2022-2023 Essay PromptsCommon Application Essays Show Common Application Essays
Coalition Application Essays Coalition Application Essays
American University American University Essay Prompt Assumption University Assumption University Essay Prompt Babson College Babson College Essay Prompt We invite you to submit your answer in either essay OR video format. If you choose to submit a video, please limit your response to a 1-minute video, which can be submitted via a shared link to YouTube or another video hosting website. Barnard College Barnard College Essay Prompt 2. At Barnard, academic inquiry starts with bold questions. What are some of the bold questions you have pondered that get you excited and why do they interest you? Tell us how you would explore these questions at Barnard. (300 words max.) 3. (Optional) Pick one woman — a historical figure, fictitious character, or modern individual — to converse with for an hour and explain your choice. Why does this person intrigue you? What would you talk about? What questions would you ask them? (300 words max.) 4. Use this space to share anything with the Admissions Committee that you feel provides additional context related to your background, experiences or identity. (300 words max.) Bentley University Bentley University Essay Prompt Boston College Boston College Essay Prompts All applicants, except those applying for the Human-Centered Engineering (HCE) major, should respond to one of prompts #1-5 listed below. Students applying to the HCE major must respond to prompt #6 only. The writing supplement topics for the 2022-2023 application cycle (400 word limit): 1. Students at Boston College are encouraged to consider critical questions as they pursue lives of meaning and purpose. What is a question that matters to you and how do you hope Boston College will help you answer it? 2. In 2020, we faced a national reckoning on racial injustice in America – a reckoning that continues today. Discuss how this has affected you, what you have learned, or how you have been inspired to be a change agent around this important issue. 3. At Boston College, we hope to draw on the Jesuit tradition of finding conversation partners to discuss issues and problems facing society. Who is your favorite conversation partner? What do you discuss with that person? 4. Socrates stated that “the unexamined life is not worth living.” Discuss a time when reflection, prayer, or introspection led to clarity or understanding of an issue that is important to you. 5. Each year at University Convocation, the incoming class engages in reflective dialogue around a common text. What book would you recommend for your class to read and explore together – and why? 6. For Human-Centered Engineering major applicants only: One goal of a Jesuit education is to prepare students to serve the Common Good. Human-Centered Engineering at Boston College integrates technical knowledge, creativity, and a humanistic perspective to address societal challenges and opportunities. What societal problems are important to you and how will you use your HCE education to solve them? Boston University Boston University Essay Prompt Bowdoin University Bowdoin University Essay Prompt To be at home in all lands and all ages; Which line from The Offer resonates most with you? Optional: The Offer represents Bowdoin’s values. Please reflect on the line you selected and how it has meaning to you. Brandeis University Brandeis University Essay Prompt For International Students Only Brown University Brown University Essay Prompt 2. Brown’s culture fosters a community in which students challenge the ideas of others and have their ideas challenged in return, promoting a deeper and clearer understanding of the complex issues confronting society. This active engagement in dialogue is as present outside the classroom as it is in academic spaces. Tell us about a time you were challenged by a perspective that differed from your own. How did you respond? (200-250 words) 3. Brown students care deeply about their work and the world around them. Students find contentment, satisfaction, and meaning in daily interactions and major discoveries. Whether big or small, mundane or spectacular, tell us about something that brings you joy. (200-250 words) Essay Questions for PLME Applicants 1. Committing to a future career as a physician while in high school requires careful consideration and self-reflection. How do you feel your personal background provides you with a unique perspective of medicine? (250 word limit) 2. Health care is constantly changing, as it is affected by racial and social disparities, economics, politics, and technology, among others. How will you, as a future physician, make a positive impact? (250 word limit) 3. How do you envision the Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) helping you to meet your academic, personal and professional goals as a person and as a physician of the future? (250 word limit) Essay Questions for Brown|RISD Dual Degree Applicants The Brown|RISD Dual Degree Program draws on the complementary strengths of Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) to provide students with the opportunity to explore diverse spheres of academic and creative inquiry, culminating in a capstone project that interrelates the content, approaches, and methods from two distinct learning experiences. Based on your understanding of the academic programs at Brown and RISD and the possibilities created by the BRDD program’s broadened learning community, specifically describe how and why the BRDD program would constitute an optimal undergraduate education for you. As part of your answer, be sure to articulate how you might contribute to the Dual Degree community and its commitment to interdisciplinary work. (650 word limit) Chapman University Chapman University Essay Prompt Chapman University seeks to enroll students who bring a rich array of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds to our campus community. We are committed to creating a welcoming university where all of our students can fully participate, reach their fullest potential, and benefit from living, learning, and socializing with people different from themselves. With this in mind, please answer one of the following questions (200 words or fewer). CHOICE A: PERSONAL VALUES CHOICE B: PERSONAL GROWTH Please answer the following questions in one word, phrase, or sentence. There are no right or wrong answers here. We hope you enjoy working on this section as much as we’ll enjoy reading it. 1. What is your dream job? Colgate University
Colgate University Essay Prompts On Colgate’s campus, students engage with individuals from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds, races, ethnicities, religions, and perspectives during the course of their educational and social experiences. In 200-250 words, please share the benefits you see in engaging with a diverse body of students, faculty, and staff as part of your Colgate experience. Question 2: Colgate students immerse themselves in social and intellectual pursuits that inspire them. Tell us in 200-250 words what inspires you and why you want to pursue that at Colgate. Question 3: Please complete the following so we can learn a bit more about you. Each response should be no more than 13 words. – I am fascinated by… College of Wooster College of Wooster Essay Prompt Columbia University Columbia University Essay Prompts 2. We’re interested in learning about some of the ways that you explore your interests. List some resources and outlets that you enjoy, including but not limited to websites, publications, journals, podcasts, social media accounts, lectures, museums, movies, music, or other content with which you regularly engage. (125 words or fewer) 3. A hallmark of the Columbia experience is being able to learn and thrive in an equitable and inclusive community with a wide range of perspectives. Tell us about an aspect of your own perspective, viewpoint or lived experience that is important to you, and describe how it has shaped the way you would learn from and contribute to Columbia’s diverse and collaborative community. (200 words or fewer) 4. Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia. (200 words or fewer) 5. In Columbia’s admissions process, we value who you are as a unique individual, distinct from your goals and achievements. In the last words of this writing supplement, we would like you to reflect on a source of happiness. Help us get to know you further by describing the first thing that comes to mind when you consider what simply brings you joy. (35 words or fewer) Other For applicants to Columbia College, please tell us what from your current and past experiences (either academic or personal) attracts you specifically to the areas of study that you previously noted in the application. (200 words or fewer) For applicants to Columbia Engineering, please tell us what from your current and past experiences (either academic or personal) attracts you specifically to the areas of study that you previously noted in the application. (200 words or fewer) Cornell University Cornell University Essay Prompts In the online Common Application Writing Supplement, please respond to the essay question below (maximum of 650 words) that corresponds to the undergraduate college or school to which you are applying. College Interest Essays for Fall 2023 First-Year Applicants Brooks School of Public Policy College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Optional: At Cornell CALS, we aim to leave the world better than we found it, so we seek out those who are not simply driven to master their discipline, but who are also passionate about doing so to serve the public good. Please elaborate on an activity or experience you have had that made an impact on a community that is important to you. We encourage you to think about community broadly – this could include family, school, or local and global communities (300-word limit). Optional: The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is dedicated to the exploration of the agricultural, life, environmental, and social sciences and welcomes students with interests that span a wide variety of disciplines. Given our agricultural history and commitment to educating the next generation of agriculturalists, please share if you have a background in agriculture or are interested in pursuing a career in agriculture. Select all that apply: – My family owns or operates a farm College of Architecture, Art, and Planning College of Arts and Sciences Cornell SC Johnson College of Business College of Engineering Essay 1 How do your interests directly connect with Cornell Engineering? If you have an intended major, what draws you to that department at Cornell Engineering? If you are unsure what specific engineering field you would like to study, describe how your general interest in engineering most directly connects with Cornell Engineering. It may be helpful to concentrate on one or two things that you are most excited about. Essay 2 > Question A: Describe an engineering problem that impacts your local community. This could be your school, neighborhood, town, region, or a group you identify with. Describe one to three things you might do as an engineer to solve the problem. > Question B: Diversity in all forms is intrinsic to excellence in engineering. Engineering the best solutions to complex problems is often achieved by drawing from the diverse ingenuity of people from different backgrounds, lived experiences, and identities. How do you see yourself contributing to the diversity and/or the inclusion of the Cornell Engineering community? What is the unique voice you would bring to the Cornell Engineering community? College of Human Ecology School of Industrial and Labor Relations Dartmouth College Dartmouth College Essay Prompts 1. Required of all applicants. Please respond in 100 words or fewer: Dartmouth celebrates the ways in which its profound sense of place informs its profound sense of purpose. As you seek admission to Dartmouth’s Class of 2027, what aspects of the College’s academic program, community, or campus environment attract your interest? In short, Why Dartmouth? Please respond in 100 words or fewer. 2. Required of all applicants. Please respond in 200-250 words: “Be yourself,” Oscar Wilde advised. “Everyone else is taken.” Introduce yourself in 200-250 words. 3. Required of all applicants. Please choose one of the following prompts and respond in 200-250 words: A. Labor leader and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta recommended a life of purpose. “We must use our lives to make the world a better place to live, not just to acquire things,” she said. “That is what we are put on the earth for.” In what ways do you hope to make—or are you making—an impact? B. What excites you? C. In The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, William Kamkwamba ’14 reflects on constructing a windmill from recycled materials to power electrical appliances in his family’s Malawian house: “If you want to make it, all you have to do is try.” What drives you to create and what do you hope to make or have you made? D. Dr. Seuss, aka Theodor Geisel of Dartmouth’s Class of 1925, wrote, “Think and wonder. Wonder and think.” What do you wonder and think about? E. “Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced,” wrote James Baldwin. How does this quote apply to your life experiences? Davidson College Davidson College Essay Prompts 2. Davidson encourages students to explore curiosities in and out of the classroom. What is a topic, activity or idea that excites you? Tell us why. Examples may include hobbies, books, interactions, music, podcasts, movies, etc. (250-300 words) Duke University Duke University Essay Prompts We want to emphasize that the following questions are optional. Feel free to answer them if you believe that doing so will add something meaningful that is not already shared elsewhere in your application. Four optional questions are available – a maximum of 2 can be selected. (250 word limit per essay) 1. We seek a diverse student body that embodies the wide range of human experience. In that context, we are interested in what you’d like to share about your lived experiences and how they’ve influenced how you think of yourself. 2. We believe there is benefit in sharing and sometimes questioning our beliefs or values; who do you agree with on the big important things, or who do you have your most interesting disagreements with? What are you agreeing or disagreeing about? 3. What has been your best academic experience in the last two years, and what made it so good? 4. Duke’s commitment to diversity and inclusion includes sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. If you’d like to share with us more about your identity in this context, feel free to do so here. Elon University Elon University Essay Prompts Answers to these questions are meant to be brief – 3 sentences or less. Be inventive and thoughtful. Most importantly, be yourself. This is a chance to tell us more about who you really are in a fun, concise manner. We’re excited to get to know you! Name three songs from your perfect playlist. We’re in your hometown. Where should we go and what should we do? What three emojis/GIFs do you use most often? Why? You are a superhero. What are your powers? Tell us your top 5. Explain why these are your top 5: (250 words max.) Emmanuel College Emmanuel
College Essay Prompt Emory University Emory University Essay Prompts – What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college? Getting to Know
You – Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness. – When was the last time you questioned something you had thought to be true? – If you could witness a historic event (past, present or future) first-hand, what would it be, and why? – Share about a time when you were awestruck. – Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why? Fordham University Fordham University Essay Prompt At Fordham, we expect students to care for and engage with their communities. Please share a specific instance in which you challenged yourself or stepped out of your comfort zone in order to be an advocate for your community (for example, your family, friend group, high school, or town). Please provide an example that illustrates a facet of yourself that we would not find anywhere else in your application. (150 words max.) George Mason University George Mason University Essay Prompts Georgetown University Georgetown University Essay Prompts Short Essay Longer Essays Essay One Essay
Two APPLICANTS TO THE SCHOOL OF HEALTH: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. Please specifically address your intended major (Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, or Human Science). APPLICANTS TO THE SCHOOL OF NURSING: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. Please specifically address your intended major Nursing. APPLICANTS TO THE WALSH SCHOOL OF FOREIGN SERVICE: The Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. What is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world? APPLICANTS TO THE MCDONOUGH SCHOOL OF BUSINESS: The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivations for studying business at Georgetown. Other Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia
