How do colleges know if you open their emails?

When colleges email you, can they track if you actually open the emails or not? Does this affect my application in any way? I'm worried about missing out on any demonstrated interest points due to unopened emails.

Yes, colleges can track whether or not you open their emails. They may use pixel tracking, which is a tiny image embedded in the email that sends a signal back when the email is opened. Therefore, they can see if and when you've opened the email.

However, keep in mind that demonstrated interest varies in its significance from college to college. Some schools, particularly smaller, private universities, may consider demonstrated interest as a factor in their admissions process, but it's typically a relatively minor one.

Even colleges that do track demonstrated interest do not rely solely on email open rates. They'll also look at other factors such as your campus visits (if possible), interaction at college fairs, or correspondence with admissions officers.

While it's a good idea to open and read the emails that colleges send you, ultimately, your academic record, test scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and essays carry much more weight in the admissions process. Email engagement should not be a primary concern in your college admission strategy.

In essence, it's beneficial to display interest in colleges you're genuinely passionate about, but make sure it's authentic and don't stress too much about whether or not you've opened every single email.