The Power of Demonstrated Interest in Today’s Competitive College Process

Demonstrated Interest Could Be the Key to College Admission Success

Are you a parent focused on helping your child achieve the perfect SAT score or an impeccable GPA? That’s totally understandable. These academic metrics have traditionally been seen as the gatekeepers to college admission. But here’s the truth that many families don’t realize: today’s college admissions process looks far beyond test scores and grades.

In fact, colleges want to know who your student really is—not just what they’ve scored on standardized tests or what their transcripts say. They want to see passion, personality, leadership, and commitment to their communities. And an increasingly important factor in this process is something called demonstrated interest.

What Is Demonstrated Interest?

Demonstrated interest is the level of genuine enthusiasm and engagement a student shows toward a particular college or university. Admissions officers use it as a way to gauge how likely a student is to enroll if accepted. Why does this matter? Because colleges carefully manage their enrollment numbers and want to admit students who are genuinely excited to join their campus community.

A recent national survey revealed that over 60% of colleges assign at least some importance to demonstrated interest during the admissions decision-making process. That means the effort your student makes to show they want to attend can really impact their chances.

Why Is Demonstrated Interest So Important?

Colleges receive thousands, sometimes tens of thousands, of applications each year. Test scores and GPAs alone don’t help admissions officers distinguish between many highly qualified applicants. Demonstrated interest acts as a tiebreaker—helping schools identify students who are not only qualified but also motivated to be part of their unique campus culture.

Plus, from the college’s perspective, admitting students who are more likely to enroll helps them maintain stable class sizes, budget effectively, and build a vibrant, engaged student body.

What Are Colleges Looking For Beyond Scores?

Aside from grades and test results, colleges want to see:

• Passion and personality: What excites your student academically and personally?

• Academic growth and challenge: Are they pushing themselves with rigorous coursework?

• Leadership and commitment: Have they held leadership roles or shown dedication in activities or clubs?

• Community involvement: How have they contributed to their school or local community?

• Communication: Have they reached out to admissions or engaged with the school’s events and resources?

All these help paint a fuller picture of the student behind the application.

How Can Students Show Demonstrated Interest?

Showing interest is simpler than you might think and doesn’t require an overwhelming time commitment. Here are practical, effective ways your student can demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for their top colleges:

1. Visit the CampusIf possible, visiting the campus—even a second time—shows a serious commitment. Attend an official tour, sit in on a class, or explore student life activities. Each visit offers a chance to learn more and make a positive impression.

Example:

Sarah, a high school senior, visited her top-choice university twice during her senior year. She took notes on the campus vibe, talked with students, and sent a follow-

up email to her admissions counselor expressing what she loved most. When decision

time came, her demonstrated interest helped her stand out in a competitive pool.

2. Request an Informal InterviewMany colleges offer informal interviews, either in person or online. This is a golden opportunity to connect one-on-one with an admissions officer, ask thoughtful questions, and share why the school is a great fit.

Example:

Jason scheduled a virtual interview with a regional admissions officer. During the

interview, he discussed his passion for environmental science and asked insightful

questions about research opportunities. The counselor later noted his genuine

enthusiasm in her recommendation.

3. Complete Online Interest FormsSome schools have online forms for prospective students to express interest or request information. Filling these out keeps your student on the admissions radar.

4. Attend Campus or Virtual EventsFrom college fairs to webinars and info sessions, participating in these events signals engagement.

5. Follow and Engage on Social MediaFollowing the college’s official social media accounts and engaging with posts can demonstrate ongoing interest.

6. Communicate with Admissions CounselorsReach out via email or phone with sincere questions about programs or campus life. This can build rapport and show attentiveness.

What Happens After You Show Interest?

It’s important to remember that demonstrated interest is an ongoing process. Colleges may track your student’s visits, event attendance, email communications, and even social media interactions. This cumulative engagement can tip the scales in your student’s favor—especially in competitive applicant pools.

It Only Takes a Few Minutes a Week

Here’s the best news: showing demonstrated interest doesn’t mean spending hours every day. Even 10-15 minutes a week dedicated to one or two of these activities can make a big difference in the admissions process.

What Parents Are Saying

"I thought my daughter’s grades and scores would be enough, but after working with BestFit College Advisors, we learned how important it was for her to engage with her top schools beyond the application. Her campus visits and follow-up communications made a difference —she got accepted to her dream college!" — Ashleigh M.., Parent

"I never realized how much colleges pay attention to the small things like interviews and event attendance. BestFit helped my son create a manageable plan to show interest without overwhelming him. The personalized approach made all the difference with results-oriented approach." — Jackie K, Parent

How BestFit College Advisors Can Help

At BestFit College Advisors, we guide students in crafting a compelling story that highlights their strengths and genuine interest in their chosen schools. From writing vivid, authentic essays to building meaningful connections with admissions reps, we create a personalized plan that fits each student’s timeline and goals.

If you want to give your student an edge in this highly competitive landscape, reach out today. Together, we’ll build a roadmap to help your child showcase their unique qualities and demonstrate the kind of interest that colleges want to see.

Ready to get started?

📞 Call or Text Now: (207) 229-8603

Let’s make your student’s college dreams a reality.