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The Best and Worst 2025-2026 Common App Essay Prompts

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Did you know that some of the 2025-2026 Common App essay prompts will bring you down like quicksand while others give you the exact structure and framing that you need to show and tell a story that colleges will love?

Before watching my in depth video revealing the best and worst Common App essay prompts, it’s important that you know the seven prompts first-year college applicants have to choose from during the 2025-2026 admissions cycle in order to write one strong Common App essay of up to 650-words. The seven prompt options are:

  1. 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.
  2. 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?
  3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
  4. 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?
  5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
  6. 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?
  7. 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.

Overall, to craft a Common App essay that maximizes your chances of impressing admissions officers, I always recommend starting by choosing a topic that reveals something new, authentic, and unique about you. The essay prompts are ultimately designed to let you show and tell a story only you can show and tell. Reflect deeply on moments that shaped your values, perspective, or growth, whether it’s a small, personal experience (like a conversation that changed your outlook) or a larger challenge (like overcoming a setback). Avoid generic themes like sports victories or mission trips unless you can frame them in a way that’s deeply personal and unexpected. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so specificity—vivid details, emotions, and insights—sets you apart. For example, instead of writing about “leadership,” describe the moment you hesitated before speaking up in a group and what pushing past that fear taught you.

Once you’ve picked a story, focus on showing rather than telling for at least half the essay. Use sensory details and dialogue to pull readers into the scene, letting your personality shine through your voice. If you’re writing about, say, a family tradition, don’t just say it was meaningful; describe the smell of the food, the sound of laughter, or the awkward silence when someone brought up a tough topic. This paints a picture that feels alive and lets your character emerge naturally. Avoid overloading the essay with objective achievements (especially if you shared details about them elsewhere in your app); your activities list already covers those. Instead, use the essay to reveal what drives you, what you wrestle with, or how you’ve evolved. Admissions officers want to see self-awareness, not perfection, so don’t shy away from vulnerability if it’s honest – like admitting you didn’t have all the answers in a tough moment.

Structure matters too, but it doesn’t need to be rigid. A strong essay often follows a clear arc: set the scene, explore the experience, and reflect on its impact. Spend the first forty percent drawing readers in with a compelling hook and context, the next twenty to forty percent diving into the heart of the story, and the final twenty to forty percent connecting it to your broader perspective or lessons learned. Reflection is key; admissions officers look for evidence you’ve grown or learned something meaningful. For instance, if you write about failing at a project, don’t end with “I worked harder next time;” instead, dig into how that failure reshaped your approach to collaboration or risk. Keep it concise! Every sentence should earn its place. Aim for 625 words minimum.

Resist the urge to write what you think colleges want to read. Admissions officers can spot inauthenticity a mile away, so don’t force a “perfect” narrative or mimic sample essays. Write in your own voice, whether it’s witty, introspective, or straightforward. Let your essay sound like you. Get feedback, but not too much; one or two trusted readers (a teacher, counselor, or mentor) can help refine clarity and impact without diluting your style. Revise multiple drafts to polish phrasing and flow, reading aloud to catch awkward spots. If you’re stuck, free write or engage in a fire writing excersice without judgment to uncover what matters most to you. The goal isn’t to dazzle with big words or drama but to leave officers feeling like they know you—and want you in their community.

I also recommend aligning your essay with the rest of your application without repeating it. If your activities list screams “robotics nerd,” your essay could explore a quieter side, like your love for teaching younger kids to code. This adds depth, showing you’re multidimensional. Check each college’s supplemental essays too; some schools ask for similar prompts, so ensure your Common App essay doesn’t overlap too much. Proofread obsessively for typos. A great essay won’t overcome weak grades or test scores, but it can tip the scales by making you memorable. Write something you’re proud of, something that captures who you are right now, and remember this is your chance to speak directly to the people deciding your future.

In the below thirty-minute in-depth video I grade and rank each of the seven Common App essay prompts in order to help you determine which will give you the best chance of positively differentiating your Common App and thus giving you the best chance to get into the colleges on your list.

Sit back, relax (though be ready to take notes), and enjoy this insider’s guide tackling the most important essay assignment of your life so far!

For more expert guidance as you complete your Common App essay, make sure to read or watch the articles/videos linked below.

The Stats You Need: Most Popular & Least Popular Common App Essay Prompts

Common App Essay: Size Does Matter

Why Your College Application Essay is So Bad

Why Your College Application Essay is Awful

Ultimate College Application Essay Brainstorm

Secret to a Successful College Application Essay First Draft

Mind the gaps on your Common App essay!

And when you’ve finished your Common App and want to know if it’s as strong as possible and whether or not, in its current condition, your chances of admission are impressive, inconclusive, or inadequate, you need My Pre-Read.

Good luck!

Don’t submit your Common App until you…

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Many high school seniors race to submit their college applications in the days right before their deadlines. Sad to say, most high school seniors completing the Common App, even those submitting their apps by early deadlines, make a lot of mistakes that reduce their chances of admission.

The most frequent – and unnecessary – mistakes that I see from students that you need to avoid making include:

1. Neglecting the Quality of the Essay: Students might rush their Common App essay, leading to generic responses or missed opportunities to showcase their unique voice and experiences.

2. Sharing Incomplete or Inaccurate Information: Errors in personal information, such as contact details, dates, or academic history, can create confusion or lead to the disqualification of your application from admissions consideration at highly selective colleges.

3. Overlooking Specificity/Fit in Supplemental Essays: Failing to pay attention to specific prompts for individual colleges or submitting poorly recycled essays from other supplements can hurt students’ chances.

4. Ignoring Word Limits: Many students exceed word limits on essays and don’t even notice that all of their essay didn’t pate into the app! Or students fail to fully utilize the space available, missing the chance to elaborate on key points. As I’ve written before, on your Common App essay, size does matter!

5. Making Formatting Mistakes: Submitting essays or materials with inconsistent formatting, such inconsistent indentations (just use block paragraphs) or extra spacing issues, can be distracting and appear unprofessional.

6. Neglecting Extracurricular Activities: Underrepresenting or failing to explain the significance of extracurricular activities can diminish an applicant’s profile and not submitting a full extracurricular résumé when and where possible.

