Your college application essay is your chance to show who you are beyond grades and test scores. It’s an opportunity to share your story, values, and what makes you unique. Many colleges use essays to understand how you think and what matters most to you.
The Main Essay: Common Application and Coalition Application
Most schools accept applications through the Common Application or the Coalition Application.
Each application offers several prompts to choose from, focusing on your experiences, challenges, or personal growth.
The Common Application’s essay's word count limit is 650 words. The Coalition Application’s word count limit is 500 to 650 words.
Brainstorming Ideas
Start thinking about your essay by asking yourself questions like:
What experiences have shaped who I am?
What challenges have I overcome?
What am I passionate about?
How have I grown or changed over time?
How could I tell a story about an interest or moment that is meaningful to me?
What do I want colleges to know about me that they can’t learn from my grades or test scores?
Jot down ideas, stories, or moments that feel meaningful to you. Your essay doesn’t have to be about a big event. It can be about something small but important.
When to Start
Aim to start brainstorming in the summer before senior year or earlier. This gives you plenty of time to draft, get feedback, and revise.
Supplemental Essays
Some colleges require supplemental essays in addition to the main essay. These are usually shorter and more specific. Common supplemental essay topics are:
Why you want to attend that particular school
How you’ll contribute to the campus community
Make sure to carefully read each college’s application instructions and meet their essay requirements and deadlines.
Final Tips
Be honest and personal, admissions officers want to hear your true voice
Proofread carefully and ask teachers, counselors, peers, or family members for feedback