Demonstrated Interest’ — The Hidden Factor in College Admissions
When students begin researching colleges, one of the most common questions that comes up is: “Do colleges really track how interested I am?”
The answer: sometimes — and when they do, it can make a real difference.
What Is Demonstrated Interest?
In simple terms, Demonstrated Interest (DI) refers to how much effort a student shows in getting to know a college — and how that college perceives the student’s enthusiasm about attending.
It’s the college’s way of answering a key question: “If we admit this student, how likely are they to enroll?”
Colleges are constantly balancing numbers. Their goal is to admit students who are both qualified and likely to say yes — so that their acceptances, in turn, yield a higher percentage of actual enrollments.
Do All Colleges Track It?
Not all colleges weigh demonstrated interest equally.
Some universities make it a formal part of their review process, meaning it can help tip the scale in your favor if your academic profile is already strong.
Others may not track it at all, especially large public universities that receive tens of thousands of applications.
Here’s how it plays out at a few well-known schools:
Tulane University is one of the most cited examples. Tulane openly values demonstrated interest. Students who attend info sessions — in person or virtual — follow their social media platforms, connect with admissions counselors, or write specific, personal “Why Tulane?” essays tend to have stronger outcomes. Tulane’s admissions team has even discussed how they look for students who’ve made a genuine effort to learn about the school.
American University (Washington, D.C.) also uses demonstrated interest meaningfully. AU tracks whether you’ve visited campus, attended a virtual event, opened their emails, or reached out thoughtfully to admissions staff — all of which can culminate in a stronger, more personal “Why AU?” essay.
Miami University of Ohio values engagement as part of its holistic review. Students who’ve interacted with the admissions office, joined webinars, or shown a sincere connection with the school are seen as more likely to enroll — and therefore, sometimes, more appealing to admit.
In contrast, some highly selective universities like Harvard or Stanford do not consider demonstrated interest because they already expect that most admitted students will enroll.
Why Colleges Care About It
Every college has what’s called a yield rate — the percentage of admitted students who actually enroll. High yield rates help colleges maintain rankings, manage class sizes, and forecast housing and course needs.
By tracking demonstrated interest, admissions offices can make more informed decisions and shape a class full of students who genuinely want to be there.
How Students Benefit Beyond Admissions
Spending time showing demonstrated interest isn’t just about getting noticed by a college — it’s also about gaining clarity for yourself.
When you attend a campus tour, sit in on a virtual panel, or engage with a current student, you begin to ask:
What kind of learning environment excites me?
Do I prefer a tight-knit community or a big campus buzz?
Does the school’s mission or academic philosophy align with how I want to grow?
The process of showing interest often becomes a process of defining your own priorities — what matters most to you socially, academically, and personally.
Practical Ways to Show Interest
If you’re applying to schools that value demonstrated interest, here are a few authentic ways to engage:
Visit campus if you can — or attend a virtual tour.
Join information sessions, webinars, or local admission events.
Open and engage with college emails (yes, they notice!).
Follow the college’s social media or student blogs for insight — and mention what stood out to you.
Write a strong, personalized “Why Us?” essay that reflects your real connection.
Demonstrated interest is not about playing a game — it’s about engaging with intention.
Whether or not your dream school tracks it, taking the time to learn about each college helps ensure that you’re not just trying to get in — but finding a place where you’ll truly thrive once you do.