Tech Short-Answer Question Gonzaga University Gonzaga University Essay Prompt 2. Please share an experience you have had outside of the classroom that has contributed to your personal growth. (no length, but “shorter” than 650 common app) Harvard University Harvard University Essay Prompts Harvey Mudd College Harvey Mudd College Essay Prompt 1. “Scientific research is a human endeavor. The choices of topics that we research are based on our biases, our beliefs, and what we bring: our cultures and our families. The kinds of problems that people put their talents to solving depends on their values.” – Dr. Clifton Poodry How has your own background influenced the types of problems you want to solve, the people you want to work with, and the impact you hope your work can have? (500 words max.) 2. Many students choose Harvey Mudd because they don’t want to give up their interests in the Humanities, Social Sciences and the Arts – or HSA as we call it at HMC. Briefly (in 100 words or less) describe what you’d like to learn about in your dream HSA class. Optional: You may include examples of mathematical or scientific endeavors or research abstracts if relevant. Please limit your submission to two pages. High Point University High Point University Essay Prompts 2. Describe any meaningful travel experiences (both national and international). (50 Word Limit) Indiana University Indiana University Essay Prompt Johns Hopkins University Johns Hopkins University Essay Prompt Use this space to share something you’d like the admissions committee to know about you (your interests, your background, your identity, or your community), and how it has shaped what you want to get out of your college experience at Hopkins. (300-400 words) Lafayette College Lafayette College Essay Prompt Why Lafayette? (20-200 words) Lehigh University Lehigh University Essay Prompts 2. A compelling characteristic of Lehigh’s community is that our students want to be actively engaged in their learning, their community, and the world. Our students look to make a difference and have a real-world impact. We expect our community to challenge your viewpoint, your naturalized assumptions, and the way that you see the world around you. Lehigh University is committed to being an anti-racist institution. By this, we mean actively speaking out and addressing acts of racism, racist comments, racist practices, policies, and procedures. What would you want to be different in your own country or community to further principles of equality, equity, or social justice? (300-word limit) Loyola Marymount University Loyola Marymount University Essay Prompt As part of our holistic review process, it is critical that we understand the comprehensive experience of all applicants. Please provide a detailed explanation, in 250 words or less, regarding any break or interruption in your academic history throughout high school (secondary school) and beyond. Lynn University Lynn University Essay Prompt Massachusetts Institute of Technology MIT Essay Prompts For the 2022–2023 application, we’re asking these short answer essay questions:
We’re looking for responses of approximately 200 words each. There is also one final, open-ended, additional-information text box where you can tell us anything else you think we really ought to know. New York University New York University Essay Prompt We would like to better understand how your experiences would help us to shape and grow our diverse community. Please respond in 250 words or less. North Carolina State University North Carolina State University Essay Prompts > Explain why you selected the academic program(s) above and why you are interested in studying these at NC State. (250 words) > NC State University is committed to building a just and inclusive community, one that does not tolerate unjust or inhumane treatment, and that denounces it, clearly and loudly. Please describe what those words mean to you and how you will contribute to a more diverse and inclusive NC State environment. (250 words) Northwestern University Northwestern University Essay Prompts Occidental College Occidental College Essay Prompts 1. Why are you applying to Occidental? What are your academic interests and why do you think Occidental is the right place for you to pursue them? (150 – 200 words) 2. Please answer one of the following questions—your choice (200 – 300 words): – Briefly describe a current event or social movement that is affecting a place that is important to you. Describe its significance to you and the future implications for that community. How do you anticipate an Oxy education helping you better understand and respond to that event/movement? – Oxy’s central mission emphasizes the value of community amidst diversity. What do you value in a community and how do you see your perspectives and life experiences enhancing it? 3. What is the first song you would play for your Oxy roommate on move-in day? Penn State Penn State Essay Prompts Pomona College Pomona College Essay Prompts (1) Academic Interest Statement: What do you love about the subject(s) you selected as potential major(s)? If undecided, share more about one of your academic passions. (2) Short-Response Essay: choose to respond to one of the following three prompts in 150 words or less: – At Pomona, we celebrate and identify with the number 47. Share with us one of your quirky personal, family, or community traditions and why you hold on to it. – What item are you excited to bring with you to college? – Describe a time when you felt empowered or on top of the world? (3) Longer-Response Essay: choose to respond to one of the following three prompts in 250 words or less: – In the past few years, is there something you have changed your mind about? Why? – Reflecting on a community that you are part of, what values or perspectives from that community would you bring to Pomona? – What strength or quality do you have that most people might not see or recognize? Princeton University Princeton University Essay Prompts Briefly elaborate on an activity, organization, work experience, or hobby that has been particularly meaningful to you. (Please respond in 150 words or fewer) Your Voice Please respond to each question in 250 words or fewer. – At Princeton, we value diverse perspectives and the ability to have respectful dialogue about difficult issues. Share a time when you had a conversation with a person or a group of people about a difficult topic. What insight did you gain, and how would you incorporate that knowledge into your thinking in the future? – Princeton has a longstanding commitment to service and civic engagement. Tell us how your story intersects (or will intersect) with these ideals. More About You Please respond to each question in 50 words or fewer. There are no right or wrong answers. Be yourself! – What is a new skill you would like to learn in college? – What brings you joy? – What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment? Providence College Providence College Essay
Prompts 1. As a liberal arts school, Provide College provides students with the opportunity to explore several different academic areas. While you may not be ready to declare a major, what have you experienced, inside or outside of the classroom, that has led you to an interest in a particular field of study? 2. Dialogue, Inclusion and Democracy is a program on campus whose mission is to create a safe space that supports the development of well-informed and engaged students through civil discourse. There are several spaces on campus where students, faculty and staff can pose questions to the PC community and dialogue forms from there. One of the questions posted recently was “Name a time where you’ve felt empowered or represented by an educator.” What question would you like to post to the PC community and why? 3. If you could have a theme song, what would it be and why? Purdue University Purdue University Essay Prompt 2. How will opportunities at Purdue support your interests, both in and out of the classroom? (Respond in 100 words or fewer.) 3. Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected. (Respond in 100 words or fewer.) Rice University Rice University Essay Prompts 1. Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 words max.) 2. Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? (150 words max.) Rollins College Rollins College Essay Prompt Sarah Lawrence College Sarah Lawrence College Essay Prompts – Sarah Lawrence students are often described as hyphenates: director-playwright-sound designer, environmentalist-photographer, journalist-linguist, economist-poet. In 250-500 words, tell us about seemingly disparate interests you’ve brought together, or hope to bring together at Sarah Lawrence. – Students at Sarah Lawrence are asked to design their own research questions and answer them during semester-long projects. In 250-500 words, thoughtfully respond to a prompt of your own creation. – Sarah Lawrence College’s community places strong value in inclusion and diversity. In 250-500 words, tell us about what you value in a community and how your perspective, lived experiences, or beliefs might contribute to your College community. – In her 2019 commencement address, journalist Maggie Haberman ’96 told the graduating class: “My time at Sarah Lawrence helped me understand the importance of patience, of assuming good faith in others, and of finding truth.” In 250-500 words, tell us about a time you spoke your own truth or found the importance in one of the values Maggie describes. Southern Methodist University Southern Methodist University Essay Prompts 2. SMU is a diverse learning environment shaped by the convergence of ideas and cultures. How will your unique experiences or background enhance the University, and how will you benefit from this community? (250-word limit) St. John's College St. John’s College Essay Prompt Stanford University Stanford University Essay Prompts 2. How did you spend your last two summers? (50 words max.) 3. What historical moment or event do you wish you could have witnessed? (50 words max.) 4. Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities, a job you hold, or responsibilities you have for your family. (50 words max.) 5. Name one thing you are looking forward to experiencing at Stanford. (50 words max.) Short Essays 2. Virtually all of Stanford’s undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate – and us – get to know you better. (250 words max.) 3. Tell us about something that is meaningful to you and why. (250 words max.) Stetson University Stetson University Essay Prompt – Submit a graded writing sample – If you could live your life fighting for one cause, what would it be and why? – Describe a time you did not meet expectations and what impact the experience had on you. – What gives meaning to your life? – If you wrote a letter to yourself to be opened in 20 years, what would it say? – Discuss an issue of state, national, or global concern to you. – Why write? Syracuse University Syracuse University Essay Prompt The George Washington University The George Washington University Essay Prompts Every applicant can choose from one of the following two essay prompts to submit. (500 words or fewer) Essay Prompt 1 Essay Prompt 2 Tufts University Tufts University Essay Prompts 1. Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short, “Why Tufts?” (100-150 words) 2. Now we’d like to know a little more about you. Please respond to one of the following three questions. (200-250 words): A) It’s cool to love learning. What excites your intellectual curiosity? B) How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today? C) Where are you on your journey of engaging with or fighting for social justice? Applicants to the BFA or 5-Year BFA+BA/BS Combined Degree at the SMFA at Tufts answer the following two questions: 1. Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? Why SMFA at Tufts? (100-150 words) 2. Art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. What are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work? (200-250 words) Tulane University Tulane
University Essay Prompts 2. Tulane values the lessons gained from pursuing an education
alongside a student body that represents a wide range of experiences and perspectives and is reflective of our multicultural world. If you would like to share a perspective related to your family, cultural group, sexual or gender identity, religious group, or some other aspect that has shaped your identity, please do so here. Other: If you would like to elaborate on one of your activities, you may do so briefly here. Max 250. University of California University of California Personal Insight Questions Keep in mind Questions and guidance 1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. Things to consider: A leadership role can mean more than just a title. It can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or taking the lead role in organizing an event or project. Think about what you accomplished and what you learned from the experience. What were your responsibilities? Did you lead a team? How did your experience change your perspective on leading others? Did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, church, in your community or an organization? And your leadership role doesn’t necessarily have to be limited to school activities. For example, do you help out or take care of your family? 2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side. Things to consider: What does creativity mean to you? Do you have a creative skill that is important to you? What have you been able to do with that skill? If you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution? What are the steps you took to solve the problem? How does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom? Does your creativity relate to your major or a future career? 3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? Things to consider: If there’s a talent or skill that you’re proud of, this is the time to share it. You don’t necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about it, feel free to do so). Why is this talent or skill meaningful to you? Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule? 4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. Things to consider: An educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. For example, participation in an honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that’s geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you — just to name a few. If you choose to write about educational barriers you’ve faced, how did you overcome or strive to overcome them? What personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge? How did overcoming this barrier help shape who you are today? 5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? Things to consider: A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone? If you’re currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, “How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends or with my family?” 6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. Things to consider: Many students have a passion for one specific academic subject area, something that they just can’t get enough of. If that applies to you, what have you done to further that interest? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had inside and outside the classroom — such as volunteer work, internships, employment, summer programs, participation in student organizations and/or clubs — and what you have gained from your involvement. Has your interest in the subject influenced you in choosing a major and/or future career? Have you been able to pursue coursework at a higher level in this subject (honors, AP, IB, college or university work)? Are you inspired to pursue this subject further at UC, and how might you do that? 7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? Things to consider: Think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place — like your high school, hometown or home. You can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. Was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community? Why were you inspired to act? What did you learn from your effort? How did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both? Did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community? 8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? Things to consider: If there’s anything you want us to know about you, but didn’t find a question or place in the application to tell us, now’s your chance. What have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better? From your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for UC? Don’t be afraid to brag a little. University of Central Florida University of Central Florida Essay Prompt 2. Discuss your reasons for pursuing the academic program (major) selected above. (250 words max.) University of Chicago University of Chicago Essay Prompts How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago. Question 2: Extended Essay (Required; Choose one) Essay Option 1 Was it a cat I saw? Yo-no-na-ka, ho-ka-ho-ka na-no-yo (Japanese for “the world is a warm place”). Może jutro ta dama da tortu jeżom (Polish for “maybe tomorrow that lady will give a cake to the hedgehogs”). Share a palindrome in any language, and give it a backstory. Essay Option 2 What advice would a wisdom tooth
have? Essay Option 3 You are on an expedition to found a colony on Mars, when from a nearby crater, a group of Martians suddenly emerges. They seem eager to communicate, but they’re the impatient kind and demand you represent the human race in one song, image, memory, proof, or other idea. What do you share with them to show that humanity is worth their time? Essay Option 4 UChicago has been affiliated with over 90 Nobel laureates. But, why should economics, physics, and peace get all the glory? You are tasked with creating a new category for the Nobel Prize. Explain what it would be, why you chose your specific category, and the criteria necessary to achieve this accomplishment. Essay Option 5 Genghis Khan with an F1
racecar. George Washington with a SuperSoaker. Emperor Nero with a toaster. Leonardo da Vinci with a Furby. If you could give any historical figure any piece of technology, who and what would it be, and why do you think they’d work so well together? Essay Option 6 And, as always… the classic choose your own adventure option! In the spirit of adventurous inquiry, choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun! University of Colorado Boulder University of Colorado Boulder Essay Prompts Required Short Answer #2 (250 word limit) – Please share a bit more about your academic interests. What do you hope to study at CU Boulder? What has inspired your interests in this area? Or if you are undecided, what area(s) of study are you considering? Think about your prior/current coursework, extracurricular activities, work/volunteer experiences, future goals, or anything else that has shaped your interests. University of Florida University of Florida Essay Prompts – Have you participated in or been assisted in your college preparation and search by programs outside of classroom, such as Educational Talent Search, Take Stock in Children, Upward Bound, Boys and Girls Club, etc.? If yes, please provide the name of the program, details/benefits of your involvement, and how long your experiences continued. (250 word limit) – Please provide more details on your most meaningful commitment outside of the classroom while in high school and explain why it was meaningful. This could be related to an extracurricular activity, work, volunteering, an academic activity, family responsibility, or any other non-classroom activity. (250 word limit) – Is there any other information or extenuating circumstances the Admission Committee should know when reviewing your application? (250 word limit) University of Florida Honors Program University of Georgia University of Georgia Essay Prompt University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign University of Illinois Essay Prompt If You’re Applying to a Major: If You’re Applying to Our Undeclared Program in the Division of General Studies: If You’ve Selected a Second-Choice Major (Including Undeclared): University of Maryland University of Maryland Essay Prompt 1. If I could travel anywhere, I would go to… 2. The most interesting fact I ever learned from research was… 3. In addition to my major, my academic interests include… 4. My favorite thing about last Wednesday was… 5. When I think of diversity, I think of… University of Massachusetts Amherst University of Massachusetts Amherst Essay Prompt University of Miami University of Miami Essay Prompt The University of Miami’s official mascot is the ibis. Folklore maintains that the native marsh bird is the last to take shelter before a hurricane hits and the first to emerge once the storm passes, making it an apt symbol of courage and resilience. Considering your ability to control your own motivation and behavior, how have past experiences helped build your courage and resilience to persist in the face of academic and life challenges so that, once these storms pass, you can emerge in continued pursuit of your goals? University of Michigan University of Michigan Essay Prompts 2. Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (Required for all applicants; 550 word limit) University of North Carolina University of North Carolina Essay Prompt Short answer prompts You’ll choose two of the following prompts to respond to in 200-250
