What is Demonstrated Interest and Why Do Colleges Consider It?

Recently, I hosted a college meeting with admissions representatives from the University of Delaware, North Carolina State, College of Charleston, and the University of Vermont. In addition to learning a lot about each college, the topic of demonstrated interest was discussed.

Demonstrated interest was not only discussed, but the level of importance it plays in the college admissions process was reinforced. While considered a 'soft quality' by admissions officers, demonstrated interest can play a significant role in whether a student is accepted to a particular school. 

As the name implies, demonstrated interest shows the degree of interest a prospective student shows in a college. The schools I met with, except for North Carolina State that does not track demonstrated interest, all had similar advice. Students need to learn the basics of the college where they are applying, and they need to show, through specific key actions, that they like the school and are learning as much as they can about the college. 

Colleges may track how many times a student opens an email and clicks on the links to the school. This becomes particularly important when a student is being deferred or waitlisted. One college representative even said this could determine how fast they accept a student who is applying to their school, based on the data they collected. 

Registering for a virtual tour demonstrates interest if it is done correctly. The student needs to use the same email address they will use for their common application. If parents register for tours using their email address, and then the student uses their own email to apply to college, this does not show a demonstrated interest on the part of the student. For colleges that track interst, this could negatively affect the student's chances of acceptance. 

The bottom line is that students should be the ones registering for college tours and virtual visits. All correspondence with the college should be with the student's email address, not parents. With many schools going test-optional, demonstrated interest may play a key role in whether a student is accepted. 

Colleges need to know which applicants are really interested in attending. By demonstrating interest in the school, you not only become more confident in your selection, but you may be strengthening your chance of acceptance.