Over the last decade, demonstrated interest in college admissions has become a significant factor. Many colleges use it to figure out which students are most likely to enroll if they are accepted. That’s because the acceptance rate, the number of yields, and the quality of the new class all need to be balanced.
Sometimes, when two applicants have similar backgrounds, the one who has shown interest through campus visits, emails, or virtual events is more likely to receive the offer. So, I believe that knowing about this factor can really help you.
What is Demonstrated Interest in College Admissions?
Demonstrated interest is a metric used to measure your enthusiasm. In simple terms, it’s how you show a school that you are genuinely excited about attending.
For example, if you attend information sessions, participate in student panels, or email an admissions officer with thoughtful questions, you’re signaling your commitment.
From my experience, highly selective schools (like those in the Ivy League) may not weigh this factor heavily because they already receive overwhelming interest. However, mid-sized and smaller colleges track demonstrated interest closely. That’s why I always tell my students that showing authentic interest can make you stand out in a competitive pool.
Out of 185 colleges and universities that shared their data with the National Association for College Admission Counseling, 15.7% rated demonstrated interest as very important in admissions decisions for fall 2023. Approximately 28% of schools viewed it as moderately important, while 31% reported that it held no importance at all.
How Do Colleges Track Demonstrated Interest?
Universities and colleges track demonstrated interest in several ways, often using both digital and in-person signals to gauge how serious you are about enrolling. Below are the most common methods:
- Campus Visits and Tours
Schools record when you sign up for a virtual or in-person official campus tour, open house, or information session. Even attending webinars is often logged in their system.
- Email Engagement
Admissions teams at colleges and universities monitor how you interact with their emails. Opening newsletters, clicking on links, and asking insightful questions in response are also considered excellent involvement.
- Visiting College Fairs
If you attend college fairs, student panels, or local events hosted by the school, they usually track your registration and participation.
- Online Portals
Many colleges use applicant portals. Logging in regularly, completing optional forms, or showing interest in specific programs can be noted.
- Direct Communication
Personalized emails to admissions officers or even short thank-you notes after interviews or events are documented.
- Social Media
Some universities track interactions with their official social media pages, such as attending a livestream Q&A or signing up for online student events.
Why Demonstrated Interest Matters in College Admissions?
Here’s the thing—when two prospective students have similar grades, test scores, and personal statements, colleges look for something extra to help them decide. That’s why many schools consider demonstrated interest.
It’s just like the school asking, “Are you really serious about us, or are we just one of the 20 colleges you applied to?”
From my experience as an admissions counselor, I’ve seen how this can tip the scales. One of my students didn’t have the highest test scores, but she attended virtual events and followed up with friendly, personalized emails. That effort made a difference in the admissions decisions.
Think of it this way: your college application contains more than numbers. Taking a little extra time to connect with a school (for example, chatting with staff during a tour or asking smart questions online) shows that you really want to be there.
In my opinion, genuine interest of this kind always stands out in the admissions process. The secret isn’t to overwhelm the admissions office with constant messages, but to show genuine enthusiasm and interest.
How to Show Demonstrated Interest in a College?
If you’re serious about getting into your top-choice school, you need to show your interest in ways that admissions officers can see.
From my experience, many colleges want students who are genuinely excited about becoming a part of the college community. In addition to your grades or test scores, schools also pay attention to how you interact with them throughout the application process.
Below are some of the best ways to show your interest and stand out as a motivated applicant.
1️⃣ Apply Early Decision or Early Action
One of the strongest ways to demonstrate your interest is to apply Early Decision or Early Action. These options tell schools that they are a top priority for you.
Admissions teams often view early applications as a clear sign of commitment, especially when many schools offer these programs.
2️⃣ Engage With the School Online
Make a habit of checking the school’s admissions website for general information, program updates, or events. Also, follow the school on social media and participate in their Q&A sessions or livestreams.
When you open their emails, click on links, and stay connected, it signals to admissions that you’re paying attention.
3️⃣ Use Email to Build Connections
To set yourself apart from the other applicants, respond to emails from the school or send polite, well-thought-out questions about academic programs or financial aid.
A genuine, short email to an admissions counselor can leave a lasting impression and demonstrate interest to colleges.
4️⃣ Be Present Throughout the Application Process
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of staying engaged. In my opinion, the more effort you put into showing that this prospective college is your priority, the better.
Whether it’s interacting on social media, reading updates, or applying early, these steps make your interest clear.
5️⃣ Connect with Admissions Representatives and Alumni
Another tip I always give my students is to email admissions officers with thoughtful questions.
But please, don’t ask something you can find on their website; instead, focus on unique topics like special programs or campus traditions.
Alumni events and student panels are another chance to connect and leave a positive impression.
Common Mistakes Students Make with Demonstrated Interest in Colleges
Showing interest in a school is great, but there’s definitely a point where it can backfire. I’ve seen students send an email from a college event follow-up every other day or show up to every single webinar without a real reason. Instead of helping, that kind of overkill can hurt your chances. Just be genuine and thoughtful, not pushy.
One big mistake is waiting until the last minute to show that you care. If you’re serious about a school, start early! Do some college research, make a list of colleges, and plan out how you’ll interact with them.
Another issue I see a lot? Students send generic thank-you emails or copy templates from the internet. Admissions officers read hundreds of messages every week—they can tell when you didn’t put in any effort.
In general, here’s what you should avoid:
- Overloading the admissions office with emails or unnecessary updates.
- Skipping basic college research and asking questions that are already on the website.
- Failing to review your application for ways to show specific interest in a school.
- Waiting until the last minute to sign up for events or connect with admissions.
Finally, track what you’ve done! Every college you interact with may log your engagement, so keep a simple spreadsheet of your emails, events, and tours. This makes it easy to reference your efforts later in essays or interviews.
Final Tips for College Applicants
So, think of demonstrated interest as the final touch that can make your application pop. Your GPA score, tests, and essays do most of the heavy lifting, but showing interest proves that you’re serious about this school. I’ve seen how admissions officers use these signals to figure out who would be a great fit for their campus.
One of the best ways to stand out during the college application process is by staying connected—attend events, read and respond to emails, and show that you’ve done your homework about the school. These small actions tell colleges you’re not just applying for the sake of it.
In my opinion, when strong academics meet genuine interest, it’s a winning combination. And if you need extra guidance, the best college admission consultants can help you handle the process like a pro.