7. Having a Lack of Specificity/Humanity Overall: Writing vague responses about interests, experiences, or goals can make an application less compelling. Colleges want to see specific examples and insights. SHOW as much if not more than you TELL – not just on the essays, but also on the Activities page and other parts of the app where you squeeze in details about your accomplishments. The more generic an application becomes the more I find it will rely on overused phrases or topics that can make the whole thing feel unoriginal and cliché. I’ll throw into this category relying on artificial intelligence (AI) to write your essays for you! Admissions offices are increasingly willing and able to use AI detectors when assessing essays.

8. Missing Deadlines: Some students mismanage time and miss critical deadlines for submissions, recommendations, or tests.

9. Failing to Edit and Proofread: Simple typos, grammatical errors, or awkward phrasing can detract from the overall impression of the application.

10. Disregarding Instructions/Prompts: Ignoring specific requirements or guidelines outlined by the college can lead to incomplete applications. For example, an increasing number of colleges require additional materials beyond the common portion of the Common App (such as a completed Courses & Grades section on the Common App or the SRAR post-submission of the Common App).

11. Forgetting to Confirm Recommendations: Students sometimes forget to ensure that recommenders submit their letters on time or don’t follow up with them.

Yet, as bad as all these faux pas are, these ugly eleven mistakes are really just hit-and-run summaries and the tip of the iceberg. In the below videos, I share valuable information that builds upon the eleven no-no’s mentioned above. This is information that you must know and think about carefully before you submit the Common App to one or more colleges on your list so you can give yourself the very best chances of admission.

And remember, when you’ve finished your Common App and you want to know if it’s as strong as possible and whether or not, in its current condition, your chances of admission are impressive, inconclusive, or inadequate, you consider getting My Pre-Read.

Good luck!

12. Biggest Common App Mistake Even Smart Students Make

13. Beware of Ghost Essays on the Common App

14. Mind the Gaps in Your Common App Essay

15. Accentuate Your Honors on the Common App Education Page

16. How to Hide and Reveal Your Scores on the Common App

17. Why Sample “Successful” Common App Essays Actually Suck

18. Best & Worst Common App Essay Prompts

19. Most and Least Popular Common App Essay Prompts

20. Should I respond to the “Community disruptions such as COVID-19” prompt?

21. What GPA Should I Report on the Common App?

22. What Your Essay Is So Bad

23. Why Your Essay Is Awful

24. Secret to a Successful First Draft Essay

25. How to Conclude a “Why” This College Essay

The Role of Arts in Educational (and Admissions) Success

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Incorporating the arts into education is not just about learning to draw or play music; it’s about creating a richer, more holistic approach to education that can significantly enhance students’ academic and personal development. Arts integration serves as a catalyst for creativity and innovation, helping students to develop a suite of skills that are crucial in today’s diversified and fast-paced world. 

Improving Academic Performance
Engagement in the arts has been linked to improved academic performance. Studies have shown that students who participate in arts education often achieve higher grades and perform better on standardized tests than their peers who do not. This improvement is attributed to the arts’ ability to enhance cognitive abilities such as memory and attention to detail. Furthermore, arts integration can make learning more dynamic and enjoyable, which helps students stay motivated and engaged with their studies, contributing to better academic outcomes overall.

Enhancing Creative Thinking
Arts education is vital for developing creative thinking, a crucial skill in today’s innovation-driven economy. Educators trained through MAT programs are particularly skilled at integrating arts into the curriculum, which enhances creativity among students. These programs equip teachers with diverse, innovative methods to incorporate visual arts, music, and drama into lessons, encouraging students to think creatively and approach problems from new perspectives. The exposure to arts through education not only boosts creativity but also prepares students for creative problem-solving in various career paths.

Building Emotional Intelligence
The arts also play a crucial role in developing emotional intelligence. Activities such as music, drama, and visual arts provide students with ways to express their feelings and empathize with others. This emotional outlet is vital for young people, helping them to understand and articulate their emotions in a healthy and constructive manner. Moreover, arts education teaches students to interpret and react to different perspectives, fostering greater empathy and interpersonal skills that are valuable both inside and outside the classroom.

Encouraging Cultural Awareness
Through exposure to different art forms, students gain insights into various cultures and historical periods, broadening their understanding of the world. Arts education exposes them to a diverse range of cultural expressions and traditions, enhancing their cultural sensitivity and appreciation for differences. This increased awareness is crucial in today’s globalized society, where understanding and respecting cultural diversity are key to successful interpersonal relationships and professional success.

Completing College Applications
Exposure to the arts in high school can significantly benefit the college application process. A student’s experiences with the arts can help the student craft a compelling personal story in his or her application essays. Whether it’s overcoming challenges through creative expression or developing a unique perspective, these experiences can make a college application stand out. Meanwhile, involvement in the arts can enhance one’s extracurricular resume. Activities such as performing in theater, participating in art shows, or playing in a band reflect dedication and achievement beyond academics. In addition, teachers and mentors from the arts can offer powerful letters of recommendation. These letters can speak to a student’s creativity, work ethic, and personal growth, offering a different perspective than academic recommendations. The arts also cultivate valuable skills like creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. These skills are not only beneficial for a student’s chosen field of study but also demonstrate an applicant’s ability to contribute to a diverse and dynamic college community. Especially for specialized programs or schools with strong arts programs, showcasing one’s talent through a portfolio, audition, or performance can be a key factor in the admission process. Potentially most important, art-related experiences can provide rich material for one’s personal statement or essays. Discussing how the arts have influenced one’s goals, values, or personal growth can help create a memorable and impactful narrative. Finally, the arts often encourage a unique way of thinking and problem-solving. Demonstrating how these experiences have shaped one’s worldview can differentiate an applicant from other applicants and show how the applicant will bring a fresh perspective to the college community.

Developing Motor Skills in Young Learners
For younger students, engaging in the arts can be especially beneficial for motor skill development. Fine motor skills are enhanced through activities like cutting, sketching, and handling art materials, while gross motor skills are developed through dance and performance arts. These activities help improve hand-eye coordination and overall physical coordination, which are important for academic tasks such as writing and using a computer, as well as for daily activities outside of school.