words: 2. Describe an aspect of your identity (for example, your religion, culture, race, sexual or gender identity, affinity group, etc.). How has this aspect of your identity shaped your life experiences thus far? 3. If you could change one thing to better your community, what would it be? Why is it important and how would you contribute to this change? 4. Former UNC-Chapel Hill employee, community service member, and civil rights activist Esphur Foster once said, “We are nothing without our history.” Her words are memorialized on the Northside Neighborhood Freedom Fighters monument. How does history shape who you are? Fill-in-the-blank responses You’ll complete all of the following fill-in-the-blank responses in 25 words each: 1. One family, friend, or school tradition I cherish: 2. If I had an extra hour in every day, I would spend it: 3. If I could travel anywhere, near or far, past, present or future, I would go: 4. The last time I stepped outside my comfort zone, I: 5. People who meet me are most likely to notice, and least likely to notice: University of Notre Dame University of Notre Dame Essay Prompts Please provide a response to the following question: Notre Dame is a Catholic university, founded by members of the Congregation of Holy Cross, with a mission to educate the hearts and minds of students. What excites you about attending Notre Dame? Please provide a response to ONE (1) of the following questions: 1. People in the Notre Dame community come from many different places, backgrounds, and walks of life. How is where you’re from a part of who you are? 2. Tell us about a time when you advocated for something you believe in. 3. If you were given unlimited resources to help solve one problem in your community, what would it be and how would you accomplish it? 4. What is the greatest compliment you have ever been given? Why was it meaningful to you? University of Oregon University of Oregon Essay Prompt Optional essay University of Pennsylvania University of Pennsylvania Essay Prompts 2. How will you explore community at Penn? Consider how Penn will help shape your perspective and identity, and how your identity and perspective will help shape Penn. (150-200 words) For students applying to the coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer these questions in regard to your single-degree school choice; your interest in the coordinated dual-degree or specialized program may be addressed through the program-specific essay. Considering the specific undergraduate school you have selected, describe how you intend to explore your academic and intellectual interests at the University of Pennsylvania. (150-200 words) University of Richmond University of Richmond Essay Prompt 1. Tell us about the most unusual talent you have, and how you have made it useful. 2. Spiders are essential to the ecosystem. How are you essential to your community or will you be essential in your university community? 3. Please share one idea for actions or policies that you think would begin to address an issue of racial or social injustice. Word Limit: Minimum 350. Maximum 650 words. University of Rochester University of Rochester Essay Prompt The University of Rochester motto of Meliora – or “ever better” – deeply integrates critical core values into all that we do. These core values of equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect and accountability define not only who we are, but also who we hope to become. Please use the space below to highlight a time, creative idea or research experience when you put into action one or more of these characteristics in order to make yourself, your community or the world ever better. (250 words or less) You may answer one of three ways: Prompt 1 Essay Response Option: Write an analytical or creative response of 200 words or less. Prompt 1 Creative Response Option: Upload up to three works of your own art (e.g. pictures, video, performances, literary) and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the art is tied to making the world, your community, and those around you “ever better.” Prompt 1 Research Response Option: Upload an abstract describing your own related research and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the research is tied to making the world, your community and those around you “ever better.” Prompt 2 Please select one of the following prompts to respond to in 200 words or less. Prompt 2 Option A: American social reformer, abolitionist, writer and statesman Frederick Douglass said, “Some know the value of education by having it. I knew its value by not having it.” Explain ways in which education has directly influenced you and your ability to do good in the world. How will you use the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities of the University of Rochester experience to grow and to promote positive change for yourself, your community and the world? Prompt 2 Option B: Dr. Donna Strickland, University of Rochester alum and 2018 Nobel Prize winner in Physics said, “There’s no point in me being anything other than me.” The University of Rochester encourages each student to embrace who they are and create their own individual curricular path and experience. How will you use the opportunities here to fully be who you are? What unique perspectives will you bring to our community? Prompt 2 Option C: The University of Rochester benefactor, entrepreneur, photography pioneer, and philanthropist George Eastman said, “What we do during our working hours determines what we have; what we do in our leisure hours determines what we are.” Looking forward towards your college experience, what do you hope to do outside of the classroom at the University of Rochester that will enhance who you are as a person? How will specific academic and social opportunities here help you grow? Prompt 2 Option D: Susan B. Anthony, champion of abolition and women’s rights, once said “Organize, agitate, educate must be our war cry.” As you look to join our community of doers and disruptors, in what ways do you envision using both the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities to invoke change for marginalized groups? Prompt 3 Are you interested in pursuing research while enrolled at the University of Rochester? If Yes, what field/area of study are you interested in researching? (20 words) Combined Degree Program Applicants What relevant experiences or insight have led to your interest in this particular program? Describe how Rochester’s resources: facilities, faculty, peers and research will meet your academic and personal ambitions. Describe how you see yourself contributing to the challenging field you want to enter as a Rochester graduate. (500 words) University of San Diego University of San Diego Essay Prompt Mandatory First-Year Essay Prompt Essay Prompt Option #1 Essay Prompt Option #2 Essay Prompt Option #3 Mandatory Transfer Essay Prompt University of Tampa University
of Tampa Essay Prompts – What are your three favorite words in the English language? Explain what they mean to you. – Discuss your childhood neighborhood and how it shaped you as a person. – Describe how you feel about the month of February. – Imagine that you could have one superpower. What would it be and how would you use it? What would be your kryptonite? University of Texas University of Texas Essay Prompt Short Answers (250-300 words each)
University of Tennessee University of Tennessee Essay Prompt What should I include in my supporting statement? University of Vermont University of Vermont Essay Prompts 1. Why UVM? 2. Established in 1978 in a renovated gas station in Burlington, VT, Ben and Jerry’s is synonymous with the ice cream business. The company’s success and unique brand identity are due in part to their one-of-a-kind flavors. Which Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavor (real or imagined) best describes you? 3. Whether they are constructing a robot, a stronger sense of community or an identity, UVM students are builders. What would you like to build? 4. At UVM, learning extends far beyond the walls of our classrooms. From student-led organizations, to internships and study abroad experiences, UVM students are encouraged to pursue knowledge in all environments. Describe a time when you’ve learned in a non-traditional setting. 5. Communities and organizations are stronger when they value diversity of thought. How do you create meaningful connections or conversations with others when they express opinions that differ from your own? University of Virginia University of Virginia Essay Prompts College of Arts & Sciences: If you could create a college course that all UVA students would take, what would it be about and why? School of Engineering: How will you use an engineering degree to change the world for the better? School of Architecture: Describe a significant experience that deepened your interest in studying in the School of Architecture. School of Nursing: Describe a health care-related experience or another significant interaction that deepened your interest in studying Nursing. Kinesiology Program: Describe an experience that has deepened your interest in studying kinesiology. Students will then write responses to two prompts out of ten options. Answer in about 50 words each. 1. What’s your favorite word and why? University of Washington University of Washington Essay Prompts Essay prompt [required] Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it. Maximum length: 650 words Short response [required] Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the UW. Maximum length: 300 words Tip: Keep in mind that the UW strives to create a community of students richly diverse in cultural backgrounds, experiences, values and viewpoints. Additional information about yourself or your circumstances [optional] You are not required to write anything in this section, but you may include additional information if something has particular significance to you. For example, you may use this space if: – You have experienced personal hardships in attaining your education Maximum length: 200 words University of Wisconsin University of
Wisconsin Essay Prompt UW-Madison
and UW-La Crosse require an additional essay: UW-Madison Vanderbilt University Vanderbilt University Essay Prompts Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (200-400 words) Villanova University Villanova University Essay Prompts 1. St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities? 2. What is the truest thing that you know? 3. One of the themes in St. Augustine’s book, Confessions, is the idea of redemption. Tell us your story of being given a second chance. 4. In the Villanova community, we believe that we all learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others? 5. Augustine’s “Miracles are not contrary to nature but only contrary to what we know about nature.” Tell us about a societal issue that you believe the wonder of technology is well-poised to help solve. Essay #2: Why Villanova? Virginia Tech Virginia Tech Essay Prompt Please take your time to form responses that you feel confident about and help to support your application for admission. 1. Virginia Tech’s motto is “Ut Prosim” which means ‘That I May Serve’. Share how you contribute to a community that is important to you. How long have you been involved? What have you learned and how would you like to share that with others at Virginia Tech? 2. Resilience is defined as the ability to adapt and learn from a difficulty. Reflect on a time that you have exhibited resilience. What growth did you see in yourself after this experience? 3. Share a time when you were most proud of yourself either as a role model or when you displayed your leadership. What specific skills did you contribute to the experience? How did others rely on you for guidance? What did you learn about yourself during this time? 4. Describe a goal that you have set and the steps you will take to achieve it. What made you set this goal for yourself? What is your timeline to achieve this goal? Who do you seek encouragement or guidance from and how do they support your progress as you work on this goal? Wake Forest University Wake Forest University Essay Prompts – Explain how a text you’ve read – fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or literature of any kind – has helped you to understand the world’s complexity (limit: 150 words). – What piques your intellectual curiosity, and why (limit: 150 words)? – Give us your Top Ten list. (The choice of theme is yours.) (limit: 100 characters per line) – Why have you decided to apply to Wake Forest? Share with us anything that has made you interested in our institution. (limit: 150 words Washington University in St. Louis Washington University in St. Louis
Essay Prompt Wellesley College Wellesley College Essay Prompt Please limit your response to the Wellesley College essay to two well-developed paragraphs (minimum 250 words, maximum 400 words). William and Mary William
and Mary Essay Prompt Yale University Yale University Essay Prompt
2. Tell us about a topic or idea that excites you and is related to one or more academic areas you selected above. Why are you drawn to it? (200 words or fewer) 3. What is it about Yale that has led you to apply? (125 words or fewer) Applicants applying with the QuestBridge Application will complete the questions above via the Yale QuestBridge Questionnaire, available on the Yale Admissions Status Portal after an application has been received. Applicants submitting the Coalition Application or Common Application will also respond to the following short answer questions, in no more than 200 characters (approximately 35 words): 2. Yale’s residential colleges regularly host conversations with guests representing a wide range of experiences and accomplishments. What person, past or present, would you invite to speak? What would you ask them to discuss? 3. You are teaching a new Yale course. What is it called? 4. What is something about you that is not included anywhere else in your application? 2021-2022 Essay PromptsCommon Application Essays Common Application Essays
Coalition Application Essays Coalition Application Essays
American University American University Essay Prompt Why are you interested in American University? (150 words max.) Assumption University Assumption University Essay
Prompt Babson College Babson College Essay Prompt Your moment has arrived. Share with us the moments or experiences that have led you to apply to Babson College. You are invited to respond to the writing supplement with either a traditional essay (500 words maximum) OR a one-minute video. Whichever you choose, no preference is given to either format in admission decisions. Barnard College Barnard College Essay Prompt – At Barnard, academic inquiry starts with bold questions. What are some of the bold questions you have pondered that get you excited and why do they interest you? Tell us how you would explore these questions at Barnard. (Max 300 words) – (Optional) Pick one woman — a historical figure, fictitious character, or modern individual — to converse with for an hour and explain your choice. Why does this person intrigue you? What would you talk about? What questions would you ask them? (Max 300 words) Applicants who wish to take a gap year and defer their enrollment to Fall 2023: In the box below, please indicate if you are considering a deferral to Fall 2023 if you are offered admission for Fall 2022. Please note that admitted students will be required to submit a deferral request form with a detailed outline of their plans by February 2022 for students admitted through Early Decision and by April 2022 for students admitted through
Regular Decision. (Max 250 words) Bentley College Bentley College Essay Prompt We invite you to share any additional information about why you would like to attend Bentley. (250 words or fewer) Boston College Boston College Essay Prompt All applicants, except those applying for the Human-Centered Engineering (HCE) major, should respond to one of prompts #1-5 listed below. Students applying to the HCE major must respond to prompt #6 only. The writing supplement topics for the 2021-2022 application cycle (400 word limit):
Boston University Boston University Essay Prompt What about being a student at Boston University most excites you? (250 words) Brandeis University Brandeis University Essay Prompt The Brandeis community is a diverse group of critical thinkers defined by their ability to dive deeper into their learning by questioning, analyzing, evaluating, creating, critiquing and seeking other perspectives. Share an example of how you have used your own critical thinking skills on a specific subject, project, idea or interest. (250 words max.) Brown University Brown University Essay Prompt Essays questions for first year applicants:
Three essays are required for applicants to the Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME):
One essay is required for applicants to the Brown|RISD Dual Degree Program:
Chapman University Chapman University Essay Prompt
