Introduction
Law school admissions can be highly competitive, and sometimes applicants find themselves waitlisted or deferred. While this situation can feel discouraging, it doesn’t mean the door is closed. One of the best strategies to strengthen your application is submitting a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI).
If you’re wondering how to write a letter of continued interest law school committees will actually notice, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down what a LOCI is, why it matters, how to structure it, and common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll be able to craft a polished and professional letter that highlights your commitment to the school and maximizes your chances of admission.
What Is A Law School Letter Of Continued Interest?
A Letter of Continued Interest is a formal communication sent to a law school after you’ve been waitlisted or deferred. Its purpose is to reaffirm your interest, update the admissions committee on any recent achievements, and explain why you remain a strong candidate for their program.
Unlike a personal statement, which introduces you as an applicant, a LOCI serves as a follow-up. It shows persistence, professionalism, and a genuine desire to attend that specific school.
Why A Letter Of Continued Interest Matters
Admissions committees often revisit waitlisted candidates when making final decisions. A well-written LOCI can:
- Demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the school.
- Highlight new accomplishments since submitting your original application.
- Clarify why their program is your top choice.
- Keep your name fresh in the committee’s mind.
If you’re serious about attending, knowing how to write a law school letter of continued interest can make a significant difference.
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When Should You Send A LOCI?
Timing is key. You don’t want to overwhelm admissions offices, but you also shouldn’t wait too long. Good times to send a LOCI include:
- Immediately after being waitlisted or deferred – A prompt response shows initiative.
- After receiving new achievements – For example, updated grades, promotions, research publications, or volunteer work.
- Close to decision deadlines – Sending one final update can remind the committee of your dedication.
How To Write A Letter Of Continued Interest Law School Committees Will Value
Crafting a LOCI requires balance: it should be professional, concise, and personalized. Here’s a breakdown of how to write it effectively.
Step 1: Use A Professional Format
Your LOCI should resemble a business letter. Use a clean font, include your contact information, and properly address the admissions office. A typical structure includes:
- Your name, address, email, and phone number
- Date
- Admissions Office contact details
- Formal salutation (“Dear [Admissions Committee]” or “Dear [Dean’s Name]”)
Step 2: Express Gratitude
Always begin by thanking the school for considering your application. Acknowledge the waitlist or deferral decision respectfully, and show appreciation for the opportunity.
Example:
“I want to thank the admissions committee for reviewing my application and offering me a place on the waitlist. I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to be considered.”
Step 3: Reaffirm Commitment To The School
Admissions officers want to know you’re genuinely interested in their program—not just any law school. Reiterate why the school is your top choice. Mention specific programs, faculty, clinics, or values that align with your goals.
Step 4: Provide Meaningful Updates
Since your initial application, what has changed? Share new academic, professional, or personal achievements. Examples include:
- Improved LSAT score
- Stronger semester GPA
- New work experiences or leadership roles
- Research or publications
- Community service involvement
Keep updates relevant and concise.
Step 5: Personalize Your Connection
Generic letters won’t stand out. Highlight aspects of the law school that resonate with your aspirations. For instance:
- A clinic that supports social justice if you’re passionate about advocacy.
- A faculty member whose research aligns with your interests.
- The school’s strong alumni network in your preferred career path.
Step 6: Restate Your Enthusiasm
Close your letter by reaffirming your commitment. If the school is your first choice, say so directly. Express readiness to enroll immediately if admitted.
Step 7: Keep It Concise
Your letter should be no longer than one page. Admissions officers value clarity and brevity.
Example Structure Of A Law School LOCI
Here’s a suggested outline you can follow when drafting your letter:
- Introduction – Thank the committee and acknowledge your waitlist/deferment.
- Reaffirmation – Clearly state your continued interest in attending.
- Updates – Share significant achievements since applying.
- Personalized Connection – Highlight why their program is a strong fit.
- Closing – Express gratitude again and reaffirm enthusiasm.
Tips For Writing An Effective LOCI
- Be Professional – Use respectful language and formal formatting.
- Stay Positive – Don’t dwell on disappointment about being waitlisted.
- Be Specific – Avoid vague statements; reference real experiences or programs.
- Proofread Carefully – Errors can hurt your professionalism.
- Be Honest – Only state the school is your top choice if it truly is.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Being Pushy – Don’t demand reconsideration or criticize the process.
- Rewriting Your Personal Statement – A LOCI should supplement, not duplicate, your application.
- Including Irrelevant Details – Focus on recent achievements, not unrelated stories.
- Sending Multiple Letters Without Purpose – Only send updates when you have something new or important to share.
How To Write A Law School Letter Of Continued Interest That Stands Out
To go beyond the basics, consider these advanced tips:
- Tailor Each LOCI To The School – Never send a generic letter. Admissions committees can easily spot a template.
- Show Growth – Even small progress, such as improved grades or leadership, can reflect positively.
- Connect Future Goals With The School’s Strengths – If you aspire to practice environmental law, mention the school’s environmental law clinic or faculty expertise.
- Demonstrate Professionalism Early – Treat this letter like practice for future legal correspondence.
Should You Send More Than One LOCI?
In most cases, one or two well-timed LOCIs are sufficient. Sending too many can come across as desperate. However, if you achieve something significant—like a higher LSAT score, new publication, or award—sending another update is appropriate.
Final Thoughts
Being waitlisted or deferred isn’t the end of your law school journey. A Letter of Continued Interest allows you to reaffirm your dedication, highlight new achievements, and strengthen your case for admission.
Now that you understand how to write a letter of continued interest law school committees respect, you can craft a professional, concise, and personalized message that leaves a lasting impression. Remember: persistence, professionalism, and authenticity go a long way in admissions.