Fostering Teamwork and Collaboration
Participating in the arts, particularly in group settings like theater productions or band performances, naturally cultivates teamwork and collaboration skills. Students learn to work together, share ideas, and support one another to achieve a common goal. This cooperative learning environment teaches important social skills such as communication, patience, and flexibility. These skills are essential for personal and professional success, as most fields require teamwork and the ability to work harmoniously with others.

Arts as a Means of Expression
The arts provide a powerful outlet for personal expression and communication. Whether it’s through painting, writing, or performing, arts education allows students to explore and convey their thoughts, feelings, and ideas creatively. This form of expression is crucial for developing a strong sense of self and emotional well-being. It also encourages students to engage with their education more deeply, often leading to enhanced motivation and a stronger connection to their studies.

Enhancing Problem-Solving Abilities
The process of creating art involves constant decision-making and problem-solving. Whether it’s figuring out how to depict a particular emotion in a drama class or resolving how to blend colors in a painting, students are often faced with challenges that require innovative solutions. This nurtures critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills, which are highly valued in any career. Engaging with the arts teaches students to approach problems with an open mind and explore multiple solutions, a skill set that is applicable in many aspects of life.

Supporting At-Risk Students
Arts programs have been shown to particularly benefit at-risk students by providing an alternative way to succeed in an educational setting. For students who might struggle with traditional academic subjects, the arts offer a way to excel in something tangible and rewarding. This success can boost self-esteem and motivation, which are often critical in keeping at-risk students engaged in school. Moreover, the inclusive nature of arts education helps bridge gaps for students who might feel disconnected from the mainstream school environment.

Integrating Technology with Arts Education
Incorporating technology into arts education is another area where tech experts can significantly enhance learning. Digital tools and resources can expand the possibilities within the arts, from graphic design software and digital music platforms to virtual reality environments that allow for immersive experiences. These technologies not only make arts education more accessible and diverse but also align it more closely with industry standards and practices, preparing students for modern careers in the arts and beyond.

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The role of arts in education is multifaceted, providing not just skills in creativity and expression but also enhancing personal development and academic success across a variety of measures. From improving teamwork and problem-solving skills to supporting at-risk students and integrating cutting-edge technologies, arts education is a critical component of a comprehensive educational program. By fostering a diverse array of skills and promoting a deep engagement with learning, the arts play a crucial role in preparing students for a successful future in an increasingly complex world.

For Whom The Bell Tolls: UCAS Personal Statement Edition

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The UCAS Personal Statement is being put out to pasture by the powers that be in UK higher education – and for better or worse (depending on one’s perspective) this is going to be a long goodbye: the replacement for the UCAS Personal Statement isn’t slated to debut until Fall 2025 (for those applying for 2026 admission).

For those who don’t know, the UCAS Personal Statement has been a crucial part of the application process for undergraduate admissions to universities in the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland for years. UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is the central organization that manages applications to higher education courses in the UK. For those more familiar with applying to college in the US, UCAS is functionally equivalent to the Common App.

The UCAS Personal Statement has served as an applicant’s opportunity to tell universities and colleges why he or she is applying to a particular course and why he or she should be offered a place. It allows an applicant to demonstrate his or her enthusiasm, qualifications, skills, and experience relevant to the course. Strong statements have typically included information such as:

    • An applicant’s reasons for choosing the course and institution.
    • Relevant academic achievements and qualifications (including predicted grades if applicable).
    • Work experience or placements related to the subject area.
    • Extracurricular activities, hobbies, and interests that demonstrate relevant skills.
    • Personal qualities, skills, and achievements that make the applicant suitable for the course.

While there has been no strict format, an applicant’s Personal Statement generally includes an introduction, a main body where the applicant details his or her academic background and experiences, and a conclusion that summarizes why the applicant is a suitable candidate. UCAS suggests a maximum of 4,000 characters or 47 lines of text (including spaces and blank lines). This equates to around 500-800 words. The Personal Statement is a significant part of a student’s application alongside his or her academic qualifications. It allows a student to differentiate himself or herself from other applicants with similar grades. It has always been important to draft and redraft a statement, ensuring it’s clear, focused, and free from errors. The UCAS Personal Statement has been submitted electronically as part of an applicant’s UCAS application, typically by the application deadline, which is usually in mid-January for most undergraduate courses starting in September.

But, starting with the Fall 2025 admissions process (for those applying for 2026 entry), the Personal Statement is getting the hook!

According to UCAS, “Personal statements are changing from one longer piece of text to three separate sections, each with a different question to help shape the focus for students’ answers. Each section will have a minimum character count of 350 characters, which is clearly labelled on the question boxes, along with an overall character counter, to ensure students know if they’re on track. The new web page for submitting the personal statement will also feature helpful on-page guidance for each question.”

The new short answer questions developed for students who are increasingly challenged when it comes to attention span and writing skills are as follows:

  1. Why do you want to study this course or subject?
  2. How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
  3. What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

While the content of the personal statement will remain broadly the same, it will be split across three sections rather than one longer piece of text.

New Duke Essay Prompt Fumbles “Fitting In” Again

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Duke University has released its 2024-2025 supplemental essay prompts for first-year applicants, and for the second year in a row, a prompt about “fitting in” fails the clarity test.

Overall, Duke updated only one of its supplemental short essay prompts for applicants to its Class of 2029.

