Like the sport to be played in New Orleans this weekend, the world of selective admissions could be called a game of inches. One way students can earn a slight edge in the process is through something called ‘demonstrated interest’, a consideration apart from the evaluation of academic and extracurricular competitiveness that looks instead at evidence that a student would actually matriculate if attended. Demonstrated interest is how colleges see if a student is genuinely excited about attending. It includes things like visiting campus, attending virtual info sessions, or engaging with admissions reps. Some schools track this to help decide who gets in, especially when choosing between similar applicants. While it won’t make up for weak grades or essays, it can give a small boost at schools that care about it. Not every college tracks interest, but if your student loves a school, showing it through visits or emails can help.
- Early Decision (ED) – Applying through ED is one of the strongest ways to demonstrate interest since it’s a binding agreement, meaning the student commits to attending if accepted. Colleges value ED applicants because it helps them predict their incoming class size and yield rate. While ED can sometimes improve admission chances, students should only choose this option if they are certain about the school and can afford it, as financial aid packages may not be as flexible. If a student isn’t 100% sure, applying Early Action (EA) (if available) can still show interest without the binding commitment.
- Campus Visit – Visiting a college in person is a great way to show enthusiasm. Official tours, information sessions, and even casual visits where students sign in with admissions help demonstrate genuine interest. Some colleges track these visits as part of their admissions review. Beyond impressing the school, visiting allows students to get a real feel for the campus, helping them determine if it’s truly the right fit. After a visit, students can also reference specific experiences in their “Why This College?” essay, making their application more personal and compelling. Even taking notes during a visit can help when writing essays later.
- Virtual Information Session – If an in-person visit isn’t possible, virtual sessions or webinars are a great alternative. Many colleges offer live presentations where admissions officers discuss academics, campus life, and the application process. Some even have Q&A sessions where students can ask questions. Attending these sessions shows engagement, and some schools track participation in their records. Students should make sure to register using the same email they’ll use for their application, so their interest is recorded. Taking notes and following up with an email to the admissions office can also reinforce their enthusiasm.
- Interviews – Not all colleges offer interviews, but when they do, participating is a great way to show interest and make a lasting impression. Some interviews are evaluative (factoring into admissions decisions), while others are informational (helping students learn more about the school). Either way, an interview gives applicants a chance to discuss their goals, ask thoughtful questions, and express why the school is a great fit. A strong, engaging conversation can reinforce an applicant’s enthusiasm and highlight qualities that may not be as obvious in a written application. Following up with a thank-you email also leaves a positive impression.
Here are some of the colleges that are popular with our students who consider demonstrated interest:
Baylor University
Case Western Reserve University
Dartmouth College
Marquette University
New York University
Northwestern University
Michigan State
Elon University
Skidmore College
