uw essay prompts 2023

University of Texas Essay Prompt Essay Topic (500-700 words) 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 each) Complete all three short answer prompts:

Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major? 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. 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.

University of Tennessee Essay Prompt Optional Supporting Statement UT has a competitive admissions process that primarily considers your experience and preparation in academic areas, as well as other individual factors. All aspects of your application will be evaluated. Submitting a supporting statement (while optional) can provide crucial information to aid the admissions staff in the decision-making process.

What should I include in my supporting statement? If you were having a personal interview with members of our admissions staff, what information would you want them to know about you? You can include your academic interests, achievements, involvement in school and the community, important personal experiences, obstacles you’ve overcome, and other aspects of your background. (250-800 words)

University of Vermont Essay Prompts Please answer one of the five questions: (500 word limit)

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 Essay Prompts The first prompt is tied to the UVA school or college the student selects. Answer the prompt in around 100 words.

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? 2. We are a community with quirks, both in language and in traditions. What is one of your quirks? 3. About what topic could you speak for an hour? 4. Take us to your happy place. 5. You can wake up tomorrow and a skill you already have will become expert-level. What skill is that? 6. What is the last gift you gave something that wasn’t bought with money? 7. What website is the internet missing? 8. After a challenging experience, how do you recharge? 9. Tell us about a place you’d like to share with everyone, but also keep to yourself. 10. UVA students paint messages on Beta Bridge when they want to share information with our community. What would you paint on Beta Bridge and why is this your message?

University of Washington Essay Prompts Freshman writing section At the UW, we consider the college essay as our opportunity to see the person behind the transcripts and the numbers. Some of the best statements are written as personal stories. In general, concise, straightforward writing is best, and good essays are often 300-400 words in length.

Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.

Maximum length: 650 words

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.

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

Maximum length: 200 words

University of Wisconsin Essay Prompt All campuses use the following essay for the Institutional Application: 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?

UW-Madison and UW-La Crosse require an additional essay: UW-La Crosse Please respond to ONE of the following: (1) How will your life experiences, commitments, and/or characteristics enrich the UW-La Crosse campus community? OR (2) Tell us why you are interested in attending UW-La Crosse and what aspects of the campus are especially important to you.

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.

Vanderbilt University Essay Prompts

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (200-400 words)

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? Why do you want to call Villanova your new home and how will you become part of our community? Please submit a written response of about 150 words.

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?

– 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

Please limit your response to the Wellesley College essay to two well-developed paragraphs (minimum 250 words, maximum 400 words).

Yale University Essay Prompt Applicants submitting the Coalition Application, Common Application, or QuestBridge Application will respond to the following short answer questions:

1. Students at Yale have 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.

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): 1. What inspires you?

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 Prompts

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Coalition Application Essays In fewer than 650 words, respond to one of the following prompts:

Describe a time when you made a meaningful contribution to others in which the greater good was your focus. Discuss the challenges and rewards of making your contribution.
Has there been a time when you’ve had a long-cherished or accepted belief challenged? How did you respond? How did the challenge affect your beliefs?
What is the hardest part of being a student now? What’s the best part? What advice would you give a younger sibling or friend (assuming they would listen to you)?
Submit an essay on a topic of your choice.

American University Essay Prompt

Why are you interested in American University? (150 words max.)

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 Essay Prompt – What factors encouraged your decision to apply to Barnard College, and why do you think the college would be a good match for you? (Max 300 words)

– 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:

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 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):

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?
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.
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?
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.
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?
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 Essay Prompt

What about being a student at Boston University most excites you? (250 words)

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 Essay Prompt

Essays questions for first year applicants :

Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might use the Open Curriculum to pursue them while also embracing topics with which you are unfamiliar. (200-250 words)
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)
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)

Three essays are required for applicants to the Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) :

Committing to a future career as a physician while in high school requires careful consideration and self-reflection. What values and experiences have led you to believe that becoming a doctor in medicine is the right fit for you? (250 word limit)
Respond to one of the following prompts (500 word limit): A. 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? B. How do you feel your personal background provides you with a unique perspective of medicine?
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? (500 word limit)

One essay is required for applicants to the Brown|RISD Dual Degree Program :

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 Essay Prompt

Please tell us about your interest in the major you selected (200 words or fewer). **Students can list a second choice major here and if they do, they’ll need to answer this prompt for both majors.**

Out of the thousands of universities and colleges, what excites you about attending Chapman University specifically? (200 words max)

Choose 1. (200 words max)

Every Chapman student holds multiple identities that create the diverse fabric of our community. Our committee would like to hear about the intersectionality of your identities and how those have played a crucial role in your life.

