I was wondering what the best ways to let colleges know that you have a high level of interest is without making a campus visit. I think its an important question considering how expensive it can get. In my case specifically, even though I love some CA universities it would cost a couple grand in flights and hotels just to get to the one’s that I like.
Apply
Check the Common Data Set for each school to see if interest is even a thing they consider. For example, the UC schools generally do not consider interest.
More detailed instructions for @Ynotgo 's good advice:
Google “Common Data Set <>”
Look at the table in section C7
“Relative importance of each of the following academic and nonacademic factors in first-time, first-year, degree-seeking (freshman) admission decisions.”
Many schools simply don’t care if you’re interested. They care that you’re qualified.
Ways to show interest without visiting:
Schedule an off campus interview.
Email the Admissions office & ask if a rep might be coming to your school or city. Then make every effort to attend the event or meet with the rep. Have a couple of questions ready & be ready to tell why you’re interested in College X.
Go to a school’s website and find & fill out the online form for more information.
Apply Early Admission.
If there are any optional essays, write them.
Sign up for the mailing list.
Do a virtual tour.
apply ED (biggest show of interest)