What is a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI), and why should I write one?

A LOCI is a short letter you send to a college where you've been waitlisted to indicate your continued interest in attending. This is your opportunity to let the admissions committee know of any recent successes and remind them of why you would be a perfect fit. Among other waitlisted applicants, a well-written LOCI will help you stand out. Colleges seek students who are passionate about their institution; hence, showing real interest and offering relevant updates will increase your chances of acceptance. Remember, a LOCI doesn’t 100% guarantee admission. However, it keeps you on the school’s radar and reinforces your commitment.

What should I include in my LOCI?

Your LOCI should consist of four main sections—gratitude, updates, reiterated interest, and a strong closing—all of which should only be one page long. First, let the admissions committee know you appreciate that they are considering your application. Share any fresh successes—better marks, leadership positions, honors, or extracurricular activities. Remind them of certain programs or opportunities that appeal to you to help reaffirm why this university is your first choice. Finally, wrap up with gratitude and a professional closing, expressing your continued interest and willingness to provide more information. Overall, make sure to keep it concise, authentic, and focused. That way, you can make a good impression.

Can I submit additional materials along with my LOCI?

Certain colleges let waitlisted students turn in revised grades, an extra essay, or another letter of reference. Send an updated transcript if your academic achievement has improved. If you have notable successes, a fresh letter of recommendation from a supervisor, teacher, or mentor could be quite valuable. Before sending anything, though, make sure to check the institution's waitlist policy since not all of them accept supplementary materials. If they permit it, just provide relevant updates supporting your application. Submitting improved, relevant updates—not just additional paperwork—can differentiate you from other waitlist applicants and prove your continued interest and qualifications for admission.

How long do waitlist decisions take, and what are my chances of getting in?

Waitlist decisions vary by school and can take weeks or even months, often extending into summer. The number of openings, the school's yield rate, and the strength of your application will all affect your chances of admittance. While some universities just accept a small number, others acknowledge a significant portion off their waitlist. Top colleges historically have waitlist admission rates between 5% and 16%. While waiting, maintain or boost your academic performance, submit a solid LOCI, and think about backup choices. Always keep in mind that patience and strategic follow-ups can make a difference, but it’s always smart to prepare for multiple possibilities.

Waitlisted But Still Hopeful: How to Write a Strong Letter of Continued Interest

So, you’ve been waitlisted. Not exactly the news you were hoping for—but don’t lose hope just yet. A waitlist isn’t a rejection, and what you do next could make all the difference.

It’s now time to write your Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI). Think of it as your second chance to impress the admissions committee. Don’t think of it as a mere formality, because this is your opportunity to convince them that you belong at their school, highlight any new achievements, and prove that you’re still just as excited about joining their incoming class.

A weak, generic LOCI won’t do you any favors. If you want to stand out, you need to be strategic, persuasive, and—above all—genuine. Lucky for you, our admissions experts know how to craft a compelling, well-structured LOCI that keeps you on their radar for all the right reasons. Want to know how? Let’s get started.

How to Write a LOCI That Stands Out

Your letter doesn’t need to be long (keep it to one page max), but it should be clear, enthusiastic, and professional.

Open with Gratitude & Enthusiasm
Start by thanking the admissions committee for reviewing your application and for keeping you on the waitlist. Then, make it clear that you’re still very interested in attending.

Example:
Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. First, I want to sincerely thank you and the admissions committee for reviewing my application and offering me a spot on the waitlist. I remain deeply interested in [School Name] and would be honored to attend if given the opportunity.

If this school is truly your #1 choice, say it. Colleges love students who are all in.
Provide Meaningful Updates
Since submitting your application, you’ve likely made progress in academics, extracurricular activities, or personal projects. Maybe you won an award, took on a leadership role, improved your grades, or completed a significant project. This is your chance to show that you haven’t just been waiting—you’ve been actively growing and improving. Focus on updates that strengthen your application and make you an even better candidate than before.

Example:
“Since submitting my application, I have continued to challenge myself academically and personally. Recently, I [describe achievement], which has strengthened my passion for [your field of interest]. Additionally, I was honored to [mention leadership role or extracurricular milestone], allowing me to develop valuable skills in [relevant area].”

Don’t just list things—explain why they matter and how they make you an even stronger candidate.
Reaffirm Why You’re a Perfect Fit
Show that you’re not just interested in any school—you’re passionate about this one. Mention specific programs, professors, or opportunities that excite you and how you’d contribute to the campus community.

Example:
“At [School Name], I am excited about the possibility of contributing to [specific program, club, or initiative]. Whether through [activity related to your strengths], collaborating with peers, or engaging in [specific research or service opportunities], I am eager to be an active member of your campus community.”

The more specific, the better! Skip generic statements like “I love the school’s culture” and instead mention a professor’s research, a student organization, or a special program that aligns with your interests.
Wrap It Up with Gratitude & Positivity
Finally, close your letter with gratitude and professionalism. Reiterate your enthusiasm, thank them again for their time, and let them know you’re happy to provide any additional information if needed. Keep it concise—about one page is ideal. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no grammar mistakes or typos.

Example:
“Thank you again for your time and consideration. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to remain on the waitlist, and I hope to contribute to the [School Name] community in the future. Please let me know if there is anything else I can provide to support my application.”

Sincerely,
[Your Name].

Should You Submit Additional Materials if Waitlisted?

Some Ivy League institutions allow waitlisted students to submit more material, including most recent grades, an extra essay, new extracurricular activities or internships, or a new letter of recommendation. This is a great way to show admissions officials why you still qualify.