Part of the Chapman student experience is to grow or transform your own perspectives. What impact would you like to have at Chapman and what legacy would you like to leave on our community?

What is your dream job?

Please list three words to describe yourself.

What song should we be listening to while reading your application?

Name one dish you would cook for our admission team.

What is your favorite subject?

What is the top thing on your bucket list?

What makes you happy?

Created by a prospective student of the Fall 2019 class: If Chapman’s admission team came to visit your hometown, what site would you take them to?

Created by a prospective student of the Fall 2020 class: What can you give a 30-minute presentation on without any preparation?*

Created by a prospective student of the Fall 2021 class: If you could teach a college course that best describes you, what would it be called?

Created by a prospective student of the Fall 2022 class: What is something you have always wanted to learn but never had the chance to?

Columbia University Essay Prompt Writing Questions

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 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 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:

The Hawaiian word mo’olelo is often translated as “story” but it can also refer to history, legend, genealogy, and tradition. Use one of these translations to introduce yourself.
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?

Duke University Essay Prompt

Please share with us why you consider Duke a good match for you. Is there something in particular about Duke’s academic or other offerings that attract you? (200 words maximum)
Duke University seeks a talented, engaged student body that embodies the wide range of human experience; we believe that the diversity of our students makes our community stronger. If you’d like to share a perspective you bring or experiences you’ve had that would help us understand you better, perhaps a community you belong to or your family or cultural background, we encourage you to do so here. Real people are reading your application, and we want to do our best to understand and appreciate the real people applying to Duke. (250 words maximum)
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 in these areas, you can do so here, or use any previous essay prompt you feel is appropriate. (250 words maximum)

Elon University Essay Prompt

What brings you joy? (30 words max)
We’re in your hometown. Where should we eat and what should we order? (30 words max)
Name three songs from your perfect playlist. (30 words max)
As you look into the future, what gives you hope? (200-250 Word Limit)

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 Short Answer Questions: Academic Interests (Required. 200 words max) • What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college?

Getting to Know You (Choose 1. Required. 150 words max) • 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?

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 Essay Prompt

Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech? (max 300 words)

Gonzaga University Essay Prompt

Please choose one of the following questions to the answer below (In 5-10 sentences):

Please share an experience that made you feel uncomfortable or challenged, and then explain how you grew from the situation.
Please share an experience you have had outside of the classroom that has contributed to your personal growth.

For nursing applicants only: Gonzaga University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program is grounded in Jesuit and nursing traditions and focuses the student experience on community, reflection, servant leadership and social justice. Students learn to promote health, care for patients with acute and chronic illnesses, and to support patients and their families.

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 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: – Unusual circumstances in your life – 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.

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (150 words max.)

High Point University Essay Prompt

Describe any special interests or hobbies that you may have. (50 Word Limit)
Describe any meaningful travel experiences (both national and international). (50 Word Limit)
Why do you want to attend High Point University? (50 Word Limit)

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.

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.

Lehigh University Essay Prompt

With the understanding that some students will change colleges at Lehigh after the first year, please briefly describe why you chose to apply to the first-choice college or major that you listed above. (200-word limit)
How did you first learn about Lehigh University and what motivated you to apply? (150-word limit)
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 respond to issues of inequality, inequity, or injustice? (300-word limit)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology Essay Prompt

For the 2021–2022 application, we’re asking these short answer essay questions:

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. (100 words or fewer)
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)

New York University Essay Prompt

MLK Scholars Program: Tell us more about why you are interested in this program. (200 words max)
We would like to know more about your interest in NYU. What motivated you to apply to NYU? Why have you applied or expressed interest in a particular campus, school, college, program, and or area of study? If you have applied to more than one, please also tell us why you are interested in these additional areas of study or campuses. We want to understand – Why NYU? (400 words max)

North Carolina State University

Explain why you selected the academic program(s) above and why you are interested in studying these at NC State. (250 words)
Discuss any other obstacles and/or hardships that you have encountered that have affected you personally or academically and how you dealt with them. (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 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? (We strongly encourage a response, as your answer will help us connect the dots across your application to imagine what kind of college student you might become.)

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 Essay Prompt

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)

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)

– 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 Essay Prompt Choose 1. (500 words max)

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?
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?
If you could have a theme song, what would it be and why?