Columbia University Columbia University Essay Prompt 1. List the titles of the required readings from academic courses that you enjoyed most during secondary/high school. (75 words or fewer) 2. List the titles of the books, essays, poetry, short stories or plays you read outside of academic courses that you enjoyed most during secondary/high school. (75 words or fewer) 3. We’re interested in learning about some of the ways that you explore your interests. List some resources and outlets that you enjoy, including but not limited to websites, publications, journals, podcasts, social media accounts, lectures, museums, movies, music, or other content with which you regularly engage. (125 words or fewer) 4. A hallmark of the Columbia experience is being able to learn and live in a community with a wide range of perspectives. How do you or would you learn from and contribute to diverse, collaborative communities? (200 words or fewer) 5. Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia. (200 words or fewer) Cornell University Cornell University Essay Prompt Students in Arts and Sciences embrace the opportunity to delve into multifaceted academic interests, embodying in 21st century terms Ezra Cornell’s “any person…any study” founding vision. Tell us about the areas of study you are excited to explore, and specifically why you wish to pursue them in our College. (650 words max) Dartmouth College Dartmouth College Essay Prompt Please respond in 100 words or fewer: While arguing a Dartmouth-related case before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1818, Daniel Webster, Class of 1801, delivered this memorable line: “It is, sir,…a small college, and yet there are those who love it!” As you seek admission to the Class of 2026, what aspects of the College’s program, community, or campus environment attract your interest? Choose one of the following prompts and respond in 250-300 words:
Duke University Duke University Essay Prompt
Elon University Elon University Essay Prompt
Emmanuel College Emmanuel College Essay Prompt Emory University Emory University Essay Prompt On your application to Emory University, you’ll be asked to answer two short answer questions (SAQ’s) in addition to your Personal Statement. We encourage you to use these sections of your application to tell us more about who you are as a person. 2021-2022 Application Questions Getting to Know You (Choose 1. Required. 150 words max) Georgetown University Georgetown University Essay Prompt Please indicate any special talents or skills that you possess. Short Essay 1. Briefly (approximately one-half page, single-spaced) discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved. Long Essays Compose two essays (approximately one page, single-spaced each) on the topics given below. Essay 1 – All Applicants: As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you. Essay 2 – Applicants to Georgetown College: What does it mean to you to be educated? How might Georgetown College help you achieve this aim? (Applicants to the Sciences and Mathematics or the Faculty of Languages and Linguistics should address their chosen course of study). Essay 2- Applicants to the School of Nursing and Health Studies: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. Please specifically address your intended major (Health Care Management & Policy, Human Science, Global Health, or Nursing). Essay 2- Applicants to the Walsh School of Foreign Service: The Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. What is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world? Essay 2- Applicants to the McDonough School of Business: The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivations for studying business at Georgetown. Georgia Tech Georgia Tech Essay Prompt Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech? (max 300 words) Gonzaga University Gonzaga University Essay Prompt Please choose one of the following questions to the answer below (In 5-10 sentences):
For nursing
applicants only: As a direct admit program, Gonzaga seeks prospective nursing students who have challenged themselves with science courses, have taken math all four years of high school, and who have an understanding of the field. What experiences have led you to choose the field of nursing? Why do you believe nursing is a good career path for you? (In 5-10 sentences) Harvard University Harvard University Essay Prompt Harvard Questions You may wish to include an additional essay if you feel
that the college application forms do not provide sufficient opportunity to convey important information about yourself or your accomplishments. You may write on a topic of your choice, or you may choose from one of the following topics: Activities Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (150 words max.) High Point University High Point University Essay Prompt
Indiana University Indiana
University Essay Prompt Johns Hopkins University Johns Hopkins University Essay Prompt Founded in the spirit of exploration and discovery, Johns Hopkins University encourages students to share their perspectives, develop their interests, and pursue new experiences. Use this space to share something you’d like the admissions committee to know about you (your interests, your background, your identity, or your community), and how it has shaped what you want to get out of your college experience at Hopkins. (300-400 words) Lafayette College Lafayette College Essay Prompt Students identify Lafayette as an excellent fit for countless reasons. In your response, be deliberate and specific about your motivation for applying to Lafayette. Why Lafayette? (20-200 words) Lehigh University Lehigh University Essay Prompt
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Massachusetts Institute of Technology Essay Prompt For the 2021–2022 application, we’re asking these short answer essay questions:
New York University New York University Essay Prompt
North Carolina State University North Carolina State University
Northwestern University Northwestern University Essay Prompt ”Why Northwestern” Statement : While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community. In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond. Do you plan to complete the ”Why Northwestern” Statement? Pennsylvania State University Pennsylvania State University Essay Prompt Please tell us something about yourself, your experiences, or activities that you believe would reflect positively on your ability to succeed at Penn State. This is your opportunity to tell us something about yourself that is not already reflected in your application or academic records. We suggest a limit of 500 words or fewer. Pomona College Pomona College Essay Prompt Pomona Supplemental Essays (Required) Essay 1 – Pomona is committed to achieving the benefits of diversity for all students by creating a community that learns and grows together through the exchange of different lived experiences and perspectives. Our community is made up of students from diverse cultures, races, ethnicities, and linguistic backgrounds; political, religious and social views; physical abilities; home environments and socioeconomic backgrounds; hometowns and regions; and sexes, gender identities and sexual orientations. Both of the following prompts address this topic, and we ask you to respond to one of them. We give no preference, so choose the prompt that resonates the most with you. Choose one of the following two prompts: Option 1: We believe that everyone has something to contribute and receive from a diverse community. Why is belonging to a diverse and inclusive college community important to you? (200 words or fewer) Option 2: Advancing diversity and inclusion (D&I) can be hard work and a continuous learning process. Tell us about how you have either recently championed D&I or how you plan to maintain a deep commitment to D&I in college.(200 words or fewer) Essay 2 – According to our Board of Trustees, “Institutions such as Pomona College should prepare their graduates to lead lives of creative leadership and exemplary service.” How do you hope to use the knowledge you will gain in college to impact something greater than yourself, such as your family, neighborhood, community, city or society? (200 words or fewer) Short Response Questions (Optional) If there are aspects of your identity that you feel are not captured elsewhere in this application, please provide that information below. (50 words or less) – Before jumping into the required essays, you have the option to show us a little more of your personality. You can answer one, two, three or none of the following questions. (1-50 words each) – Marvel or DC? Pepsi or Coke? Instagram or TikTok? What’s your favorite “this or that” (you are not restricted to these three examples), and which side do you choose? – What’s your favorite way to eat a potato? – You’re relaxing on a Friday night. Suddenly, your favorite song pops into your head. What is it? Princeton University Princeton University Essay Prompt – As a research institution that also prides itself on its liberal arts curriculum, Princeton allows students to explore areas across the humanities and the arts, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. What academic areas most pique your curiosity, and how do the programs offered at Princeton suit your particular interests? (Please respond in about 250 words) – Briefly elaborate on an activity, organization, work experience, or hobby that has been particularly meaningful to you. (Please respond in about 150 words) – At Princeton, we value diverse perspectives and the ability to have respectful dialogue about difficult issues. Share a time when you had a conversation with a person or a group of people about a difficult topic. What insight did you gain, and how would you incorporate that knowledge into your thinking in the future? (350 words max) – Princeton has a longstanding commitment to service and civic engagement. Tell us how your story intersects (or will intersect) with these ideals. (350 words max) Providence College Providence College Essay Prompt
Purdue University Purdue University Essay Prompt
Rice University Rice University Essay Prompt
Rollins College Rollins College Essay Prompt Southern Methodist University Southern Methodist University Essay Prompt SMU appeals to students for a variety of reasons. Briefly describe why you are interested in attending SMU and what specific factors have led you to apply. (250-word limit) SMU is a diverse learning environment shaped by the convergence of ideas and cultures. How will your unique experiences or background enhance the University, and how will you benefit from this community? (250-word limit) Stanford University Stanford University Essay Prompt Stanford Short Essays – Virtually all of Stanford’s undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate – and us – get to know you better. (250 words max.) – Tell us about something that is meaningful to you and why. (250 words max.) – What is the most significant challenge that society faces today? – How did you spend your last two summers? – What historical moment or event do you wish you could have witnessed? – Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities, a job you hold, or responsibilities you have for your family. – Name one thing you are looking forward to experiencing at Stanford. Stetson University Stetson University Essay Prompt
Stonehill College Stonehill College Essay Prompt Students have many choices in their college search and application process. Please share why you have chosen to consider Stonehill among your possible college options. (250 word maximum) Syracuse University Syracuse University Essay Prompt The George Washington University The George Washington University Essay Prompt (Optional) Every applicant can choose from one of the following two essay prompts to submit. Essay Prompt 1 Essay Prompt 2 Tufts University Tufts University Essay Prompt There are two required short-answer questions, which vary depending on the program to which you are applying (read carefully below). Think outside the box as you answer the following questions. Take a risk and go somewhere unexpected. Be serious if the moment calls for it, but feel comfortable being playful if that suits you, too. Applicants to the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, and 5-Year Tufts/NEC Combined Degree answer the following two questions: 1. Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short, “Why Tufts?” (100-150 words) 2. Now we’d like to know a little more about you. Please respond to one of the following three questions. (200-250 words): A) It’s cool to love learning. What excites your intellectual curiosity? B) How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today? C) Where are you on your journey of engaging with or fighting for social justice? Applicants to the BFA or 5-Year BFA+BA/BS Combined Degree at the SMFA at Tufts answer the following two questions: 1. Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? Why SMFA at Tufts? (100-150 words) 2. Art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. What are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work? (200-250 words) Tulane University Tulane University Essay Prompt – Tulane values the lessons gained from pursuing an education alongside a student body that represents a wide range of experiences and perspectives and is reflective of our multicultural world. If you would like to share a perspective related to your family, cultural group, sexual or gender identity, religious group, or some other aspect that has shaped your identity, please do so here (optional). (Max 800 words) – Please
briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (optional) (250 words) University of California University of California Essay Prompt Directions
Keep In Mind
Questions and Guidance Remember, the personal insight questions are just that — personal. Which means you should use our guidance for each question just as a suggestion in case you need help. The important thing is expressing who are you, what matters to you and what you want to share with UC. 1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time. Things to consider: A leadership role can mean more than just a title. It can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or taking the lead role in organizing an event or project. Think about what you accomplished and what you learned from the experience. What were your responsibilities? Did you lead a team? How did your experience change your perspective on leading others? Did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, church, in your community or an organization? And your leadership role doesn’t necessarily have to be limited to school activities. For example, do you help out or take care of your family? 2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side. Things to consider: What does creativity mean to you? Do you have a creative skill that is important to you? What have you been able to do with that skill? If you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution? What are the steps you took to solve the problem? How does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom? Does your creativity relate to your major or a future career? 3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time? Things to consider: If there’s a talent or skill that you’re proud of, this is the time to share it. You don’t necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about it, feel free to do so). Why is this talent or skill meaningful to you? Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule? 4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced. Things to consider: An educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. For example, participation in an honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that’s geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you — just to name a few. If you choose to write about educational barriers you’ve faced, how did you overcome or strive to overcome them? What personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge? How did overcoming this barrier help shape who you are today? 5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement? Things to consider: A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone? If you’re currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, “How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends or with my family?” 6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom. Things to consider: Many students have a passion for one specific academic subject area, something that they just can’t get enough of. If that applies to you, what have you done to further that interest? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had inside and outside the classroom — such as volunteer work, internships, employment, summer programs, participation in student organizations and/or clubs — and what you have gained from your involvement. Has your interest in the subject influenced you in choosing a major and/or future career? Have you been able to pursue coursework at a higher level in this subject (honors, AP, IB, college or university work)? Are you inspired to pursue this subject further at UC, and how might you do that? 7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? Things to consider: Think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place — like your high school, hometown or home. You can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. Was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community? Why were you inspired to act? What did you learn from your effort? How did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both? Did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community? 8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California? Things to consider: If there’s anything you want us to know about you, but didn’t find a question or place in the application to tell us, now’s your chance. What have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better? From your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for UC? Don’t be afraid to brag a little. University of Central Florida University of Central Florida Essay Prompt – Why are you interested in UCF? (250 words max.) – Discuss your reasons for pursuing the academic program (major) selected above. (250 words max.) – OR- UCF Application
Questions
University of Chicago University of Chicago Essay Prompt Question 1 (Required) How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago. Question 2: Extended Essay (Required; Choose one) Essay Option 1 What if the moon were made of cheese? Or Neptune made of soap? Pick a celestial object, reimagine its material composition, and explore the implications. Feel free to explore the realms of physics, philosophy,
fantasy…the sky is the limit! Essay Option 2 What’s so easy about pie? Essay Option 3 In Homer’s Iliad, Helen had a “face that launched a thousand ships.” A millihelen, then, measures the beauty needed to launch one ship. The Sagan unit is used to denote any large quantity (in place of “billions and billions”). A New York Minute
measures the period of time between a traffic light turning green and the cab behind you honking. Invent a new unit of measurement. How is it derived? How is it used? What are its equivalents? Essay Option 4 “There is no such thing as a new idea” – Mark Twain. Are any pieces of art, literature, philosophy, or technology truly original, or just a different combination of old ideas?
