What is the role of demonstrated interest in admissions?

• A. Demonstrated interest is required by all colleges.
• B. Demonstrated interest has no impact on admissions.
• C. Demonstrated interest can influence some colleges; not universal; advise pursuing visits or communications when feasible and aligned with genuine interest and resources.
• D. Only apply to schools that require visits.

Answer: (C)

Demonstrated interest is about showing a college you’re genuinely excited about attending through actions like campus visits, information sessions, interviews, or thoughtful outreach. It matters at only a subset of colleges; some institutions consider it to help predict who will enroll, while others don’t look at it at all or discourage trying to influence admissions. If you can, pursue visits or outreach when it fits your schedule and budget and aligns with real interest, but don’t feel you must chase it at every school. For colleges that don’t consider demonstrated interest, focus on your academics, recommendations, and essays just like any other applicant.