Purdue University Essay Prompt

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. (250 words max)
How will opportunities at Purdue support your interests, both in and out of the classroom? (Respond in 100 words or fewer.)
Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected. (Respond in 100 words or fewer.)
Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the second choice major you have selected. (Respond in 100 words or fewer.)

Rice University Essay Prompt

Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected. 150 word limit.
Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you? 150 word limit.
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 is heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural tradition each student brings. What life perspectives would you contribute to the Rice community? 500 word limit.
One of Rice’s long-standing traditions is “The Box,” a question on our application where we ask all of our applicants to share an image of something that appeals to them. The Box gives you the opportunity to present us with an image that shares something about yourself, your interests or what is meaningful to you. This image is not used for evaluative purposes in the application, but allows you to put your stamp on the application about who you are aside from what you have achieved. Be sure to choose an image that speaks for itself and does not need an explanation. The Box must be a two-dimensional image that is uploaded in the Common Application or the Coalition Application, or uploaded in the Rice Admission Student Portal.

Rollins College Essay Prompt Please briefly elaborate on your community service or one of your extracurricular activities. (250 words max)

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 Essay Prompt

Stanford Short Essays – The Stanford community is deeply curious and driven to learn in and out of the classroom. Reflect on an idea or experience that makes you genuinely excited about learning. (250 words max.)

– 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.) Stanford Short Answers – 50 words each:

– 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.

Stetson University Essay Prompt

We are excited that you have selected Stetson. What interests you most about Stetson? (500 words max)
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.

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)

The George Washington University Essay Prompt

(Optional) Every applicant can choose from one of the following two essay prompts to submit.

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:

Tulane University Essay Prompt – Please describe why you are interested in attending Tulane University (optional). (Max 800 words)

– 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)

University of California Essay Prompt

You will have 8 questions to choose from. You must respond to only 4 of the 8 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.

Keep In Mind

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.
Use the additional comments field if there are issues you’d like to address that you didn’t have the opportunity to discuss elsewhere on the application. This shouldn’t be an essay, but rather a place to note unusual circumstances or anything that might be unclear in other parts of the application. You may use the additional comments field to note extraordinary circumstances related to COVID-19, if necessary.

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.

University of Central Florida Essay Prompt Common Application Questions

– 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 Choose two (2). (500 words max.)

If there has been some obstacle or bump in the road in your academic or personal life, please explain the circumstances.
How has your family history, culture or environment influenced who you are?
Why did you choose to apply to UCF?
What qualities or unique characteristics do you possess that will allow you to contribute to the UCF community?

University of Chicago Essay Prompt

Question 1 ( Required )

Question 2: Extended Essay ( Required; Choose one )

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! —Inspired by Tate Flicker, Class of 2025

What’s so easy about pie? —Inspired by Arjun Kalia, Class of 2025

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? —Inspired by Carina Kane, Class of 2024, and Ishaan Goel, Class of 2025

“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. —Inspired by Haina Lu, Class of 2022

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. —Inspired by Ori Brian, AB’19

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 Essay Prompt Instead of a separate writing supplement, we require 2 short-answer questions in our College Questions section.

Required question #1 (250 words or less) – At the University of Colorado Boulder, no two Buffs are alike. We value difference and support equity and inclusion of all students and their many intersecting identities. Pick one of your unique identities and describe its significance.
Required question #2 (250 words or less) – 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 Essay Prompt

– Do you have any employment or family obligations that limit your participation in extracurricular activities. If so, please describe. (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 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 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:

In the past 3 to 4 years, what experience(s) have you had (inside or outside of the classroom) related to your selected first-choice major or academic interest?
How does your selected first-choice major relate to your future career goals?

If You’re Applying to Our Undeclared Program:

What are your academic interests and strengths? You may also include any majors you are considering.
What are your future academic or career goals?

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 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 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 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 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.

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)

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 Essay Prompt Short Answer Prompts

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? 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?

You’ll complete all four of the following fill-in-the-blank responses in 25 words each:

1. One family tradition I cherish: 2. This I believe: 3. The quality I most admire in myself: 4. The protagonist I most identify with:

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):

During the spring semester, Notre Dame faculty gave 3-Minute Lightning Talks on exciting topics within their fields of expertise. While you don’t have a Ph.D. yet, we bet you’re developing an expertise in something. If you were giving a Lightning Talk, what topic (academic or not) would you choose?
There is a story or meaning behind every name or nickname—both those we’re given and those that we choose. What is meaningful to you about your name?
What would you fight for?

