How important is demonstrated interest for highly selective colleges?

Hi everyone, I'm applying to some highly selective colleges, and I've been hearing a lot about the importance of demonstrated interest. I'm not sure how much it matters for these schools, and I'm wondering if I should be putting more effort into showing my interest. Can anyone provide some insight? Thanks so much!

Hey there! I can understand why you'd be curious about the role of demonstrated interest in your college applications. My child went through a similar process not too long ago. For highly selective colleges, demonstrated interest can be a factor, but it usually isn't a make-or-break criterion. These schools receive a large number of applications, and they focus more on the overall strength of your application, including your academic performance, extracurriculars, and essays. That being said, showing genuine interest can help to some extent, especially at schools that track demonstrated interest. You can do this by attending college fairs, visiting campuses (if feasible), and participating in virtual events. Even just reaching out to the admissions office with thoughtful questions can show that you've done your research. Just remember to prioritize the main components of your application, and don't stress too much about demonstrated interest. Best of luck with your applications!