The following question continues to be required for all first-year applicants to Duke during the 2024-2025 admissions cycle:

What is your sense of Duke as a university and a community, and why do you consider it a good match for you? If there’s something in particular about our offerings that attracts you, feel free to share that as well. (250 word limit) *RETURNING FROM LAST CYCLE*

Meanwhile, the following prompts are optional, but applicants can only respond to one or two of the below prompts. Students should only respond to one or two of these prompts if they believe that doing so will add something meaningful that is not already shared elsewhere in their applications:

A. We believe a wide range of viewpoints, beliefs, and lived experiences are essential to maintaining Duke as a vibrant and meaningful living and learning community. Feel free to share with us anything in this context that might help us better understand you and what you might bring to our community. *RETURNING FROM LAST CYCLE*

B. Tell us about an experience in the past year or two that reflects your imagination, creativity, or intellect. *RETURNING FROM LAST CYCLE*

C. We believe there is benefit in sharing or 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? *RETURNING FROM LAST CYCLE*

D. Duke’s commitment to inclusion and belonging includes sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Feel free to share with us more about how your identity in this context has meaning for you as an individual or as a member of a community. *RETURNING FROM LAST CYCLE*

E. We recognize that not fully “fitting in” a community or place can sometimes be difficult. Duke values the effort, resilience, and independence that may require. Feel free to share with us circumstances where something about you is different and how that’s influenced your experiences or identity. *NEW THIS CYCLE*

Option “E” above is new for this admissions cycle. It replaces the following prompt, which appeared last admissions cycle:

We recognize that “fitting in” in all the contexts we live in can sometimes be difficult. Duke values all kinds of differences and believes they make our community better. Feel free to tell us any ways in which you’re different, and how that has affected you or what it means to you. *DISCONTINUED FROM LAST CYCLE*

The problem with last year’s prompt is that students could respond to it by focusing exclusively on their racial status, which The Supreme Court of the United States explicitly ruled can’t be considered by colleges when making admissions decisions. Though Duke tried to qualify the first two sentences of last year’s prompt with a third sentence meant to inspire applicants to discuss how what makes them different has changed them or what it means to them, it’s likely that far too few applicants took the hint. So, this year, Duke has adjusted the prompt to lead students’ responses to focus more on how difference has caused them to exert effort and/or demonstrate resilience or independence.

Chief Justice John Roberts’ majority opinion last year included this critical paragraph:

“At the same time, as all parties agree, nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise. See, e.g., 4 App. in No. 21–707, at 1725–1726, 1741; Tr. of Oral Arg. in No. 20–1199, at 10. But, despite the dissent’s assertion to the contrary, universities may not simply establish through application essays or other means the regime we hold unlawful today. (A dissenting opinion is generally not the best source of legal advice on how to comply with the majority opinion.) “[W]hat cannot be done directly cannot be done indirectly. The Constitution deals with substance, not shadows,” and the prohibition against racial discrimination is “levelled at the thing, not the name.” Cummings v. Missouri, 4 Wall. 277, 325 (1867). A benefit to a student who overcame racial discrimination, for example, must be tied to that student’s courage and determination. Or a benefit to a student whose heritage or culture motivated him or her to assume a leadership role or attain a particular goal must be tied to that student’s unique ability to contribute to the university. In other words, the student must be treated based on his or her experiences as an individual—not on the basis of race. Many universities have for too long done just the opposite. And in doing so, they have concluded, wrongly, that the touchstone of an individual’s identity is not challenges bested, skills built, or lessons learned but the color of their skin. Our constitutional history does not tolerate that choice.”

Most admissions offices were instructed by legal counsel (or by superiors and/or consulting firms that consulted with legal counsel) that Roberts’ opinion left the door open to considering applicants’ “racial experiences” even if colleges are no longer able to consider applicants’ “racial statuses.” So, by directing applicants to focus on characteristics developed as a result of being different, Duke is better comporting this new optional supplemental essay prompt with the rule of law. Yet, the last sentence of the new prompt (Feel free to share with us circumstances where something about you is different and how that’s influenced your experiences or identity.) undermines the effort by being clunky at best and grammatically incorrect, too wordy, and pretty incoherent at worst.

“Circumstances” are not a place; therefore, “where” should be “in which.” It’s likely that “where” is referencing the “community or place” mentioned in the first sentence of the prompt, but if so, the last sentence of the prompt should read “Feel free to share with us a community or place where something about you is different…”

Similarly, “is” in the last sentence of the prompt implies at present; yet, for a student to accurately reflect on how he or she exerted effort and/or demonstrated resilience or independence, he or she would have to reflect on something that’s happened in the past even if it’s also ongoing in the present.

Finally, the “…and how that’s influenced your experiences or identity.” conclusion to the prompt is confusing. If the applicant is already writing about a way in which his or her identity has required him or her to exert effort and/or demonstrate resilience or independence in order fit into a community or place, in most cases one one would expect that the student was trying to have the community NOT influence his or her identity too much, so there may be limited growth related to that identity, though there could be growth or influence experienced that the student could refer to in other ways. But that opens up a whole additional can of worms and there are just not enough words with which to work to really flesh things out. What a mess!

I’m surprised that Duke admissions leadership and its counsel didn’t try to make this a bit easer for seventeen- and eighteen-year-olds to digest. While there are fewer words in this year’s version of this prompt compared to last year’s version of this prompt, it could have been streamlined and shortened even more for brevity and clarity. As the song goes:

‘Tis the gift to be simple, ’tis the gift to be free,‘Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,And when we find ourselves in the place just right,‘Twill be in the valley of love and delight.

I’ve got to believe very few applicants to Duke this year will feel as though they are in the valley of love and delight when tackling Duke’s newest optional essay prompt. Many students will likely skip this prompt all together, as compared to the other optional prompts this one is quite convoluted. With that in mind, I suggest the powers that be at Duke consider this rewrite for next year (if they want to keep this type of prompt at all):

We recognize that “fitting in” can sometimes be difficult. Duke values the effort, resilience, and independence that may require. Discuss a time when “fitting in” influenced your experience or identity and describe how.

I believe the prompt proposed above would be legally sound and more comprehensible for students, thus resulting in more focused and specific responses, but what do I know?

Earlier this year, Duke University revealed that, at least for the 2023-2024 undergraduate admissions cycle for first-year applicants, it no longer gave essays and standardized test scores numerical ratings.

I wish all applicants to Duke’s Class of 2029 – and the Duke admissions officers tasked with reading applicants’ responses to these essay prompts – the very best of luck!

Caltech releases its 2024-2025 supplemental essay prompts for first-year applicants

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Caltech, hot on the heels of announcing that it will require first-year applicants to report ACT or SAT scores in order to be considered for Caltech’s Class of 2029, has now released its supplemental essay prompts for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle. While a number of short essays are options, Caltech also requires first-year applicants to respond to several prompts.