University of Oregon Essay Prompt Choose 1. (500 words max)

Describe an experience with discrimination, whether it was fighting against discrimination or recognizing your contribution to discriminating against a person or group. What did you learn from the experience? In what ways will you bring those lessons to the University of Oregon?
The University of Oregon values difference, and we take pride in our diverse community. Please explain how you will share your experiences, values and interests with our community. In what ways can you imagine offering your support to others?

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 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 Essay Prompt

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 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?

University of Tennessee Essay Prompt

Provide an example of how you’ve demonstrated leadership to make a positive impact in your community (family, work experience, school, community, service efforts, etc.) Describe the impact of your efforts and why it was meaningful to you. (650 words max)
If you were having a personal interview with members of our admissions staff, what information would you want them to know about you? You can include your academic interests, achievements, involvement in school and the community, important personal experiences, obstacles you’ve overcome, and other aspects of your background. (250-800 words)

University of Texas Essay Prompt Essay Topic 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 Required Short Answers (250-300 words each). Answer three short answer prompts:1. Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?

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.

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?
Whether they are constructing a robot, a stronger sense of community or an identity, UVM students are builders. What would you like to build?
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.
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 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.

College of Arts and Sciences – What work of art, music, science, mathematics, literature, or other media has surprised, unsettled, or inspired you, and in what way?
School of Engineering and Applied Sciences – Describe an engineering feat that serves the common good and why it inspires you to study engineering.
School of Architecture – Describe 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 – Discuss experiences that led you to apply to the kinesiology major.

2. Answer one of the following questions in a half page or roughly 250 words.

What’s your favorite word and why?
We are a community with quirks, both in language and in traditions. Describe one of your quirks and why it is part of who you are.
Student self-governance, which encourages student investment and initiative, is a hallmark of the UVA culture. In her fourth year at UVA, Laura Nelson was inspired to create Flash Seminars, one-time classes which facilitate high-energy discussion about thought-provoking topics outside of traditional coursework. If you created a Flash Seminar, what idea would you explore and why?
UVA students paint messages on Beta Bridge when they want to share information with our community. What would you paint on Beta Bridge and why is this your message?
Rita Dove, UVA English professor and former U.S. Poet Laureate, once said in an interview that “…there are times in life when, instead of complaining, you do something about your complaints.” Describe a time when, instead of complaining, you took action for the greater good.

University of Washington Essay Prompt

REQUIRED 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 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 Essay Prompt

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: 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?

Prompt Two: What is the truest thing that you know?

Prompt Three: 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.

Prompt Four: 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?

Prompt Five: 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 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 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. Give us your Top Ten list. Theme:

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.)

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:

Students at Yale have 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 would you ask them to discuss?
You are teaching a new Yale course. What is it called?
Yale students embrace the concept of “and” rather than “or,” pursuing arts and sciences, tradition and innovation, defined goals and surprising detours. What is an example of an “and” that you embrace?

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:

2A. Reflect on a community to which you feel connected. Why is it meaningful to you? You may define community however you like.
2B. Reflect on something that has given you great satisfaction. Why has it been important to you?

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 Essay Prompt

For Spring 2022 and Fall 2022 Applicants : Please respond to the following prompt in 500-750 words: Essay Option 1 : What lessons have you learned from high school that you have applied in your life? How have these lessons further defined your values and character?

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?

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UW Foster MBA Essays: Tips for 2022-2023

UW Foster Essays 2022-2023 — Foster Essay Prompts 2022-2023

This year’s MBA application prompts aren’t out yet, but it’s a good idea to start brainstorming what your topics will be. Wondering where to start, what to write? No worries, we have all the tips you need to get a nice start on writing a quality essay for UW Foster.

At Menlo Coaching, we noticed that most MBA essays will fall into one of a number of categories: personal essays, career goals essays, behavioral essays, etc. Read ahead for our expert guide on approaching these essays for Foster School of Business.

The Career Goals Essay

Tell us your ideas about what lies ahead for you in your career. What are the gaps or deficiencies currently preventing you from pursuing these potential career paths? How do you plan to use your time in the Foster Full-time MBA Program to fill these gaps and advance your career? (upload file, 750 words maximum)

The Behavioral Essay

Tell us about an experience that inspired or confirmed your decision to pursue the MBA. (upload file, 500 words maximum)

Optional Essays

Include this essay if you have additional information you believe would be helpful to the admissions committee in considering your application. (500 words maximum)
We welcome you to share some of the ways you have practiced inclusion, promoted equity or supported the advancement of underrepresented groups. (500 words maximum)

Applying to Foster School of Business

The Foster School of Business “blends experience and professionalism” to create a community of peers who are eager to work and enhance their capabilities in the business world. The class sizes are kept purposely small, enabling closer connections and communication between classmates and the students and faculty. Through the story you relate in your essay, the admissions council is looking to see if you reflect the same values that the school does. UW Foster is looking for students who are entrepreneurial, team-players, and pioneering. The best way to represent that you possess those qualities is through the type of essay you choose to write.

