mention the community activism initiatives at Tufts.
Use a warm, conversational tone: You’re not writing a resume here. Imagine you’re emailing someone you admire. Enthusiastic, but not fan-girling too hard.
Keep it short and sweet: One page, tops. Nobody has time for a novel. This isn’t your Common App essay’s sequel.
Edit like your future depends on it: Because it might. Typos kill the vibe. Read it out loud, send it to your friend, bribe your English teacher to give it a quick once-over.

What to Include in a Demonstrated Interest Letter

Think of this letter as the movie trailer of your application—not the full-length feature film. It should tease your best highlights, show your personality, and make the reader want more.

Don’t dump every extracurricular you’ve ever done. Instead:

Introduce yourself with a little personality.
Share a genuine reason why this school is on your list.
Mention something specific that shows you’ve done your research.
Tie in one personal or academic goal that the school could help you reach.
Close with gratitude and enthusiasm.

And whatever you do, don’t make it sound like a recycled “Why This College?” essay. Those have their own place. This is about saying, “Hey, I see you, and I really like what I see,” without proposing marriage.

Key Takeaway

Your demonstrated interest letter isn’t just a formality—it’s a golden opportunity. It’s your chance to show colleges that you’re not just applying on autopilot, but that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely excited about what they have to offer. A thoughtful letter can make your name pop out of a crowded pool of applicants and land you right where you want to be: on their radar.

So take the time, write it well, and let your enthusiasm shine through. Colleges notice when students care. This is your moment to prove it.

Expert College Admissions Guidance: Get Help Writing Your Demonstrated Interest Letter from Cardinal Education

Before you hit send on that perfectly crafted letter, remember—you don’t have to navigate this whole admissions journey alone. That’s why we always strive to help students and their families the best way we can. Here at Cardinal Education, we offer help by giving you the necessary skills to succeed in your academic journey. With academic coaching and test prep, we ensure students are in their best shape to tackle any tasks! Contact us today and let our experts guide you!

Like what you see here? We are happy to permit you to use our material as long as you link back! Please refer to us as the Cardinal Education Blog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I send a demonstrated interest letter more than once?
Short answer: nope. Demonstrated interest letters are a one-and-done kind of thing. Think of it like a first impression—you don’t get a redo. Sending multiple versions can come off as pushy or, worse, spammy. You’re not trying to flood their inbox like a flash sale ad. You want to drop one thoughtful, memorable note that makes them go, “Hey, this student really gets us.” If you keep showing up with new versions, it starts to feel like you’re overthinking it (or panic-Googling at 2 a.m.). So make your one letter count. Say what you need to say—then trust it to do its job.
Who should I address my demonstrated interest letter to?
Step one: don’t go with “To Whom It May Concern.” That phrase retired with dial-up internet. Most colleges have regional admissions officers assigned to specific states or territories, and their names (and emails!) are usually listed right on the admissions website. If you’re from Ohio, for example, find the officer who handles Ohio and write directly to them. This shows you’ve done your homework, and it’s a subtle way of saying “I care enough not to be generic.” It’s also way more personal than blasting out a template. Bonus tip: double-check the spelling of their name. Nothing says “meh” like a misspelled greeting.
When should I send a demonstrated interest letter?
Timing is everything. The best window to send a demonstrated interest letter is after you’ve submitted your application but before decisions come out. That magical limbo period when admissions officers are sifting through apps and making tough calls? That’s your moment. You want your letter to land when they’re still building their class—not after the curtain closes. If you send it too early, it might get lost in the shuffle. Too late, and the decisions might already be made. Aim for that sweet spot: a couple weeks post-submission, just as they’re starting to look closer at applicants like you.
Do all colleges accept demonstrated interest letters?
Technically? No. But that doesn’t mean you can’t send one. Demonstrated interest letters aren’t formal requirements—you’re not submitting a tax form here. They’re really just emails with a purpose: showing you care about that school. Some colleges track interest carefully, while others say they don’t consider it. But even then, there’s no rule saying you can’t reach out. Sending a thoughtful email never hurts, especially if it’s personal, respectful, and enthusiastic. Just don’t expect a formal “receipt” or extra gold star. You’re making a connection, not checking a box. Worst case? You get no reply. Best case? You make an impression.