Pick something, anything (besides yourself), and explain why it is, or is not, original. Essay Option 5 It’s said that history repeats itself. But what about other disciplines? Choose another field (chemistry, philosophy, etc.) and explain how it repeats itself. Explain how it repeats itself. Essay Option 6 In the spirit of adventurous inquiry (and with the encouragement of one of our current students!) choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun! University of Colorado Boulder University
of Colorado Boulder Essay Prompt
University of Florida University of Florida Essay Prompt – Do you have any employment or family obligations that limit your participation in extracurricular activities. If so, please describe. (250 word limit) – Have you participated in or been assisted in your college preparation and search by programs outside of classroom, such as Educational Talent Search, Take Stock in Children, Upward Bound, Boys and Girls Club, etc.? If yes, please provide the name of the program, details/benefits of your involvement, and how long your experiences continued. (250 word limit) – Please provide more details on your most meaningful commitment outside of the classroom while in high school and explain why it was meaningful. This could be related to an extracurricular activity, work, volunteering, an academic activity, family responsibility, or any other non-classroom activity. (250 word limit) – Is there any other information or extenuating circumstances the Admission Committee should know when reviewing your application? (250 word limit) UF Honors Program – Why is applying for the UF Honors Program important to you? Which aspects of the program’s three pillars of opportunity, community, and challenge pique your interests? How would you engage with the program to exemplify these pillars yourself? How does the program factor into your long-term goals? (max 400 words) – Identify two topics you have previously studied that do not traditionally overlap. How do you envision you might bring these topics together during your time in Honors to engage a pressing societal, medical or technological concern? The concern you wish to engage could be of local, national or global scope, but you should be clear about the issue you want to address. For the purposes of this essay, the topics you identify need not have been formally studied in high school, but you should have studied them since beginning in high school. (max 300 words) University of Georgia University of Georgia Essay Prompt The college admissions process can create anxiety. In an attempt to make it less stressful, please tell us an interesting or amusing story about yourself from your high school years that you have not already shared in your application. (200-300 words) University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Essay Prompt Short Answers You’ll answer two to three short-answer prompts as part of your application. The questions you’ll answer will depend on whether you’re applying to a major or to our undeclared program, and if you’ve selected a second choice. Short answers should be no more than 150 words each. If You’re Applying to a Major:
If You’re Applying to Our Undeclared Program:
If You’ve Selected a Second-Choice Major (Including Undeclared): You have selected a second-choice major. Please explain your interest in that major or your overall academic or career goals. University of Kentucky University of Kentucky Essay Prompt Think of a time when you were dealing with a challenge (personal, academic, work related). How did you handle that? Did you seek support and if so who did you seek support from? (Min: 250 / Max: 650) University of Maryland University of Maryland Essay Prompt At the University of Maryland, we encourage our students to go beyond the classroom to engage in opportunities that further both their academic and personal growth. To tell us more about yourself, please complete the following sentences using only the space provided (160 characters). If I could travel anywhere, I would go to… The most interesting fact I ever learned from research was… In addition to my major, my academic interests include… My favorite thing about last Tuesday was… Something you might not know about me is… University of Massachusetts Amherst University of Massachusetts Amherst Essay Prompt 1. Please tell us why you want to attend UMass Amherst? (100 words max.) 2. Please tell us why you chose the Majors you did? (100 words max.) University of Miami University of Miami Essay Prompt If applying for Spring or Fall 2022, you will be required to submit a supplemental essay of 250 words or less in response to the following prompt. The University of Miami’s official mascot is the ibis. Folklore maintains that the native marsh bird is the last to take shelter before a hurricane hits and the first to emerge once the storm passes, making it an apt symbol of courage and resilience. Considering your ability to control your own motivation and behavior, how have past experiences helped build your courage and resilience to persist in the face of academic and life challenges so that, once these storms pass, you can emerge in continued pursuit of your goals? University of Michigan University of Michigan Essay Prompt 1. Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (Required for all applicants; 300 word limit) 2. Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (Required for all applicants; 550 word limit) There are two components of the Ross School of Business Admissions Portfolio: 1. Business Case Discussion: Choose a current event or issue in your community and discuss the business implications. Propose a solution that incorporates business principles or practices. The review panel will look for creativity, drawing connections, and originality. Please limit this response to approximately 500 words. 2. Artifact & Description: Upload a document or artifact that represents something significant about your life to show your learning in action. Describe how your artifact demonstrates your learning in action. Please limit this response to approximately 250 words. University of North Carolina University of North Carolina Essay
Prompt You’ll choose two of the following prompts to respond to in 200-250 words: 1. Describe a peer you see as a community builder. What actions has that peer taken? How has their work made a difference in your life? Fill-in-the-blank responses You’ll complete all four of the following fill-in-the-blank responses in 25 words each: 1. One family tradition I cherish: University of Notre Dame University of Notre Dame Essay Prompt The University of Notre Dame Writing Supplement consists of one (1) essay response to a required question and one (1) essay responses to one of three questions you select from a list of options provided. In total, you will write two (2) essay responses. The word count is a maximum of 200 words per essay. Required Question: The founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross, Blessed Basil Moreau, wrote, “We shall always place education side by side with instruction; the mind will not be cultivated at the expense of the heart.” How do you hope a Notre Dame education and experience will transform your mind and heart? Additional Prompts (You choose 1):
University of Oregon University of Oregon Essay Prompt
HONORS COLLEGE: Tell us one specific story about yourself. Choose something that illustrates what you would contribute to the CHC and/or what you hope to get from your time at the CHC (650 words maximum) University of Pennsylvania University of Pennsylvania Essay Prompt 1. Considering the specific undergraduate school you have selected, how will you explore your academic and intellectual interests at the University of Pennsylvania? For students applying to the coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer these questions in regard to your single-degree school choice; your interest in the coordinated dual-degree or specialized program may be addressed through the program-specific essay. (300-450 words) 2. At Penn, learning and growth happen outside of the classrooms, too. How will you explore the community at Penn? Consider how this community will help shape your perspective and identity, and how your identity and perspective will help shape this community. (150-200 words) University of Rochester University of Rochester Essay Prompt Prompt 1 The University of Rochester motto of Meliora – or “ever better” – deeply integrates critical core values into all that we do. These core values of equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect and accountability define not only who we are, but also who we hope to become. Please use the space below to highlight a time, creative idea or research experience when you put into action one or more of these characteristics in order to make yourself, your community or the world ever better. (200 words or less) You may answer one of three ways: Prompt 1 Essay Response Option: Write an analytical or creative response of 200 words or less. Prompt 1 Creative Response Option: Upload up to three works of your own art (e.g. pictures, video, performances, literary) and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the art is tied to making the world, your community, and those around you “ever better.” Prompt 1 Research Response Option: Upload an abstract describing your own related research and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the research is tied to making the world, your community and those around you “ever better.” Prompt 2 Please select one of the following prompts to respond to in 200 words or less. Prompt 2 Option A: American social reformer, abolitionist, writer and statesman Frederick Douglass said, “Some know the value of education by having it. I knew its value by not having it.” Explain ways in which education has directly influenced you and your ability to do good in the world. How will you use the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities of the University of Rochester experience to grow and to promote positive change for yourself, your community and the world? Prompt 2 Option B: Dr. Donna Strickland, University of Rochester alum and 2018 Nobel Prize winner in Physics said, “There’s no point in me being anything other than me.” The University of Rochester encourages each student to embrace who they are and create their own individual curricular path and experience. How will you use the opportunities here to fully be who you are? What unique perspectives will you bring to our community? Prompt 2 Option C: The University of Rochester benefactor, entrepreneur, photography pioneer, and philanthropist George Eastman said, “What we do during our working hours determines what we have; what we do in our leisure hours determines what we are.” Looking forward towards your college experience, what do you hope to do outside of the classroom at the University of Rochester that will enhance who you are as a person? How will specific academic and social opportunities here help you grow? Prompt 3 Are you interested in pursuing research while enrolled at the University of Rochester? If Yes, what field/area of study are you interested in researching? (20 words) Combined Degree Program Applicants What relevant experiences or insight have led to your interest in this particular program? Describe how Rochester’s resources: facilities, faculty, peers and research will meet your academic and personal ambitions. Describe how you see yourself contributing to the challenging field you want to enter as a Rochester graduate. (500 words) University of Tennessee University of Tennessee Essay Prompt
University of Texas University of Texas Essay Prompt Short Answers 2. Describe how your experiences, perspectives, talents, and/or your involvement in leadership activities (at your school, job, community, or within your family) will help you to make an impact both in and out of the classroom while enrolled at UT. 3. The core purpose of The University of Texas at Austin is, “To Transform Lives for the Benefit of Society.” Please share how you believe your experience at UT-Austin will prepare you to “Change the World” after you graduate. 4. Please share background on events or special circumstances that you feel may have impacted your high school academic performance, including the possible effects of COVID-19. University of Vermont University of Vermont Essay Prompt
University of Virginia Essay Prompt 1. We are looking for passionate students to join our diverse community of scholars, researchers, and artists. Answer the question that corresponds to the school/program to which you are applying in a half page or roughly 250 words.
2. Answer one of the following questions in a half page or roughly 250 words.
University of Washington University of Washington Essay Prompt REQUIRED 2. Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the UW. (300 words) OPTIONAL – You have experienced personal hardships in attaining your education – Your activities have been limited because of work or family obligations – You have experienced unusual limitations or opportunities unique to the schools you attended University of Wisconsin University of Wisconsin Essay Prompt Tell us why you decided to apply to the University of Wisconsin- Madison. In addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. If you selected undecided please describe your areas of possible academic interest. (You may enter up to 650 words). Vanderbilt University Vanderbilt University Essay Prompt Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (200-400 words) Villanova University Villanova University Essay Prompt Villanova requires applicants to submit both their Common Application essay and two short Villanova Essays. Essay #1: Villanova Free Choice (2021-22) For the first Villanova-specific essay, we have offered a range of topics to pique your interest. We hope to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, experiences, and opinions. Choose one of the five topics below and submit a written response in about 250 words. Prompt One: Prompt Two: Prompt Three: Prompt
Four: Prompt Five: Essay #2: Why Nova? (2021-22)You may be aware that our community, which we have affectionately named “Nova Nation,” is an exciting place to be. With a legacy spanning nearly 180 years, there is rich history to look back on, and an abundant future to look forward to. Our second Villanova essay question asks: Why do you want to call Villanova your new home and become part of our community? For this short response, please reveal what you find appealing about Villanova in about 150 words. Wake Forest University Wake Forest University Essay Prompt How did you become interested in Wake Forest University? Feel free to tell us about any contact that you had with Wake Forest that was important to you. (150 words)
Washington University in St. Louis Washington University in St. Louis Essay Prompt Please tell us what you are interested in studying at WashU and why. (200 words max.) If applying to the Beyond Boundaries Program… Tell us what great challenge you might want to understand and tackle leveraging two or more of WashU’s schools and how you would pursue an interdisciplinary path of study that explores that challenge or an aspect of that challenge in a unique and innovative way. (200 words max.) Wellesley College Wellesley College Essay Prompt Yale University Yale University Essay Prompt Short Answer Questions Applicants submitting the Coalition Application, Common Application, or QuestBridge Application will respond to the following short answer questions:
Applicants applying with the QuestBridge Application will complete the questions above via the Yale QuestBridge Questionnaire, available on the Yale Admissions Status Portal after an application has been received. Applicants submitting the Coalition Application or Common Application will also respond to the following short answer questions, in no more than 200 characters (approximately 35 words):
Essays Applicants submitting the Coalition Application or Common Application: use the two short essays (250 words or fewer) below to reflect on topics and personal experiences that will help the Admissions Committee learn more about you. 1. Yale’s extensive course offerings and vibrant conversations beyond the classroom encourage students to follow their developing intellectual interests wherever they lead. Tell us about your engagement with a topic or idea that excites you. Why are you drawn to it? 2. Respond to one of the following prompts:
Applicants submitting the Coalition Application: In addition to responding to the prompts above, upload an audio file, video, image, or document you have created. The upload should complement your response to one of the prompts. Above your response, include a one-sentence description of your upload. Please limit uploads to the following file types: mp3, mov, jpeg, word, pdf. Advanced editing is not necessary. Uploads provided via the Coalition Application will be reviewed by the Admissions Office only. Review the Supplementary Material instructions for material that may be evaluated by Yale faculty. Yeshiva University Yeshiva University Essay Prompt For Spring 2022 and Fall 2022 Applicants: Please respond to the following prompt in 500-750 words: Essay Option 2: Character, values, leadership, and potential: these are characteristics that we are looking for at YU. Please provide examples from your life, your experiences, or your aspirations and how they will be further defined, enhanced, or developed at YU. Essay Option 3: As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to reflect on the past while focusing on hope, happiness and ways to express Hakarat Hatov (gratitude). Please highlight an example where you, your family members or friends have exemplified Hakarat Hatov and the impact it has had on you on a personal level and/or within your community, whether COVID related or not. Other: What are your career goals/interests? 2020-2021 Essay PromptsCommon Application Essays Common Application Essays
New optional 250-word question under Additional Information. Community disruptions such as COVID-19 and natural disasters can have deep and long-lasting impacts. If you need it, this space is yours to describe those impacts. Colleges care about the effects on your health and well-being, safety, family circumstances, future plans, and education, including access to reliable technology and quiet study spaces.
