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Demonstrated interest refers to the ways in which a student shows interest in a particular school, including visiting campuses, contacting admissions officers, attending prospective student events, and even using the school's online resources.
Let's face it: The college admissions process is notoriously competitive. In recent decades, it has become increasingly difficult to get into college. The average acceptance rate in the United States is just under 70%.
Gone are the days when admissions officers only looked at a prospective student's grades and test scores. Today, students must contend with a whole host of factors that schools secretly look for.
The demonstrated interest is on this list.
The role of demonstrated interest
As college applications start to increase again, colleges are increasingly relying on demonstrated interest to manage enrollment rates. By tracking and predicting how likely you are to attend their college if you are accepted, admissions officers can make more informed decisions about who they admit. A higher level of demonstrated interest means a higher chance of enrolling, making you a more attractive candidate for that college.
Why proven interest is important for universities
As mentioned above, a student's demonstrated interest helps an admissions office manage the admissions process and expected enrollment numbers. But it also helps in several other ways by:
- Aligning new students’ values with institutional priorities: By identifying who is most interested, universities can make strategic decisions to create a diverse incoming class that also moves the university closer to its goals and objectives.
- Creating a loyal and enthusiastic student body: Colleges want to admit students who are truly passionate about attending that particular college and who can contribute to a vibrant campus community.
- Ensuring student retention rate: Students who are interested and engaged in their campus community are more likely to stay enrolled and complete their studies.
- Predicting tuition fee revenues and resource allocation: Universities need to predict enrollment rates to more accurately forecast tuition revenues, which in turn determine the amount of money available for financial aid, faculty, and support services.
- Anticipating program demand: Demonstrated interest helps admissions offices predict demand for specific programs and majors, giving them time to adjust class offerings, recruit additional faculty, and ensure that other necessary resources are available.
Benefits of demonstrating your interest
As a prospective student, showing interest can provide you with additional benefits besides increasing your chances of admission. Consider it another part of your strategic approach to the admissions process. Here are some other benefits to consider:
- Building a relationship with the admissions office: Admissions staff deal with MANY prospective students. Regular and meaningful interactions with this staff can leave a lasting (positive) impression. They are certainly more likely to remember a student who was well prepared, asked lots of good questions, and shared their excitement about the opportunities ahead.
- Learn more about your college/program: The more you interact with a school, the more you'll learn about the campus culture, community, academic programs, and things that typically matter most to students. The more comfortable you feel with a prospective school, the better you can make sure you're a good fit and the more confident you'll be in your decision to attend.
- Have the opportunity to network early: Meeting with students and faculty early on will help you build trust and potential relationships that can ease your transition into college. This will help you build a network of students and faculty who are willing to offer advice and support.
- Here’s how to boost your confidence for the admissions process: The first step is almost always the hardest – but showing up and actively interacting with staff and students can really boost your confidence. Plus, you can use your interactions and experiences on campus to craft a more personal application letter.
- Access to exclusive events for prospective students: Some schools offer special events to students who have shown interest. These may include exclusive programs, workshops, or mentoring opportunities. If you can attend, these events can really reinforce your interest and commitment to a school.
Ways to show interest
Now you're probably wondering how you can actually show your interest in a college. Here are some of the most common ways students show their interest.
- Take a campus tour: Signing up for a personal campus tour is perhaps the strongest sign of your interest. It shows that you are investing time and energy to tour the school, get a feel for the campus environment, and learn what the school can offer you.
- Participation in events: Whether online or in person, attending prospective student events, information sessions, or application/enrollment workshops shows that you are willing to gather the necessary information and know what you are getting into.
- Chat with the Admissions Office: Contacting admissions staff via email or phone with thoughtful questions and/or following up with them after a tour or event lets them know you are continuing to evaluate the school for suitability, which can leave a positive impression.
- Interact with the school through social media: This may be the easiest way for you to get in touch with a school you're interested in. And that's OK, because most schools now track student engagement with their online content! So what is engagement? You can follow the school's social media accounts and like their posts.
- How to apply for Early Action or Early Decision: Applying early is clearly the second strongest signal of interest. It shows that you are deeply committed to the college, as early applicants are usually eager to get admitted and get started!
ⓘ Pro tip: Proven interest counts towards scholarships
When applying for a college scholarship, you can stand out from the crowd by showing interest in the scholarship provider. For example, follow the scholarship provider on social media, interact with them, and attend events when appropriate.
Tips for 11th and 12th grade high school students
Colleges typically evaluate demonstrated interest as part of the overall application review process. This means that your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and special talents are considered along with your specific interest in a school.
Because each school weighs demonstrated interest differently, it's important to do your research, educate yourself, and read up on how demonstrated interest is considered in a college's admissions decision. You may want to start with this list of schools that place particular emphasis on demonstrated interest.
Whether you're just starting to research colleges or are already in the middle of the application process, here are some tips to help you highlight your interest:
- Start early: Do your research thoroughly and contact prospective schools early, then consistently engage with those schools in a way that reflects your interests and priorities.
- Use available resources: Take advantage of admissions counselors, local college fairs, and other online resources to learn more about your potential schools.
- Keep a log: Make notes of your meetings and conversations with university staff (especially their names) so that you can draw on specific pros and cons to help you make your decision.
The conclusion
In today's competitive college admissions environment, demonstrated interest has become an increasingly important factor for both students and universities. For colleges, tracking demonstrated interest helps manage enrollment, forecast tuition revenue, ensure student retention, and align student goals with institutional goals.
When students show interest, they gain early networking opportunities, gain a better understanding of their chosen major, improve their chances of admission, and help them feel more prepared for their academic future. Overall, showing interest can be a powerful tool for success, leading to more informed decisions and enriching college experiences.
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