Located in Pasadena, California, Caltech benefits from its proximity to major research institutions, high-tech companies, and cultural attractions in the Los Angeles area. This location can provide students with amazing, varied, and unique opportunities for internships, networking, and social activities. Caltech is also known for its unique academic culture, characterized by collaboration, curiosity-driven research, and a focus on solving complex problems. Students who thrive in a challenging and intellectually stimulating environment often find Caltech to be a perfect fit. Most importantly, Caltech faculty members are leaders in their fields, and undergraduates have the opportunity to work closely with them on cutting-edge research projects. This hands-on experience can be invaluable for students looking to pursue graduate studies or enter industry.

When a first-year applicant applies to Caltech through the Common App or QuestBridge application, the student will also submit the Caltech Specific Questions (for QuestBridge applicants, these questions come if the student becomes a Match Finalist and he or she has ranked Caltech). The essays are an opportunity for first-year applicants to share more about themselves in their unique voice.  While there are no right or wrong answers, Caltech does share the following advice with prospective undergraduates before they set out to complete their supplemental writing for Caltech:

  • Remember, Caltech is an unapologetic STEM institution. Literally, there is no way to write about too much STEM in your supplemental questions. So lean all the way in on the STEMiest of STEMmy topics (yep, those are made-up words but totally appropriate). Review our What We Look For page before you get started.
  • Faculty at Caltech review files of the most competitive applicants. So don’t worry that your science won’t make sense to a lay-person because our faculty with PhDs conducting research that will change the world will understand what you’re saying. We promise.
  • If there is anything important about who you are, what you’ve done, or how you’ve experienced your life – we want to know about it. Holistic review means whole person review. We’re here for whatever you want to share.

While Caltech is of course a school that attracts the best and brightest STEM students from around the world, it’s also an institution that clearly wants such students to be able to communicate well in English in their applications. For the vast majority of applicants using the Common App to apply to Caltech, the 650-word Common App essay is already a huge challenge. The fact that Caltech gives such applicants the chance to write 1,500 more words in response to the prompts below should act as a big heads up to each first-year applicant that he or she shouldn’t just be substantively qualified to succeed at Caltech. He or she must also be prepared to make an articulate and compelling case for his or her admission to Caltech throughout his or her overall application.

All Fall 2025 applicants are also encouraged to review Caltech’s guidelines on the ethical use of AI before submitting their supplemental essays.

Required STEM Academic Interest Question

Caltech has a rigorous core curriculum and students don’t declare a major until the end of their first year. However, some students arrive knowing which academic fields and areas already most excite them, or which novel fields and areas they most want to explore.

If you had to choose an area of interest or two today, what would you choose?

*Note that you are under no obligation to follow this choice if admitted.

Why did you choose your proposed area of interest? If you selected ‘other’, what topics are you interested in pursuing? (Min: 100 / Max: 200 words)

Required Short Answer Questions

STEM Curiosity Question

Regardless of your STEM interest listed above, take this opportunity to nerd out and talk to us about whatever STEM rabbit hole you have found yourself falling into. Be as specific or broad as you would like. (Min: 50 / Max: 150 words)

STEM Experiences Questions

At Caltech, we investigate some of the most challenging, fundamental problems in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. We are interested in learning more about your engagement with STEM.

Please share two STEM-related experiences:

  1. Tell us how you initially found your interest and passion for science or any STEM topic, and how you have pursued or developed this interest or passion over time. (Min: 100 / Max: 200 words)
  2. Tell us about a STEM-related experience from the last few years and share how and why it inspired your curiosity. (Min: 100 / Max: 200 words)

Creativity Question

The creativity, inventiveness, and innovation of Caltech’s students, faculty, and researchers have won Nobel Prizes and put rovers on Mars. But Techers also imagine smaller-scale innovations every day, from new ways to design solar cells to how to 3D-print dorm decor to experimenting in the kitchen. How have you been a creator, inventor, or innovator in your own life? (Min: 200 / Max: 250 words)

Caltech Values Question

Caltech’s values include respect for a diversity of thoughts and ideas. How have you cultivated this value in your own life? (Min: 50 / Max: 200 words)

Optional Short Answer Questions

We know, we know … you see optional and start to wonder if we mean it. But in this section, we truly do! See these as completely optional opportunities to show us more of your personality.

Optional. We promise.

  1. If there are aspects of your life or social or personal identity that you feel are not captured elsewhere in this application, please tell us about them below. (Max: 150 words)
  2. When not surveying the stars, peering through microscopes, or running through coding marathons, Caltech students pursue an eclectic array of interests that range from speed-cubing, reading, yoga, playing musical instruments and theater arts, to solving puzzles, hiking, painting, and building or inventing new gadgets. We understand that everyone needs an outlet or two. What is a favorite interest or hobby, and why does it bring you joy? (Max: 200 words)
  3. Did you have a hard time narrowing it down to just one interest or hobby? We understand – Caltech students like to stay busy, too. Tell us about another hobby or interest! (Max: 150 words)

Optional Academic Short Answer Questions

OPTIONAL: Have you had any extenuating circumstances (such as limited course selection or disruptions), that have affected your coursework, but that are not described elsewhere in your application? If so, tell us about them here.

University of Chicago 2024-2025 Essay Prompts as Creative as Ever

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University of Chicago has revealed its 2024-2025 admissions cycle supplemental essay prompts, and they’re as distinctive as ever before.

The first essay first-year applicants must respond to is the relatively staid “Why UChicago” essay prompt that has been around for a while:

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.

While there is no formal word count limit on applicants’ responses to the prompt above, one page single-spaced should be more than enough.