Coalition Application Essays Coalition Application Essays
Optional Essay: Natural disasters and emergency situations like COVID-19 pandemic have impacted the lives of many students and their families. While entirely optional, you may share information here regarding how any of these events have affected you or your family circumstances. Please provide any additional information you would like to share regarding how these events have affected you or your family. (300 words max) American University American University Essay Prompt Auburn University Auburn University Essay Prompt Briefly describe a situation where you were involved in, or were witness to, an act of discrimination; you or someone else was not being treated fairly. Describe a strong interest or passion of yours. Describe an example of a situation where you were given a directive or decision that you
disagreed with. Babson College Babson College Essay Prompt We invite you to submit your answer in either essay OR video format. If you choose to submit a video, please limit your response to a 1-minute video, which can be submitted via a shared link to YouTube or another video hosting website. Barnard College Barnard College
Essay Prompt At Barnard, academic inquiry starts with bold questions. What are some of the bold questions you have pondered that get you excited and why do they interest you? Tell us how you would explore these questions at Barnard. (300 word max.) (Optional) Pick one woman — an historical figure, fictitious character, or modern individual — to converse with for an hour and explain your choice. Why does this person intrigue you? What would you talk about? What questions would you ask them? (300 word max.) Baylor University Baylor University Essay Prompt Boston College Boston College Essay Prompt The writing supplement topics for the 2020-2021 application cycle (400 word limit): 1. Great art evokes a sense of wonder. It nourishes the mind and spirit. Is there a particular song, poem, speech, or novel from which you have drawn insight or inspiration? 2. When you choose a college, you will join a new community of people who have different backgrounds, experiences, and stories. What is it about your background, your experiences, or your story, that will enrich Boston College’s community? 3. Boston College strives to provide an undergraduate learning experience emphasizing the liberal arts, quality teaching, personal formation, and engagement of critical issues. If you had the opportunity to create your own college course, what enduring question or contemporary problem would you address and why? 4. Jesuit education considers the liberal arts a pathway to intellectual growth and character formation. What beliefs and values inform your decisions and actions today, and how will Boston College assist you in becoming a person who thinks and acts for the common good? 5. For Human-Centered Engineering major applicants only: One goal of a Jesuit education is to prepare students to serve the Common Good. Human-Centered Engineering at Boston College strives to develop people who will integrate technical knowledge, creativity, and a humanistic perspective to address societal challenges and opportunities. How would a Boston College engineering education enable you to contribute towards these goals? Boston University Boston University Essay Prompt Brown University Brown University Essay Prompt 2. At Brown, you will learn as much from your peers outside the classroom as in academic spaces. How will you contribute to the Brown community? (250 words) 3. Tell us about a place or community you call home. How has it shaped your perspective? (250 words) Carleton College Carleton College Essay Prompt 2. Why are you applying to Carleton? (no more than 150 words) We’d like to know you better. Please complete the following 3 questions (each in 300 characters or less), and have a little fun doing so: A. I am empowered by people who… B. I appreciate my community because … C. In the future, I hope to explore… Catholic University of America Catholic University Essay Prompt College of Charleston College of Charleston Essay Prompt OPTIONAL: The College of Charleston will carefully consider all parts of your application. Information provided below will be considered in the context of the rest of your application and does not necessarily prevent you from being admitted. Why do you want to attend the College of Charleston? (750 word limit) Columbia University Columbia University Essay Prompt – List the titles of the required readings from academic courses that you enjoyed most during secondary/high school. – List the titles of the books, essays, poetry, short stories or plays you read outside of academic courses that you enjoyed most during secondary/high school. – List the titles of the print or digital publications, websites, journals, podcasts or other content with which you regularly engage. – List the movies, albums, shows, museums, lectures, events at your school or other entertainments that you enjoyed most during secondary/high school (in person or online). – Columbia students take an active role in improving their community, whether in their residence hall, classes or throughout New York City. Their actions, small or large, work to positively impact the lives of others. Share one contribution that you have made to your family, school, friend group or another community that surrounds you. (200 words or fewer) – Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? (200 words or fewer) – For applicants to Columbia College, please tell us what from your current and past experiences (either academic or personal) attracts you specifically to the areas of study that you previously noted in the application. (200 words or fewer) – For applicants to Columbia Engineering, please tell us what from your current and past experiences (either academic or personal) attracts you specifically to the areas of study that you previously noted in the application. (200 words or fewer) Cornell University Cornell University Essay Prompt – College of Agriculture and Life Sciences: : Why are you drawn to studying the major you have selected? Please discuss how your interests and related experiences have influenced your choice. Specifically, how will an education from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) and Cornell University help you achieve your academic goals? – College of Architecture, Art, and Planning: What is your “thing”? What energizes you or engages you so deeply that you lose track of time? Everyone has different passions, obsessions, quirks, inspirations. What are yours? – College of Arts and Sciences: Students in Arts and Sciences embrace the opportunity to delve into multifaceted academic interests, embodying in 21st century terms Ezra Cornell’s “any person…any study” founding vision. Tell us about the areas of study you are excited to explore, and specifically why you wish to pursue them in our College. – Cornell SC Johnson College of Business: What kind of a business student are you? The Cornell SC Johnson College of Business offers two distinct business programs, the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management and the School of Hotel Administration. Please describe how your interests and ambitions can be met through one or both of the Schools within the College. – College of Engineering: Tell us about what excites you most about Cornell Engineering and/or studying engineering at Cornell University. How do you see yourself becoming a part of the Cornell Engineering community? – College of Human Ecology: How has your decision to apply to the College of Human Ecology been influenced by your related experiences? How will your choice of major impact your goals and plans for the future? – School of Industrial and Labor Relations: Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you. Your response should show us that your interests align with the ILR School. Dartmouth College Dartmouth College Essay Prompt While arguing a Dartmouth-related case before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1818, Daniel Webster, Class of 1801, delivered this memorable line: “It is, sir,…a small college, and yet there are those who love it!” As you seek admission to the Class of 2025, what aspects of the College’s program, community, or campus environment attract your interest? Choose one of the following prompts and respond in 250-300 words: – What excites you? – In The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, William Kamkwamba, Class of 2014, reflects on constructing a windmill from recycled materials to power the electrical appliances in his family’s Malawian house: “If you want to make it, all you have to do is try.” What drives you to create and what do you hope to make or have you already made? – Curiosity is a guiding element of Toni Morrison’s talent as a writer. “I feel totally curious and alive and in control. And almost…magnificent, when I write,” she says. Celebrate your curiosity. – “Everything changes, everything moves, everything revolves, everything flies and goes away,” observed Frida Kahlo. Apply Kahlo’s perspective to your own life. – In the aftermath of World War II, Dartmouth President John Sloane Dickey, Class of 1929, proclaimed, “The world’s troubles are your troubles … and there is nothing wrong with the world that better human beings cannot fix.” Which of the world’s “troubles” inspires you to act? How might your course of study at Dartmouth prepare you to address it? Davidson College Davidson College Essay Prompt 2. List the books you have read in the past year for school or leisure. Place an asterisk by those books required for classes you have taken. (No word limit) 3. Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (200 Word Limit) Duke University Duke University Essay Prompt The following questions are optional for all applicants to Duke University: 2. Duke’s commitment to diversity and inclusion includes sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. If you would like to share with us more about your identity, you can do so here, or use any previous essay prompt you feel is appropriate. (250 words maximum) Elon University Elon University Essay Prompt 1. What brings you joy? 2. We’re in your hometown. Where should we eat and what should we order? 3. Name three songs from your perfect playlist. 4. As you look into the future, what gives you hope? (200-250 Word Limit) Emory University Emory University Essay Prompt We encourage you to be thoughtful and not stress about what the right answer might be. We simply want to get to know you better. Each response should be no more than 150 words. “Reflections” Category: Respond to one of the following. A. Share about a time when you questioned something that you believed to be true. B. If you could go back in time, what advice would you offer yourself at the beginning of secondary/high school? C. Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness. “Tell us about you” Category: Respond to one of the following. A. Which book, character, song, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) represents you, and why? B. If you could witness a historic event first-hand, what would it be, and why? C. Introduce yourself to your first-year Emory University roommate. Furman University Furman University Essay Prompt Georgetown University Georgetown University Essay Prompt Indicate any special talents or skills that you possess. Short Essay 1. Briefly (approximately one-half page, single-spaced) discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved. Long Essays Compose two essays (approximately one page, single-spaced each) on the topics given below. Essay 1 – All Applicants: As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief essay, either personal or creative, which you feel best describes you. Essay 2 – Applicants to Georgetown College: What does it mean to you to be educated? How might Georgetown College help you achieve this aim? (Applicants to the Sciences and Mathematics or the Faculty of Languages and Linguistics should address their chosen course of study). Essay 2- Applicants to the School of Nursing and Health Studies: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care. Please specifically address your intended major (Health Care Management & Policy, Human Science, Global Health, or Nursing). Essay 2- Applicants to the Walsh School of Foreign Service: Briefly discuss a current global issue, indicating why you consider it important and what you suggest should be done to deal with it. Essay 2- Applicants to the McDonough School of Business: The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivations for studying business at Georgetown. George Washington University George Washington University Essay Prompt Essay Prompt 1 Essay Prompt 2 Georgia Tech Georgia Tech Essay Prompt For 2021 applicants, we have assessed the most important aspects of the long and short essays and have decided that we will no longer utilize the long essay portion of the Common Application. If submitted, there are no negative ramifications to your application, but know we will not consider this essay as part of your application. Instead, we have carefully crafted two short answer questions that we believe more directly assess your fit and potential contribution to Georgia Tech. To keep the required writing throughout your application to a reasonable amount, the Georgia Tech specific questions will each be limited to 50-300 words. Essay Prompt 1 Essay Prompt 2 – All applicants must choose one of the two questions below B. If you feel that your personal or community background can provide additional insight to your application that we have not already seen elsewhere, please take this opportunity to share that information with us. Harvard University
Harvard University Essay Prompt Writing – Travel, living, or working experiences in your own or other communities – What you would want your future college roommate to know about you – An intellectual experience (course, project, book, discussion, paper, poetry, or research topic in engineering, mathematics, science or other modes of inquiry) that has meant the most to you – How you hope to use your college education – A list of books you have read during the past twelve months – The Harvard College Honor code declares that we “hold honesty as the foundation of our community.” As you consider entering this community that is committed to honesty, please reflect on a time when you or someone you observed had to make a choice about whether to act with integrity and honesty. – The mission of Harvard College is to educate our students to be citizens and citizen-leaders for society. What would you do to contribute to the lives of your classmates in advancing this mission? – Each year a substantial number of students admitted to Harvard defer their admission for one year or take time off during college. If you decided in the future to choose either option, what would you like to do? – Harvard has long recognized the importance of student body diversity of all kinds. We welcome you to write about distinctive aspects of your background, personal development or the intellectual interests you might bring to your Harvard classmates. Harvey Mudd College Harvey Mudd College Essay Prompt 1. What influenced you to apply to Harvey Mudd College? What about the HMC curriculum and community appeals to you? Please limit your response to 500 words. 2. Please select one of the four prompts to answer. Please limit your response to 500 words. Choice 1: Many students choose HMC because they don’t want to give up their interests in the Humanities, Social Sciences and the Arts – or HSA as we call it at HMC. Tell us about your dream HSA class. Your answer might (but doesn’t have to) include projects you could do, texts you might want to read, or topics you would want to explore. Choice 2: ”Scientific research is a human endeavor. The choices of topics that we research are based on our biases, our beliefs, and what we bring: our cultures and our families. The kinds of problems that people put their talents to solving depends on their values.” – Dr. Clifton Poodry – How has your own background influenced the types of problems you want to solve? Choice 3: Who in your life is depending on you? For what are they depending on you? Choice 4: What is one thing we won’t know about you after reading your application? Haverford College Haverford