You’re not the only one hoping you’ll have a job after you’ve graduated with your MBA. Admissions committees are looking for students who are motivated and clear in their intentions so that when they get a job post-grad, they’ll be more willing to speak positively of their experience in the program. And, of course, in the hopes that their alumni will earn enough money to become a donor to the school one day.

There are three aspects to the career goals essay:

What you want your future profession to look like.
Why an MBA is necessary to advance your career.
Particularly, why a degree from UW Foster will be most beneficial to you and your job plan.

Your aspirations need to be convincing, ambitious, and realistic. Foster is looking for applicants who have meaningful goals grounded in their past experiences, and it’s important that you relate that notion in your essay, however it applies to your experience in life.

To make it simple: the behavioral essay is meant to show UW Foster that you have developed some sort of leadership skills, what your values are as a leader, and how you are going to most benefit from their development programs.

The admissions committee is looking for applicants that are self-reflective. Whether it’s through a setback you’ve experienced, or how you dealt with situations that have gone awry, the school is looking for students who are resilient and able to learn from their mistakes.

Do not overexaggerate (or underexaggerate!) the situations you decide to write about. Be honest about what happened; Foster is looking for genuine people to join their campus community, and they are less likely to admit an applicant who has overinflated their prior experiences.

Last but not least, make sure to describe what you learned and how you implemented this in a subsequent situation. This is an expected element of the behavioral essay, even if it’s not directly written in the prompt. Prompts that deal with these topics can be daunting, especially when they require you to write about a weakness you have or a failure you’ve experienced.

In addition to these essay types, UW Foster also offers applicants the opportunity to write optional essays to expand on gaps in your resume or other potential weaknesses in your record. Keep in mind that this essay is meant as an addition, so try to keep it short and concise.

Foster also invites applicants to write an optional diversity, equity and inclusion essay , in which you can demonstrate your commitment to diveristy and inclusion, a cornerstone of UW Foster’s mission, as stated on their website:

At the Foster School of Business, we embrace diversity as one of the foundations of both successful business strategy and a world-class educational experience. We share the University’s dedication to promoting the understanding and appreciation of human differences, and the constructive expression of ideas. UW Foster

Writing strong, coherent, genuine stories is an essential part of your MBA application. These essays are meant to help you stand out among many other applicants, so it is worth your time to do the work and write about situations unique to your life and that you truly learned from. Visit our process page to understand how Menlo Coaching can help you with your MBA essays for the Foster School of Business.

UW Foster MBA Program Overview
MBA Essay Tips From 3 Top Admissions Consultants
How to Get Into MBA Programs at Top Business Schools

2023-2024 Common App Essay Prompts

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We are pleased to announce that the Common App essay prompts will remain the same for 2023-2024.

It’s not just for the sake of consistency that we have chosen to keep the essay prompts the same for the upcoming application year. Our past research has shown that overall satisfaction with the prompts exceeded 95% across our constituent groups - students, counselors, advisors, teachers, and member colleges. Moving forward, we want to learn more about who is choosing certain prompts to see if there are any noteworthy differences among student populations.

We know some schools are beginning to have conversations with juniors and transfer students about their college options. As we’ve always said, this is not a call for students to begin writing. We hope that by sharing the prompts now, students will have the time they need to reflect on their own personal stories and begin thinking about what they want to share with colleges. As you assist students with their planning, feel free to share our Common App Ready resource on approaching the essay (in English and Spanish ). You can also visit our YouTube channel to view our breakdown of all 7 Common App essay prompts .

"Moving forward, we want to learn more about who is choosing certain prompts to see if there are any noteworthy differences among student populations." Meredith Lombardi, Director, Education and Training, Common App

Students who are ready to start exploring the application can create their Common App account prior to August 1. With account rollover , we will retain any responses to questions on the Common App tab, including the personal essay.

Below is the full set of essay prompts for 2023-2024.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

We will retain the optional community disruption question within the Writing section. Additionally, we are closely following the Supreme Court case on the use of race in admissions. Depending on the outcome, we stand ready to create resources that will help students speak about their lived experiences.

Common App unveils first group of new member institutions for the 2023–2024 application season

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