Then, depending on one’s perspective, things either go off a cliff or get really exciting because University of Chicago asks first-year applicants to complete one more essay (again with no defined word-count limit) in response to one of the following new prompts for those seeking admission into University of Chicago’s undergraduate Class of 2029:

Essay Option 1: We’re all familiar with green-eyed envy or feeling blue, but what about being “caught purple-handed”? Or “tickled orange”? Give an old color-infused expression a new hue and tell us what it represents.
– Inspired by Ramsey Bottorff, Class of 2026

Essay Option 2: “Ah, but I was so much older then / I’m younger than that now” – Bob Dylan. In what ways do we become younger as we get older?
– Inspired by Joshua Harris, Class of 2016

Essay Option 3: Pluto, the demoted planet. Ophiuchus, the thirteenth Zodiac. Andy Murray, the fourth to tennis’s Big Three. Every grouping has something that doesn’t quite fit in. Tell us about a group and its unofficial member, why (or why not) should it be excluded?
– Inspired by Veronica Chang, Class of 2022

Essay Option 4: “Daddy-o”, “Far Out”, “Gnarly”: the list of slang terms goes on and on. Sadly, most of these aren’t so “fly” anymore – “as if!” Name an outdated slang from any decade or language that you’d bring back and explain why you totally “dig it.”
– Inspired by Napat Sakdibhornssup, Class of 2028

Essay Option 5: How many piano tuners are there in Chicago? What is the total length of chalk used by UChicago professors in a year? How many pages of books are in the Regenstein Library? These questions are among a class of estimation problems named after University of Chicago physicist Enrico Fermi. Create your own Fermi estimation problem, give it your best answer, and show us how you got there.
– Inspired by Malhar Manek, Class of 2028

The sixth option for an applicant’s second essay is the following catch all:

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!

Of course, UChicago first-year applicants must also complete the Common App essay.

Also new for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, University of Chicago has a no-harm testing policy regardless of whether applicants take advantage of the university’s Early Decision I (November 1 deadline), Early Action (November 1 deadline), Early Decision II (January 6 deadline), or Regular Decision (January 6 deadline) admissions plans.

While University of Chicago has yet to publish its Class of 2028 Profile, its Class of 2027 Profile indicates that 38,800 students applied, 1,849 students were accepted, and 1,626 matriculated into the university from the start to the finish of the 2022-2023 admissions cycle.

More Thoughts About the University of Chicago Supplemental Essay Prompts:

What Do Actual University of Chicago Students Love About Their University? We Asked:

University of Chicago Introduces Exclusive Very Early Decision (EVED)

Tips for Navigating the College Admissions Process

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Navigating the college admissions process can be a daunting task for students and their families. With so many steps and important deadlines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. 

However, with proper planning and preparation, you can streamline this process and increase your chances of gaining admission to your desired college. Today, I’ll share practical tips to help you successfully navigate the college admissions process.

1. Start Early

One of the most important pieces of advice for navigating the college admissions process is to start early. Begin your college search and preparation well before your senior year of high school. Ideally, you should start seriously thinking about college in your freshman year or sophomore year of high school.

Create a timeline that includes all the important dates and deadlines. This timeline should cover standardized test dates, application deadlines, and financial aid deadlines. Having a clear schedule will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t miss any critical steps.

2. Research Different Programs and Schools

Early research is also crucial. Start exploring different colleges and universities to understand what they offer and what you’re looking for in a college experience. Consider factors such as location, size, academic programs, campus culture, and extracurricular opportunities. Starting early gives you ample time to make informed decisions and reduces the pressure as deadlines approach.

Thoroughly researching different programs and schools is essential for finding the best fit for your interests and career goals both short-term and long-term. Look into a diversity of colleges and universities to see which ones offer the programs you’re interested in or to learn about programs you didn’t even know existed.

For example, while researching undergraduate business degrees you may find that some colleges on your list also offer undergraduate degrees in human resources management, while many others don’t offer such an undergraduate program. This could inspire you to pursue human resources management as an undergraduate and an MBA later on. Alternatively, discovering the world of HR as a high schooler may motivate you to pursue your undergraduate degree in another business discipline like accounting, marketing, or management before ultimately pursuing a masters in HR online after earning your undergraduate degree.

Talk to current students or alumni to get their perspective on the programs and the overall college experience. This firsthand information can provide valuable insights that aren’t always available on official websites. 

3. Understand Admission Requirements

Understanding the admission requirements for each college you’re interested in is crucial. Most colleges have specific criteria that applicants must meet, including GPA, standardized test scores, and application essays. Make sure you know the requirements for each school on your list and strive to meet or exceed them.

Gather all necessary documents early, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any required forms. Keeping these documents organized and easily accessible will save you time and reduce stress as deadlines approach. Some colleges may also require portfolios, auditions, or additional materials for specific programs, so be sure to check each school’s requirements carefully.

Understanding admission requirements also means knowing what the college values in its applicants. Some schools place a high emphasis on extracurricular activities, community service, or leadership experience. Tailor your application to highlight your strengths in these areas and show how you align with the college’s values and mission.

4. Prepare for Standardized Tests

Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT play a significant role in the college admissions process. Preparing for these tests can greatly impact your scores and improve your chances of admission. Start by familiarizing yourself with the format and content of the tests.

Create a study schedule that allows you to cover all the necessary material without cramming. Use study guides, practice tests, and online resources to reinforce your understanding and improve your test-taking skills. Consider enrolling in a prep course or working with a tutor if you need additional support.

Taking the tests early and multiple times can also be beneficial. Many students find that their scores improve with each attempt as they become more comfortable with the test format and identify areas for improvement. Make sure to register for the tests well in advance and take advantage of any available test dates that fit into your schedule.

5. Craft a Strong Personal Statement/Essay

The personal statement, which in most cases takes the form of the Common App essay for those applying to college in the USA, is a critical component of your college application. It provides an opportunity for you to showcase your personality, experiences, and aspirations to the admissions committee. A well-crafted personal statement can make a significant difference in how your application is perceived.

Start by brainstorming ideas for your personal statement. Reflect on your experiences, challenges, and achievements, and think about how they have shaped you. Choose a topic that allows you to tell a compelling story and highlight your unique qualities.

When writing your personal statement, be authentic and sincere. Admissions committees are looking for genuine insight into who you are, not just a list of accomplishments. Use vivid examples and specific details to illustrate your points and make your essay memorable.

After drafting your personal statement, take the time to revise and refine it. Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or family members, and be open to constructive criticism. A polished, well-written personal statement can leave a lasting impression and strengthen your overall application.

6. Gather Strong Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are an important part of the college application process. They provide insight into your character, achievements, and potential from the perspective of teachers, mentors, or employers who know you well. These letters can significantly impact your application, so it’s important to approach this task thoughtfully.