College Essay Prompt 2. Please tell us what motivated you to apply to Haverford and what excites you most as you imagine your Haverford experience. Please limit your response to up to 150 words. High Point University High Point University Essay Prompt 2. Describe any meaningful travel experiences (both national and international). (50 Word Limit) 3. Why do you want to attend High Point University? (50 Word Limit) Howard University Howard University Essay Prompt Indiana University Indiana University Essay Prompt Johns Hopkins University Johns Hopkins Essay Prompt Lafayette College Lafayette College Essay Prompt 1. Why Lafayette? (Required. Length: 20-200 words.) Lafayette comes alive each day with the energy of students who are deeply engaged in their academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular explorations. We want to know why you would thrive in such an environment. 2. What do you do? Why do you do it? (Optional, but recommended. Length:20-200 words.) Choose one activity and add depth and color to our understanding of your involvement. Massachusetts Institute of Technology Massachusetts Institute of Technology Essay Prompt – Describe the world you come from; for example, your family, clubs, school, community, city, or town. How has that world shaped your dreams and aspirations? (250 words or fewer) – Pick what field of study at MIT appeals to you the most right now, and tell us more about why this field of study appeals to you. – We know you lead a busy life, full of activities, many of which are required of you. Tell us about something you do simply for the pleasure of it. (200–250 words) – At MIT, we bring people together to better the lives of others. MIT students work to improve their communities in different ways, from tackling the world’s biggest challenges to being a good friend. Describe one way in which you have contributed to your community, whether in your family, the classroom, your neighborhood, etc. (200–250 words) – Tell us about the most significant challenge you’ve faced or something important that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation? (200-250 words) – Additional Information: No application can meet the needs of every individual. If you think that additional information or material will give us a more thorough impression of you, please include it here. (Optional; 500 words or less) Northwestern University Northwestern University Essay Prompt While other parts of your application give us a sense of who you are, we are also excited to hear more about how you see yourself engaging with the larger Northwestern community. In 300 words or less, help us understand how you might engage specific resources, opportunities, and/or communities here. We are curious about what these specifics are, as well as how they may enrich your time at Northwestern and beyond. Penn State University Penn State University Essay Prompt Princeton University Princeton University Essay Prompt Briefly elaborate on an activity, organization, work experience, or hobby that has been particularly meaningful to you. (Please respond in about 150 words) Your Voice Please respond to each question in an essay of about 250 words. 1. At Princeton, we value diverse perspectives and the ability to have respectful dialogue about difficult issues. Share a time when you had a conversation with a person or a group of people about a difficult topic. What insight did you gain, and how would you incorporate that knowledge into your thinking in the future? 2. Princeton has a longstanding commitment to service and civic engagement. Tell us how your story intersects (or will intersect) with these ideals. More About You Please respond to each question in 50 words or fewer. There are no right or wrong answers. Be yourself! 1. What is a new skill you would like to learn in college? 2. What brings you joy? 3. What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment? Princeton requires you to submit a graded written paper as part of your application. You may submit this material now or any time before the application deadline. If you choose not to upload the required paper at this time, you may mail, e-mail, or upload your paper through the applicant portal. Providence College Providence College Essay Prompt 1. As a liberal arts school, Providence College provides students with the opportunity to explore several different academic areas. While you may not be ready to declare a major, what have you experienced, inside or outside of the classroom, that has led you to an interest in a particular field of study? OR OR Purdue University Purdue University Essay Prompt Writing 2. Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected. (Respond in 100 words or fewer.) Reed College Reed College Essay Prompt Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Essay Prompt Rice University Rice Essay Prompt 2. Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? 3. Rice is lauded for creating a collaborative atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for all members of our campus community. The Residential College System and undergraduate life are heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What life perspectives would you contribute to the Rice community? Architecture Applicants Architecture applicants will not be required to answer question #3 (above). Instead, they will answer questions #1 and #2 above, along with #4 and #5: 4. Why are you determined to study architecture? Could you please elaborate on your past experiences and how they have motivated you to apply to Rice University and the School of Architecture in particular? 5. Please expand on relevant experiences and motivations outside of your academic trajectory that have inspired you to study architecture, focusing on aspects that are not accommodated by other prompts in the application. Rochester Institute of Technology Rochester Institute of Technology Essay Prompt Please provide a course title and brief description. (75 words max.) Santa Clara University Santa Clara Essay Prompt 2. Driven by the Jesuit values outlined in our mission statement, Santa Clara University promises to educate citizens and leaders of competence, conscience, and compassion. We strive to cultivate knowledge and faith to build a more humane, just, and sustainable world. How do you plan to live out and implement these values in your own life to create a more equitable society? (between 150-300 words). Southern Methodist University SMU Essay Prompt 2. SMU is a diverse learning environment shaped by the convergence of ideas and cultures. How will your unique experiences or background enhance the University, and how will you benefit from this community? (250-word limit) Stanford University Stanford University Essay Prompt – How did you spend your last two summers? (50 words max.) – What historical moment or event do you wish you could have witnessed? (50 words max.) – Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities, a job you hold, or responsibilities you have for your family. (50 words max.) – Name one thing you are looking forward to experiencing at Stanford. (50 words max.) Stanford Short Essays – Virtually all of Stanford’s undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate – and us – get to know you better. (250 words max.) – Tell us about something that is meaningful to you and why. (250 words max.) Swarthmore College Swarthmore Essay Prompt – Swarthmore students’ worldviews are often forged by their prior experiences and exposure to ideas and values. Our students are often mentored, supported, and developed by their immediate context—in their neighborhoods, communities of faith, families, and classrooms. Reflect on what elements of your home, school, or community have shaped you or positively impacted you. How have you grown or changed because of the influence of your community? – We are inspired by students who are flexible in their approach to learning, who are comfortable with experimentation, and who are willing to take intellectual risks that move them out of their comfort zone. Reflect on a time that you were intellectually challenged, inspired, or took an intellectual risk—inside or outside of the classroom. How has that experience shaped you, and what questions still linger? – Why are you interested in applying to and attending Swarthmore? Syracuse University Syracuse Essay Prompt Why are you interested in Syracuse University and how do you see yourself contributing to a diverse, inclusive and respectful campus community? Texas Christian University TCU Essay Prompt 2. How would you describe your personal character? (Recommended Length: 100 words) Trinity College Trinity College Essay Prompt a. We live in an urban-global age with more than half of the planet’s people living in cities. Trinity College is an urban liberal arts college deeply engaged with the local community and committed to making an impact across the world. How do you aspire to use your education to impact local and global communities? b. Our mission states: “Engage. Connect. Transform. As the preeminent liberal arts college in an urban setting, Trinity College prepares students to be bold, independent thinkers who lead transformative lives.” Keeping the three pillars of the mission in mind, how do you see yourself contributing to the Trinity community? Tufts University Tufts University Essay Prompt 1. Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short, “Why Tufts?” (100-150 words) 2. Now we’d like to know a little more about you. Please respond to one of the following three questions. (200-250 words): A) It’s cool to love learning. What excites your intellectual curiosity? B) How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today? C) Where are you on your journey of engaging with or fighting for social justice? Applicants to the BFA or 5-Year BFA+BA/BS Combined Degree at the SMFA at Tufts answer the following two questions: 1. Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? Why SMFA at Tufts? (100-150 words) 2. Art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. What are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work? (200-250 words) Tulane University Tulane University Essay Prompt Please describe why you are interested in attending Tulane University (optional) (50-800 words) University of California University
of California Personal Insight Questions – Each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. – Which questions you choose to answer is entirely up to you: But you should select questions that are most relevant to your experience and that best reflect your individual circumstances – All questions are equal: All are given equal consideration in the application review process, which means there is no advantage or disadvantage to choosing certain questions over others. – There is no right or wrong way to answer these questions: It’s about getting to know your personality, background, interests and achievements in your own unique voice.
Things to consider:A leadership role can mean more than just a title. It can mean being a mentor to others, acting as the person in charge of a specific task, or taking the lead role in organizing an event or project. Think about what you accomplished and what you learned from the experience. What were your responsibilities? Did you lead a team? How did your experience change your perspective on leading others? Did you help to resolve an important dispute at your school, church, in your community or an organization? And your leadership role doesn’t necessarily have to be limited to school activities. For example, do you help out or take care of your family?
Things to consider: What does creativity mean to you? Do you have a creative skill that is important to you? What have you been able to do with that skill? If you used creativity to solve a problem, what was your solution? What are the steps you took to solve the problem? How does your creativity influence your decisions inside or outside the classroom? Does your creativity relate to your major or a future career?
Things to consider:If there’s a talent or skill that you’re proud of, this is the time to share it. You don’t necessarily have to be recognized or have received awards for your talent (although if you did and you want to talk about it, feel free to do so). Why is this talent or skill meaningful to you? Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule?
Things to consider:An educational opportunity can be anything that has added value to your educational experience and better prepared you for college. For example, participation in an honors or academic enrichment program, or enrollment in an academy that’s geared toward an occupation or a major, or taking advanced courses that interest you — just to name a few. If you choose to write about educational barriers you’ve faced, how did you overcome or strive to overcome them? What personal characteristics or skills did you call on to overcome this challenge? How did overcoming this barrier help shape who are you today?
Things to consider:A challenge could be personal, or something you have faced in your community or school. Why was the challenge significant to you? This is a good opportunity to talk about any obstacles you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from the experience. Did you have support from someone else or did you handle it alone? If you’re currently working your way through a challenge, what are you doing now, and does that affect different aspects of your life? For example, ask yourself, “How has my life changed at home, at my school, with my friends or with my family?”
Things to consider: Many students have a passion for one specific academic subject area, something that they just can’t get enough of. If that applies to you, what have you done to further that interest? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had inside and outside the classroom — such as volunteer work, internships, employment, summer programs, participation in student organizations and/or clubs — and what you have gained from your involvement. Has your interest in the subject influenced you in choosing a major and/or future career? Have you been able to pursue coursework at a higher level in this subject (honors, AP, IB, college or university work)? Are you inspired to pursue this subject further at UC, and how might you do that?
Things to consider: Think of community as a term that can encompass a group, team or a place — like your high school, hometown or home. You can define community as you see fit, just make sure you talk about your role in that community. Was there a problem that you wanted to fix in your community? Why were you inspired to act? What did you learn from your effort? How did your actions benefit others, the wider community or both? Did you work alone or with others to initiate change in your community?
Things to consider: If there’s anything you want us to know about you, but didn’t find a question or place in the application to tell us, now’s your chance. What have you not shared with us that will highlight a skill, talent, challenge or opportunity that you think will help us know you better? From your point of view, what do you feel makes you an excellent choice for UC? Don’t be afraid to brag a little. Note: The UC schools do not utilize the Coalition Application or Common Application and therefore do not consider those essay prompts. University of Central Florida University of Central Florida Essay Prompt Although optional, an essay assists the Admissions Committee in knowing you as an individual, independent of test scores and other objective data. We ask that you respond to two of the topics below. Your responses should be no longer than a total of 500 words or 7,000 characters.
