How important is demonstrated interest in the college admissions process?

Hello! I'm a high school junior and I've been hearing a lot about demonstrated interest lately. How important is it to show colleges that you're genuinely interested in attending their school? Are there specific ways to demonstrate interest that are more effective than others? Thanks for any advice!

Hi there! Demonstrated interest can play a role in the college admissions process, but its significance can vary depending on the institution. For some colleges, particularly smaller liberal arts colleges, demonstrated interest can be quite important. They want to see that you've done your research and genuinely want to attend their school. For larger universities, demonstrated interest might not be as crucial, but it can still help your chances of admission.

There are several ways to show demonstrated interest, such as visiting the campus (either in-person or virtually), attending college fairs and info sessions, and reaching out to admissions officers or professors with thoughtful questions. One of the most effective ways to demonstrate interest is by writing a strong, well-researched 'Why X College' essay that highlights specific aspects of the school that match your interests and goals.

Remember, though, that while demonstrated interest can be a positive factor in your application, it's important to focus on the core aspects of your application, like your grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities. Best of luck with your college search!