Despite a repeal of demonstrated interest in the admissions process in 2021, for this upcoming admissions cycle onwards, WashU has reinstated demonstrated interest and implemented rounds of Early Action applications.

Though the University makes demonstrated interest seem like a mere preference, a campus visit might even seem like a requirement for prospective students. The demonstrated interest policy has the opportunity to become an equitable policy through the implementation of equally-weighted virtual options, but if WashU Admissions does not clearly communicate their policies, students might hesitate to apply, not believing they can meet this perceived standard.

Admissions currently lists virtual information sessions, in-person or virtual Bear Chats, joining the ZeeMee online community, and speaking to admissions officers as options for demonstrating interest. While we appreciate the list of options, we urge the admissions team to make more explicit how participation in these activities are being counted toward prospective students’ applications. How much is demonstrated interest considered? Does the type matter? Is in-person interest weighted more than virtual engagement? Is demonstrating interest once enough, or does the frequency matter too? Making this information available will clarify this new policy for applicants and level the playing field for students who might not have the means to visit or engage with WashU in person.

The implementation of Early Action (EA) rounds as an application option is a great step in opening up access to students who need to consider financial packages from multiple universities before committing. It is commonly misunderstood that Early Decision acceptances are legally binding, but the truth is that if the university doesn’t offer enough aid for the student to be able to attend or personal circumstances change, they don’t have to go. Yes, in rare cases there have been consequences, but it is generally uncommon for penalties to be applied. Having EA as an option and providing information about it reduces confusion around application stipulations. The same should be done for demonstrated interest.

The editorial board of Student Life urges WashU Admissions to offer more detailed information about demonstrated interest for prospective students. The board appreciates the other simultaneous changes and wishes to see the continual implementation of equitable admissions policies.

Kate Theerman Rodriguez | Forum Editor

River Alsalihi | Forum Editor

Hannah Much | Managing Sports Editor

Mac Motz | Photo Editor

Laurel Wang | Editor-in-Chief

Lyn Wilkins | Forum Editor

Leilani Billups | Forum Editor

Hannah La Porte | Managing Scene Editor

Anna Crook | Sports Editor

Lucia Thomas | Managing Illustration Editor

Ben Ollendorff | Sports Editor

Alan Knight | Managing Multimedia Editor

Maddie Morgan | Forum Editor

Apurva Ganti | Training and Recruitment Editor