University of Chicago University of Chicago Essay Prompt Question 1 (Required) Extended Essay (Required; Choose one) 2. What can actually be divided by zero? 3. The seven liberal arts in antiquity consisted of the Quadrivium — astronomy, mathematics, geometry, and music — and the Trivium — rhetoric, grammar, and
logic. Describe your own take on the Quadrivium or the Trivium. What do you think is essential for everyone to know? 4. Subway maps, evolutionary trees, Lewis diagrams. Each of these schematics tells the relationships and stories of their component parts. Reimagine a map, diagram, or chart. If your work is largely or exclusively visual, please include a cartographer’s key of at least 300 words to help us best understand your creation. 5. “Do you feel lucky? Well, do ya, punk?” – Eleanor Roosevelt. Misattribute a famous quote and explore the implications of doing so. 6. Engineer George de Mestral got frustrated with burrs stuck to his dog’s fur and applied the same mechanic to create Velcro. Scientist Percy Lebaron Spencer found a melted chocolate bar in his magnetron lab and discovered microwave cooking. Dye-works owner Jean Baptiste Jolly found
his tablecloth clean after a kerosene lamp was knocked over on it, consequently shaping the future of dry cleaning. Describe a creative or interesting solution, and then find the problem that it solves. 7. In the spirit of adventurous inquiry, pose your own question or choose one of our past prompts. Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun. Approximately 250-500 words University of Colorado Boulder University of Colorado Boulder Essay Prompt University of Florida University of Florida Essay Prompt – List and describe each job you’ve had, including dates of employment, job titles, and hours worked each week. (250 word limit) – Do you have any employment or family obligations that limit your participation in extracurricular activities. If so, please describe. (250 word limit) – List any programs or activities that helped you prepare for higher education, such as University Outreach, Talent Search, Upward Bound, Boys and Girls Club, etc. (250 word limit) – Is there any other information for the Admission Committee to consider when your application is reviewed? (250 word limit) University of Georgia University of Georgia Essay Prompt University of Maryland University of Maryland Essay Prompt To tell us more about yourself, please complete the following sentences using only the space provided (160 characters). 1. If I could travel anywhere, I would go to… 2. The most interesting fact I ever learned from research was… 3. In addition to my major, my academic interests include… 4. In addition to my major, my academic interests include… 5. Something you might not know about me is… University of Massachusetts Amherst UMass Amherst Essay Prompt 2. Please tell us why you chose the Majors you did? (100 word count) University of Miami University of Miami Essay Prompt The University of Miami’s official mascot is the ibis. Folklore maintains that the native marsh bird is the last to take shelter before a hurricane hits and the first to emerge once the storm passes, making it an apt symbol of courage and resilience. Considering your ability to control your own motivation and behavior, how have past experiences helped build your courage and resilience to persist in the face of academic and life challenges so that, once these storms pass, you can emerge in continued pursuit of your goals? University of Michigan University of Michigan Essay Prompt 2. Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (Required for all applicants; 550 word limit) University of North Carolina Chapel Hill UNC
Chapel Hill Essay Prompt – Expand on an aspect of your identity – for example, your religion, culture, race, sexual or gender identity, affinity group, etc. How has this aspect of your identity shaped your life experiences thus far? – If you could change one thing about where you live, what would it be and why? – Describe someone who you see as a community builder. What actions has that person taken? How has their work made a difference in your life? University of North Carolina Wilmington UNC Wilmington Essay Prompt University of Notre Dame University of Notre Dame Essay Prompt Please provide a response to the following question: The founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross, Blessed Basil Moreau, wrote, “We shall always place education side by side with instruction; the mind will not be cultivated at the expense of the heart.” How do you hope a Notre Dame education and experience will transform your mind and heart? Please provide responses to TWO (2) of the following questions: 1. A Notre Dame education is not just for you, but also for those who will benefit from the impact you make. Who do you aspire to serve after you graduate? 2. In response to the rising momentum behind the Black Lives Matter movement during June 2020, G. Marcus Cole, the Joseph A. Matson Dean of the Notre Dame Law School, penned an open letter entitled, “I am George Floyd. Except I can breathe. And I can do something.” He issues a call to the Notre Dame community saying, “each of us must do what we can, wherever we are.” What is one action you are taking “to change this world for the better?” 3. God and the Good Life is an interdisciplinary course created by the departments of Philosophy and Film, Television, and Theatre that asks students to consider moral questions about what they believe and how they want to live their lives. What do God and a good life mean to you? 4. Notre Dame has a rich history deeply rooted in tradition. Share how a favorite tradition from your life has impacted who you are today. 5. What brings you joy? University of Pennsylvania University of Pennsylvania Essay Prompt At Penn, learning and growth happen outside of the classroom, too. How will you explore the community at Penn? Consider how this community will help shape your perspective and identity, and how your identity and perspective will help shape this community. (150-200 words) For students applying to the coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer these questions in regard to your single-degree school choice; your interest in the coordinated dual-degree or specialized program may be addressed through the program-specific essay. University of Pittsburgh University of Pittsburgh Essay Prompt 1. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are integral to the Pitt community. Please identify and describe one element of your personal identity, and explain how that element would positively impact and/or progress Pitt’s community. 2. Resumes and lists of activities provide the Admissions Committee with an overview of your accomplishments. Please use this opportunity to provide more information by identifying one of your accomplishments and explaining how it has prepared you for a transition into collegiate life. 3. If you could create a new product, process, business, or organization, what would it be? Please describe its purpose and how it would function. (We especially encourage applicants interested in the College of Business Administration or the Swanson School of Engineering to respond to this question.) 4. With thousands of colleges and universities in the United States alone, discuss why the University of Pittsburgh is a good fit for you. The two following questions are required for PittHonors consideration. 1. A hallmark of students in PittHonors is intellectual curiosity. Please describe how you have demonstrated intellectual curiosity in the past and how you expect to manifest that intellectual curiosity as a student at the University of Pittsburgh. 2. An important emphasis of PittHonors is working for the public good. Please describe how you have worked for the public good in the past and how you expect to continue to do so as a student at the University of Pittsburgh? University of Southern California USC Essay Prompt – USC faculty place an emphasis on interdisciplinary academic opportunities. Describe something outside of your intended academic focus about which you are interested in learning. – What is something about yourself that is essential to understanding you? Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (Approximately 250 words) Starting with the beginning of high school/secondary school, if you have had a gap where you were not enrolled in school during a fall or spring term, please address this gap in your educational history. You do not need to address a summer break. (250 word limit) Short Answers – What is your favorite snack? – Best movie of all time. – Dream job. – If your life had a theme song, what would it be? – Dream trip. – What TV show will you binge watch next? – Which well-known person or fictional character would be your ideal roommate? – Favorite book. – If you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be? University of Texas at Austin UT Austin Essay Prompt Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today? Short Answers (250-300 words) 1. Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major? 2. Leadership can be demonstrated in many ways. Please share how you have demonstrated leadership in either your school, job, community, and/or within your family responsibilities. 3. Please share how you believe your experiences, perspectives, and/or talents have shaped your ability to contribute to and enrich the learning environment at UT Austin, both in and out of the classroom. University of Vermont University of Vermont Essay Prompt Please answer one of the five questions: 1) Why UVM? 2) Established in 1978 in a renovated gas station in Burlington, VT, Ben and Jerry’s is synonymous with the ice cream business. The company’s success and unique brand identity are due in part to their one-of-a-kind flavors. Which Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavor (real or imagined) best describes you? 3) Whether they are constructing a robot, a stronger sense of community or an identity, UVM students are builders. What would you like to build? 4) At UVM, learning extends far beyond the walls of our classrooms. From student-led organizations, to internships and study abroad experiences, UVM students are encouraged to pursue knowledge in all environments. Describe a time when you’ve learned in a non-traditional setting. 5) Communities and organizations are stronger when they value diversity of thought. How do you create meaningful connections or conversations with others when they express opinions that differ from your own? University of Virginia University of Virginia Essay Prompt 1. We are looking for passionate students to join our diverse community of scholars, researchers, and artists. Answer the question that corresponds to the
school/program to which you are applying in a half page or roughly 250 words. 2. Answer one of the following questions in a half page or roughly 250 words. University of Washington University of Washington Essay Prompt 1. Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it. (500 words) 2. Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the UW. (300 words) OPTIONAL You are not required to write anything in this section, but you may include additional information if something has particular significance to you. For example, you may use this space if: – You have experienced personal hardships in attaining your education – Your activities have been limited because of work or family obligations – You have experienced unusual limitations or opportunities unique to the schools you attended University of Wisconsin University of Wisconsin Essay Prompt If you apply using the Common Application, you will be asked to respond to one of the freshman Common Application essays. If you apply with the UW System Application, you will need to answer the following prompt: All Campuses: This part is all about you. Tell us about something you’ve done—academically or personally—and what you’ve learned from it. Was it a success or a challenge? Did it represent a turning point in your life? How did this particular moment in your life influence you, and how will it continue to influence you as you pursue your college education? (650 words max.) All applicants applying to UW-Madison or UW-La Crosse will also need to respond to this prompt: UW – Madison: Tell us why you would like to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In addition, please include why you are interested in studying the major(s) you have selected. If you selected undecided, please describe your areas of possible academic interest. (650 words max.) UW – La Crosse: Please respond to the following: How will your life experiences, commitments, and/or characteristics enrich the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse campus community? Tell us why you are interested in attending UW–La Crosse and what aspects of the campus are especially important to you? (650 words max.) Vanderbilt University Vanderbilt Essay Prompt Villanova University Villanova Essay Prompt At Villanova, we view our essay as a unique opportunity for students to move beyond the transcript and introduce the individual behind the application. Villanova requires applicants to submit both their Common Application essay and two short Villanova Essays. The two supplemental responses must be different from the response shared in the Common Application essay section. For the first Villanova-specific essay, we have offered a range of topics to pique your interest. We hope to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, experiences, and opinions. Choose one of the four topics below and submit a written response in about 250 words. For your second response we would like to know a little bit more about why you are interested in attending Villanova University. This is a shorter essay and should be about 100 words. Villanova Essay Free Choice Prompts Option Two: Option Three: Option Four: Why Nova Essay Virginia Tech Virginia Tech Essay Prompt Virginia Tech’s motto is “Ut Prosim” which means ‘That I May Serve’. We are interested in learning more about your interests and how you have been involved and/or served. Briefly describe a group, organization, or community that you have been involved with. Is this a special area of interest for you, and why? How long have you been involved? What role did you play? What contributions have you made to this group? Were you able to influence others and/or influence decisions for the good of the group? Describe a situation where you were involved or witness to an act of discrimination. How, or did, you respond? Do you wish you would have responded differently? Did this situation cause any change to happen based on this event and did you have a role in that change? What did you learn from this experience? Briefly describe a personal goal you have set for yourself. Why this goal, what is your timeline to achieve this goal, what precipitated this goal? Have you turned to anyone for advice or help, what was their role, what did you learn about yourself, are you still working toward this goal? Describe an example of a situation where you have significantly influenced others, took on a leadership role, helped resolve a dispute, or contributed to a group’s goals. What was your role, what responsibilities did you take on? Did you encounter any obstacles, and if so how did you respond, were you able to overcome them? What would you do differently? Wake Forest University Wake Forest Essay Prompt How did you become interested in Wake Forest University? Feel free to tell us about any contact that you had with Wake Forest that was important to you. (150 words) 1a. List five books you’ve read that intrigued you. 1b. Explain how a book you’ve read has helped you to understand the world’s complexity. (150 words) 2. Tell us more about the topic that most engages your intellectual curiosity. (150 words) 3. Describe a community that is important to you. How has that community prepared you to engage with, change, or even build the Wake Forest community? (150 words) 4. Give us your Top Ten list. Essay: On a separate page, using 250-650 words, please submit an essay on a topic of your choice. Washington University in St. Louis Washington University in St. Louis Essay Prompt If you indicate an interest in the Beyond Boundaries program on your application for admission, you will be asked to respond to a different prompt. Many of our students broadly explore the connections across WashU’s five undergraduate divisions and three graduate schools and engage with the community before declaring a major. The Beyond Boundaries Program equips students with a set of tools to critically understand and make a difference in a complicated world where challenges do not come pre-packaged as territory of a single discipline. In about 250 words, tell us what great challenge you might want to understand and tackle leveraging two or more of WashU’s schools and how you would pursue an interdisciplinary path of study that explores that challenge or an aspect of that challenge in a unique and innovative way. William & Mary William & Mary Essay Prompt Worcester Polytechnic Institute Worcester Polytechnic Institute Essay Prompt Yale University Yale University Essay Prompt All first-year applicants will complete a few Yale-specific short answer questions. These required questions are slightly different based on the application platform an applicant chooses. The 2020-2021 Yale-specific questions for the Coalition Application, Common Application, and QuestBridge Application are detailed below. Short Answer Questions – Students at Yale have plenty of time to explore their academic interests before committing to one or more major fields of study. Many students either modify their original academic direction or change their minds entirely. As of this moment, what academic areas seem to fit your interests or goals most comfortably? Please indicate up to three from the list provided. – Why do these areas appeal to you? (125 words or fewer) – What is it about Yale that has led you to apply? (125 words or fewer) Applicants submitting the Coalition Application or Common Application will also respond to the following short answer questions, in no more than 200 characters (approximately 35 words): – What inspires you? – Yale’s residential colleges regularly host conversations with guests representing a wide range of experiences and accomplishments. What person, past or present, would you invite to speak? What question would you ask? – You are teaching a Yale course. What is it called? – Most first-year Yale students live in suites of four to six students. What do you hope to add to your suitemates’ experience? What do you hope they will add to yours? Essays 1. Yale’s extensive course offerings and vibrant conversations beyond the classroom encourage students to follow their developing intellectual interests wherever they lead. Tell us about your engagement with a topic or idea that excites you. Why are you drawn to it? 2. Respond to one of the following prompts: 2A. Reflect on your membership in a community. Why is your involvement important to you? How has it shaped you? You may define community however you like. 2B. Yale students, faculty, and alumni engage issues of local, national, and international significance. Discuss an issue that is important to you and how your college experience could help you address it. 2C. Tell us about your relationship with a role model or mentor who has been influential in your life. How has their guidance been instrumental to your growth? Applicants submitting the Coalition Application: In addition to responding to the prompts above, upload an audio file, video, image, or document you have created. The upload should complement your response to one of the prompts. Above your response, include a one-sentence description of your upload. Please limit uploads to the following file types: mp3, mov, jpeg, word, pdf. Advanced editing is not necessary. Uploads provided via the Coalition Application will be reviewed by the Admissions Office only. Review the Supplementary Material instructions for material that may be evaluated by Yale faculty. Engineering Essay – Please tell us more about what has led you to an interest in this field of study, what experiences (if any) you have had in engineering, and what it is about Yale’s engineering program that appeals to you. Can I submit more than 650 words on Common App?The Common App essay word count range is 250-650 words.
Does Common App say 650 word limit?The Common App will specify the word limit for writing your essay. This has changed over the years. The current word count is between 250 and 650 words. The online application won't accept essays that are below 250 words or over 650 words.
Is the Common App open for 2023?The 2022–2023 Common Application launches on August 1, 2022.
How strict is the Common App word limit?Aug 12, 2022•Knowledge
There is no strict word limit, but most essays are around 500 words. If you choose essay options six or seven, be sure to include the prompt to which you are responding at the top of your uploaded document.
|
