Letter of intent and update letters are powerful tools — when used correctly. They can demonstrate enthusiasm, clarify achievements, strengthen your narrative, and remind admissions committees that you’re still an active, engaged candidate.

Used incorrectly? They become generic, ineffective, and sometimes even damaging.

Here’s how to send a strong update or letter of intent that actually moves the needle — and exactly when to send it.

Letter of Intent vs. Update Letter: The Difference

Letter of Intent

A letter of intent states clearly:

• “If accepted, I will attend your school.”

This is a commitment. You should only send one — and only when you mean it.

Update Letter

An update letter shares new achievements, growth, or additional context.
Typical updates include:

• New grades
• New publications or presentations
• New clinical or volunteer experiences
• New leadership positions
• Awards or honors

Update letters can be sent to multiple schools.

What Makes a Strong Update Letter

1. Substance Over Noise

Updates should be meaningful. Admissions committees can tell when you’re stretching.

Strong updates include:

• Increased responsibilities
• New quantitative achievements
• Clinical involvement
• Research milestones
• Growth-oriented reflections

Weak updates include:

• “I’m still volunteering at the hospital.”
• “I continue shadowing.”
• “No major updates, but I remain interested.”

If you have no meaningful update, it's better not to send one.

2. Use the “3-Part Update Formula”

Part 1 — A brief context statement

1–2 sentences on your continued interest.

Part 2 — Tangible updates (2–4 bullets or short paragraphs)

Be specific:
✔ Hours completed
✔ Responsibilities taken on
✔ Skills developed
✔ Achievements attained

Part 3 — Reflection + Alignment

Connect your growth to their program:

• “This experience strengthens my desire to train in a curriculum that values…”
• “Your school’s emphasis on community health ties directly into…”

Reflection is what makes your update memorable.

What Makes a Strong Letter of Intent

1. Explicit, Unambiguous Commitment

State clearly:
✔ “If accepted, I will attend.”

Not:
❌ “You are my top choice.”
❌ “I strongly prefer your school.”
❌ “I would love the opportunity.”

Clarity matters.

2. Show That You Understand Their Program Deeply

Strong letters reference:

• Curriculum structure
• Community partnerships
• Student organizations
• Track systems
• Research infrastructure
• Mission-driven components

This shows genuine fit.

3. Include a Values-Based Reflection

Admissions committees want to know:

• Why them
• Why you
• Why this match is authentic

Share how their values align with your motivations, not just their features.

4. Keep It Concise

Ideal length:

• ¾ page to one full page
• No walls of text
• Deep, not long

When to Send Letters

Update Letters

Send when you have:

• Significant new information
• A completed project
• New grades
• New clinical involvement
• A publication or poster
• A major achievement

Timing:
✔ Immediately after the update occurs
✔ Before or during interview season
✔ After an interview (if new information emerges)

Letter of Intent

Send when:
✔ You have interviewed
✔ You are on the waitlist OR waiting post-interview
✔ You have decided this is your top and only committed choice
✔ You understand the binding implication

Never send a letter of intent pre-interview.

Update letters and letters of intent can strengthen your application — when sent intentionally. Focus on clarity, substance, and true program alignment. A strong letter reminds committees that you’re growing, committed, and ready to excel in their program.

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