The SCEA Deferral: How to Write a Winning Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI)
A SCEA deferral is not a denial—it is an invitation to stay in the game. Your Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) can tip the balance if it proves two things: meaningful growth since submission and genuine intent to enroll if admitted.
1) Send the LOCI fast—but only with substance
Aim to send your LOCI within 7–10 days of the deferral notice. That window keeps you top of mind while avoiding a rushed, content-light note. Draft once, edit twice, and include verifiable updates.
2) The five-part LOCI framework
- Gratitude + clarity: Thank the committee and state you remain strongly interested.
- New achievements: 2–4 concrete updates (awards, grades, research milestones, leadership wins).
- Academic fit: 1–2 specific faculty, labs, courses, or programs you will pursue.
- Campus contribution: How you will add value (clubs, service, cultural groups, new initiatives).
- Commitment signal: If true, say the school remains your clear first choice and you will attend if admitted.
3) What not to include
- Rehashing your application essay—add only new information.
- Complaints about the process or comparisons to other schools.
- Exaggerated promises you cannot document.
4) Timing with your RD list
Send the LOCI, then immediately finish RD submissions. If you secure a major December achievement (state championship, publication, national award) after sending your LOCI, ask your counselor to submit an additional update in January.
LOCI Template (copy/paste)
Dear <Admissions Committee>, thank you for reviewing my application. <School> remains my first choice. Since applying, I have <new achievements>. At <School>, I plan to join <courses/labs/programs> and contribute to <clubs/initiatives>. If admitted, I will attend and withdraw my other applications. Thank you for your continued consideration.
5. Strategy: The "Waitlist" vs. "Deferral" Difference
Remember, a deferral means you are still being considered for the general class. A waitlist (which happens in April) is a different beast entirely. Your LOCI is your primary tool to stay competitive while the admissions office builds the rest of their class.
Your deferral action checklist
- [ ] Draft LOCI within 7–10 days with 2–4 concrete updates.
- [ ] Add specific academic fit (courses/labs/faculty) and campus contributions.
- [ ] Coordinate with counselor for January update; attach any new awards.
- [ ] Finish RD apps before January 1 to avoid deadline crunch.
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