Start by identifying individuals who can write strong, detailed letters of recommendation. Choose people who have worked closely with you and can speak to your strengths and accomplishments. Typically, teachers from your junior or senior year, coaches, or supervisors from internships or jobs are good options.

When asking for a recommendation, do so before the deadline. This allows your recommenders sufficient time to write you a thoughtful letter. Give them all important information, such as your resume, a list of your accomplishments, and details about the colleges you’re applying to. This information can help them make your letter specific so it aligns with each college’s values.

Key Takeaway

Navigating the college admissions process can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. Remember that each step in the process is an opportunity to showcase your strengths and align your goals with the right college. Stay proactive, seek guidance when needed, and maintain a positive mindset. 

With thorough preparation and a strategic approach, you can confidently navigate the admissions process and take a significant step toward achieving your educational and career aspirations.

7 Important Ways to Stand Out in Your College Admissions Application

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Applying to college can feel like a daunting process. With so many qualified candidates, how can you make sure your application stands out? Here are seven crucial strategies to enhance your college admissions application and increase your chances of getting into your dream school.

1. Write a Non-Traditional College Essay

The college essay is your chance to showcase your personality and unique experiences. To truly stand out, consider these non-traditional approaches:

Personal Identity and Background

Share how your cultural heritage, family traditions, or community involvement have shaped who you are.

Example: One student, writing for Harvard, detailed her experience growing up as a “Germerican” after moving from the US to Germany at a young age. She used this bicultural identity to highlight her unique perspective and how it shaped her understanding of cultural integration and belonging.

Overcoming a Significant Challenge

Share a story about overcoming a significant obstacle in your life. Focus on what you learned from the experience and how it has prepared you for college.

Example: A student shared his journey of recovering from a sports injury that threatened his athletic career. This story highlighted his resilience and passion for overcoming adversity, ultimately showing how this experience prepared him for future challenges.

Eureka Moments

Describe a moment of intellectual discovery or personal growth. This could be a time when you changed your perspective or learned something profound about yourself or the world.

Example: Another essay, known as the “Burying Grandma” essay, depicted a student’s realization about the importance of emotional support in healthcare, inspired by the loss of her grandmother. This epiphany led her to volunteer at a cancer treatment center, shaping her desire to become an oncologist​.

Unique Hobbies and Passions

Explore a unique hobby or passion project. Explain how it has influenced your personal development and what it reveals about your character.

Example: A student wrote about their passion for vintage film photography. The student explained how this hobby clarified the importance of patience, attention to detail, and preserving memories, which added depth to to the student’s character and interests​. 

By choosing a unique angle and providing deep, personal insights, your essay will captivate admissions officers and make your application memorable. Get inspired and check out this long list of college essay ideas and topics. 

2. Take AP Classes

Advanced Placement (AP) classes demonstrate your ability to handle college-level coursework. They show admissions officers that you’re serious about your education and willing to challenge yourself. Here are some tips:

  • Choose Wisely: Select AP classes that align with your intended major or areas of interest. Check out Empowerly’s ranking of AP classes by difficulty to make informed decisions.
  • Perform Well: Strive for high scores on AP exams to validate your efforts and readiness for college academics.
  • Highlight in Applications: Emphasize your AP coursework and any relevant projects or achievements in your application.

AP classes can significantly bolster your academic profile and show colleges that you’re prepared for the rigors of higher education. Though, not all AP courses are created equal. 

3. Secure a Great Internship

Internships provide valuable real-world experience and can set you apart from other applicants. Here’s how to make the most of them:

  • Find Relevant Opportunities: Look for internships related to your field of interest or intended major. Search online for internships for your high schools students
  • Gain Practical Skills: Focus on developing practical skills and gaining industry insights during your internship. If you’re looking for structured research opportunities, explore research opportunities for high school students to find suitable programs.
  • Build a Network: Use your internship to connect with professionals and mentors who can offer guidance and support.

Internships not only enhance your resume but also demonstrate your initiative and dedication to your chosen field.

4. Maintain Strong Relationships with Teachers and School Leadership

Recommendations from teachers and school leaders can significantly impact your application. Building strong relationships can help you secure compelling recommendations. Here’s how:

  • Engage in Class: Participate actively and show genuine interest in your subjects.
  • Seek Feedback: Ask for constructive feedback and show a willingness to improve.
  • Be Involved: Participate in school activities and leadership roles to build rapport with teachers and administrators.

Strong recommendations can provide a powerful endorsement of your abilities and character, enhancing your overall application.

5. Give Back to Your Community

Community service is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact. Colleges value students who contribute to their communities. Here’s how to get involved:

  • Identify Causes You Care About: Choose community service projects that align with your interests and values.
  • Make a Difference: Take on roles where you can make a meaningful contribution and demonstrate leadership.
  • Reflect on Your Experience: In your application, discuss how your community service has influenced your personal growth and future goals.

6. Triple Check Your Application for Errors

This might be obvious, but it’s so easy for you and your family to miss a mistake. A flawless application is crucial for making a good impression. Errors can detract from your achievements and attention to detail. Here’s how to ensure your application is error-free:

  • Proofread Multiple Times: Review your application several times, focusing on different aspects each time.
  • Seek Feedback: Have teachers, mentors, or family members review your application.
  • Use Tools: Utilize grammar and spell-check tools, but don’t rely solely on them.

A polished application reflects your dedication and meticulousness, leaving a positive impression on admissions officers.

7. Understand What Colleges Accept Your GPA

Understanding how your GPA fits into the admissions criteria of your target colleges can help you tailor your application. Here’s what to do:

  • Research Admissions Statistics: Look at the average GPAs of admitted students for each college. Check out this list of colleges and universities that accept a 3.4 GPA to find suitable options.
  • Be Realistic: Apply to a mix of reach, match, and safety schools based on your GPA and other qualifications.
  • Highlight Strengths: If your GPA is on the lower side, emphasize other strengths like your essay, extracurriculars, or test scores.

Knowing where your GPA stands can help you strategically apply to colleges where you have a strong chance of acceptance.

By following these strategies, you can create a memorable application that captures the attention of admissions officers and increases your chances of admission to your top-choice schools.

