How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest

Have you been waitlisted or deferred from your dream graduate school? Writing a letter of continued interest can improve your chances of acceptance.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a letter of continued interest is, why it’s important, and how to write a successful one. Here are all tools and tips you need to stand out in the admissions process.

Let’s get started!

What Is a Letter of Continued Interest?

A letter of continued interest is a letter that expresses your continued enthusiasm and interest in a graduate program after you’ve already submitted your application.

Think of it as a follow-up to your initial application, an opportunity to remind the admissions committee of your qualifications and reiterate your interest in the program.

Unlike a thank-you letter or a letter of intent, which focus on expressing gratitude or committing to attending the program, a letter of continued interest is meant to update the admissions committee and provide additional context to your application.

Why Write a Letter of Continued Interest for Graduate School Admissions?

Writing a letter of continued interest for graduate school admissions shows your dedication not only to pursuing your academic and career goals, but also to the specific institution to which you’re writing. It’s also an opportunity to update the admissions committee on any new accomplishments or experiences you’ve had since submitting your application.

A well-crafted letter can make a significant difference in the admissions process, especially if you are on a waitlist or have yet to hear back from the admissions committee. “The Letter of Continued Interest can be a tool used to provide visibility to the admissions committee,” says Bettsy McKlaine, Director of Degree Completion and Graduate Admissions, Neumann University. “For example, if you have not heard back regarding a decision on your application or if you were put on a waitlist, writing a letter of continued interest is a way for your name to be visible to the admissions committee. It is another touch point with the admissions team and throughout the enrollment process.” 

How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest for Graduate School Admissions

Follow these tips and guidelines to craft a compelling letter that will set you apart from other applicants and improve your chances of acceptance:

Formatting Your Letter

• Use professional business letter format
• Include a header with your name and contact information
• Use a professional greeting and closing
• Keep the letter to one page or less

Tips for Writing

• Reiterate your passion for the program
• Avoid repeating information from your original application
• Be professional, clear, and concise

Structuring Your Letter

Opening paragraph: 

• Begin your letter by reiterating your passion for the program and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to apply

Body paragraphs: 

• Use one or two paragraphs to update the admissions committee on any new accomplishments or experiences
• Explain how you can contribute to the program and academic community
• Provide concrete examples of how you’ve grown or developed your academic studies
• Highlight any skills, experiences, or unique perspectives that will add value to the program

Closing paragraph:

• Express gratitude for their consideration, restate your interest in the program, and invite them to contact you for further information

When you’re finished writing your letter, it’s crucial to proofread it carefully for spelling and grammatical errors. Additionally, have a friend or mentor read your letter to provide feedback and ensure it’s professional, clear, and well written.

Remember, a well-crafted letter can make a significant difference in the admissions process, so take the time to carefully craft your letter and seek feedback before submitting it.

Example Letter of Continued Interest for Graduate School Admissions 

To give you a better understanding of what a well-crafted letter of continued interest looks like, check out the following example:

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my continued interest in the Master’s program in Environmental Science at [University]. Since submitting my application, I have had the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the field of environmental science, which has further strengthened my passion for the program.

Through my work at a local environmental nonprofit, I have been able to apply the knowledge I gained during my undergraduate studies to real-world situations. I have also had the opportunity to collaborate with other professionals in the field and contribute to research projects focused on environmental conservation and sustainability.

These experiences have reinforced my belief that the Master’s program at [University] is the best fit for my academic and career goals. I am confident that the program’s curriculum, faculty, and research opportunities align perfectly with my interests and will provide me with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the field of environmental science.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the admissions committee for considering my application and express my continued interest in the program. I believe that my unique perspective and experiences make me a strong candidate for the program, and I am eager to contribute to the academic community through research, service, and leadership.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Remember that this is just an example, and your letter of continued interest should be unique to your own experiences and qualifications. Use this example as a guiding light and incorporate the tips and guidelines in this blog to craft a letter that best represents your passion, goals, and contributions to the program.

Tips for Following Up After Submitting Your Letter

After submitting your letter of continued interest to your dream school, you’ll want to follow up with the admissions committee to ensure they received it.

Begin by waiting a reasonable amount of time, usually around two to three weeks, to give the admissions committee enough time to review your letter and respond.

When you’re ready to follow up, contact the admissions office by email or phone. Use a professional tone, and thank them for their time.

In your follow-up communication, reiterate your passion for the program and why you believe it best fits your academic and career goals. This is also an opportunity to provide any new updates and how they demonstrate your qualifications and fit for the program.

Remember to respect their time and keep your follow-up brief and to the point. Avoid being pushy or demanding, and show that you appreciate their consideration of your application.

Reach Your Graduate Goals

Writing a letter of continued interest for graduate school admissions can effectively demonstrate your passion, qualifications, and dedication to your dream program.

If you’re a degree-seeking adult looking for guidance in finding the best graduate program, Abound can help!

Our college guidance system can assist you in finding the perfect program to achieve your academic and career goals. We work with nationally recognized colleges offering programs in various fields, including graduate degrees, nursing degrees, and MBAs, with on-campus, online, or hybrid learning options.

Visit our website to learn more and start your journey toward finding the perfect graduate program today!