If your academic achievement has improved since you applied, updated grades will surely help. Higher marks in advanced courses or participation in new academic projects show development and ongoing commitment. Since many institutions give senior-year performance great weight, showing an upward trend may help you.

Certain institutions might also allow you one more opportunity to turn in another essay. This is your chance to provide fresh concepts that were not included in your initial submission. If you get the chance, focus on what’s new since you first applied rather than just repeating what you’ve already said. Maybe you took on a leadership role, completed an exciting project, or had a personal experience that deepened your passion for your field. Show how you’ve grown and why you’re an even stronger candidate now!

Furthermore, an extra letter of recommendation can also help to boost your application, especially if it comes from someone who can highlight a fresh side of your character or achievements. Check some pointers that were not included in your first application—may it be insightful comments from a supervisor who can speak to your work ethic, a coach or mentor who has seen your growth, or a teacher who has lately seen you shine in class.

Make sure whatever extra you give truly offers something fresh and valuable for your submission. Instead of a deluge of pointless paperwork, admissions officials seek updates that significantly support your deservingness for a place. Always review the particular waiting rules of the institution; some colleges expressly say they do not accept additional materials. If they allow them, seize the chance to highlight your strong points and show your ongoing enthusiasm in visiting.

Waitlist Admission Rates & LOCI: How Top Universities Handle Waitlisted Applicants

If you’ve been waitlisted at a top U.S. university, don’t lose hope! Many schools allow students to submit a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI), giving you a chance to reaffirm your enthusiasm and share any new accomplishments. But how likely are you to actually get off the waitlist? It depends—each school’s acceptance rate varies from year to year. Here’s a look at how some top universities have handled their waitlists in recent admissions cycles:

Vanderbilt University: Vanderbilt anticipated accepting approximately 10% of its incoming class from the waitlist.
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley): Historically, UC Berkeley has had a waitlist acceptance rate of around 16.55%.
Duke University: Duke’s waitlist acceptance rate has averaged about 9.87% in recent years.
Cornell University: For the Class of 2027, Cornell admitted 362 students from the waitlist, resulting in a 5.87% acceptance rate.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): UCLA’s waitlist acceptance rate has been approximately 12%.

Keep in mind that waitlist acceptance rates aren’t set in stone. They can change depending on how many students apply, how many actually enroll, and what each school needs that year. According to the National Association of College Admissions Counseling, colleges on average admit 20% of students off the waitlist, but at the most selective institutions, that figure drops to 7%.

For the latest and most reliable info, check out the admissions websites of the schools you’re interested in or reach out to their admissions offices directly.

Need Help Writing a Strong LOCI? Let Cardinal Education Help You

Being waitlisted can be frustrating, but a well-written Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) can improve your chances. Not sure where to start? That’s where an admissions consultant can help.

At Cardinal Education, we know what colleges look for in a strong LOCI. We’ll help you highlight key updates, reinforce your enthusiasm, and make sure your letter stands out.

Don’t stress over what to say or how to say it—let’s work on it together! Reach out to Cardinal Education, and we’ll help you craft a compelling LOCI that gives you the best shot at getting off the waitlist.

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.

What Should Waitlisted and Rejected Students Do in the Aftermath of Ivy Day?

Ways to Support Your Child Through the College Acceptance (and Rejection) Process

Frequently Asked Questionsreallydumb

What is a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI), and why should I write one?
A LOCI is a short letter you send to a college where you’ve been waitlisted to indicate your continued interest in attending. This is your opportunity to let the admissions committee know of any recent successes and remind them of why you would be a perfect fit. Among other waitlisted applicants, a well-written LOCI will help you stand out.

Colleges seek students who are passionate about their institution; hence, showing real interest and offering relevant updates will increase your chances of acceptance. Remember, a LOCI doesn’t 100% guarantee admission. However, it keeps you on the school’s radar and reinforces your commitment.
What should I include in my LOCI?
Your LOCI should consist of four main sections—gratitude, updates, reiterated interest, and a strong closing—all of which should only be one page long. First, let the admissions committee know you appreciate that they are considering your application. Share any fresh successes—better marks, leadership positions, honors, or extracurricular activities. Remind them of certain programs or opportunities that appeal to you to help reaffirm why this university is your first choice.

Finally, wrap up with gratitude and a professional closing, expressing your continued interest and willingness to provide more information. Overall, make sure to keep it concise, authentic, and focused. That way, you can make a good impression.
Can I submit additional materials along with my LOCI?
Certain colleges let waitlisted students turn in revised grades, an extra essay, or another letter of reference. Send an updated transcript if your academic achievement has improved. If you have notable successes, a fresh letter of recommendation from a supervisor, teacher, or mentor could be quite valuable.

Before sending anything, though, make sure to check the institution’s waitlist policy since not all of them accept supplementary materials. If they permit it, just provide relevant updates supporting your application. Submitting improved, relevant updates—not just additional paperwork—can differentiate you from other waitlist applicants and prove your continued interest and qualifications for admission.
How long do waitlist decisions take, and what are my chances of getting in?
Waitlist decisions vary by school and can take weeks or even months, often extending into summer. The number of openings, the school’s yield rate, and the strength of your application will all affect your chances of admittance. While some universities just accept a small number, others acknowledge a significant portion off their waitlist.

Top colleges historically have waitlist admission rates between 5% and 16%. While waiting, maintain or boost your academic performance, submit a solid LOCI, and think about backup choices. Always keep in mind that patience and strategic follow-ups can make a difference, but it’s always smart to prepare for multiple possibilities.