Cornell University Introduces New Essay Prompts for Class of 2029 Applicants

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Cornell University in Ithaca, New York has introduced a new essay prompt that all first-year applicants must respond to in order to be considered for Cornell’s undergraduate Class of 2029.

Regardless of the undergraduate school at Cornell applied to, all first-year applicants during the 2024-2025 admissions cycle are now required to write up to 350 words in response to this prompt:

We all contribute to, and are influenced by, the communities that are meaningful to us. Share how you’ve been shaped by one of the communities you belong to. Remember that this essay is about you and your lived experience. Define community in the way that is most meaningful to you. Some examples of community you might choose from are: family, school, shared interest, virtual, local, global, cultural.

This is a more streamlined prompt than one that appeared last admissions cycle, when, in order to become a member of Cornell’s undergraduate Class of 2028, applicants had to respond to the following now-discontinued prompt in up to 350 words:

In the aftermath of the U.S. Civil War, Ezra Cornell wrote, “I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study.” For over 150 years, Cornell University has remained deeply committed to Ezra’s vision. Explain how your life experiences will help inform your contributions to a learning community devoted to “…any person…any study.” We encourage you to think broadly about your life experiences, including how local (e.g., family, school, neighborhood) or global communities you’ve been part of have helped shape your perspective.

Last year, the focus was on “life experiences” that applicants would harness in order to contribute to the Cornell learning community. This year, the focus is squarely on one community the applicant has been “shaped by” and specifically how.

Beyond the required prompt, depending on the school at Cornell a first-year applicant is applying to, he or she will also have to respond to one or more of the following additional essay prompts:

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Required: By applying to Cornell’s College of Agriculture of Life Sciences (CALS), you are also applying for direct entry into one of our 20+ majors. From here, you would be part of a community dedicated to purpose-driven science; working within your major and across disciplines to tackle the complex challenges of our time.

Why are you drawn to studying the major you have selected and specifically, why do you want to pursue this major at Cornell CALS? You should share how your current interests, related experiences, and/or goals influenced your choice. (500-word limit)

Instructions: The optional short-answer questions invite you to share additional information about your background, interests, and experiences as they relate to aspects of the Cornell CALS mission. The content of any responses submitted will be included in the holistic review of your application (which is also the case for any optional additional information submitted as part of your Common Application or uploaded through your Cornell Application Portal once you’ve applied).

Optional: At Cornell CALS, we aim to leave the world better than we found it, so we seek out those who are passionate about serving the public good. Please elaborate on an experience where you were able to have a meaningful impact on people, a community, and/or an environment of importance to you. (100-word limit)

Optional: Cornell CALS is dedicated to purpose-driven study 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 or interest in agriculture, regardless of your intended major. An “agricultural entity” for the purpose of this question is defined as cultivating soil, growing crops, and raising livestock (e.g., farm, ranch, greenhouse, vineyard, etc.).

Select all that apply:

  • A primary source of income for my parent/guardian(s) comes from ownership of or employment by an agricultural entity.
  • My extended family owns or operates an agricultural entity.
  • I have experience working in an agricultural entity.
  • I have interest in pursuing a career in an agricultural entity.

Please feel free to share additional details (optional). (100-word limit)

The above prompts for CALS applicants are brand new this year. 

College of Architecture, Art, and Planning

How do your interests directly connect with your intended major at the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP)? Why architecture (B.Arch), art (BFA), or urban and regional studies (URS)? B. Arch applicants, please provide an example of how a creative project or passion sparks your motivation to pursue a 5-year professional degree program. BFA applicants may want to to consider how they could integrate a range of interests and available resources at Cornell into a coherent art practice. URS students may want to emphasize their enthusiasm and depth of interest in the study of urban and regional issues. (650 word limit)

The above prompt for Architecture, Art, and Planning applicants is the same as that which existed last year. 

College of Arts & Sciences

At the College of Arts and Sciences, curiosity will be your guide. Discuss how your passion for learning is shaping your academic journey, and what areas of study or majors excite you and why. Your response should convey how your interests align with the College, and how you would take advantage of the opportunities and curriculum in Arts and Sciences. (650 word limit)

The above prompt for Arts & Sciences applicants is the same as that which existed last year. 

Cornell Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy

Why are you drawn to studying public policy? Drawing on your experiences, tell us about why you are interested in your chosen major and how attending the Brooks School will help you achieve your life goals. (650 word limit)

The above prompt for Public Policy applicants is the same as that which existed last year. 

Cornell SC Johnson College of Business

What kind of a business student are you? 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 convey how your interests align with the school to which you are applying within the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business (Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management or the Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration). (650 word limit)

The above prompt for Business applicants is the same as that which existed last year. 

College of Engineering

Instructions: All engineering applicants are required to write two long essays and four short essays.

Long Essay Responses (200 word limit)
  • Question 1: Fundamentally, engineering is the application of math, science, and technology to solve complex problems. Why do you want to study engineering?
  • Question 2: Why do you think you would love to study at Cornell Engineering?
Short Answer Responses (100 word limit)
  • Question 1: What brings you joy?
  • Question 2: What do you believe you will contribute to the Cornell Engineering community beyond what you’ve already detailed in your application? What unique voice will you bring?
  • Question 3: What is one activity, club, team, organization, work/volunteer experience or family responsibility that is especially meaningful to you? Please briefly tell us about its significance for you.
  • Question 4: What is one award you have received or achievement you have attained that has meant the most to you? Please briefly describe its importance to you.

The above writing requirements for Engineering applicants are brand new this year. 

College of Human Ecology

How has your decision to apply to the College of Human Ecology (CHE) been shaped and informed by your related experiences? How will what you learn through CHE and your chosen major impact your goals and plans for the future? Your response should demonstrate how your interests and aspirations align with CHE’s programs and mission. (Refer to our essay application tips before you begin.) (650 word limit)

The above prompt is a reworded version of a similar one that was required of Human Ecology applicants last year. 

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. (650 word limit)

The above prompt for ILR applicants is the same as that which existed last year. 

—-

For students applying to enroll at Cornell in fall 2025, Cornell is test-recommended or score-free depending on the college/school the student is applying to. All applicants must also complete the Common App’s main essay in order to be fully considered for admission into Cornell’s Class of 2029.