A

University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa)	Allegheny College	American University	Amherst College	Arcadia University
Arizona State University	University of Arizona	University of Arkansas	Auburn University

B

Bard College	Barnard College	Bates College	Bennington College	Bentley University
Binghamton University	Bloomsburg University	Boston College	Boston University	Bowdoin College
Brandeis University	Brown University	Bryn Mawr College	Bucknell University

C

University of California (all campuses)	CalTech	Carleton College	Carnegie Mellon University	Case Western Reserve University
Chatham University	Chestnut Hill College	University of Chicago	Claremont McKenna College	Clemson University
Coastal Carolina University	Colby College	Colgate University	College of Charleston	College of New Jersey
College of William and Mary	Colorado State University	Columbia University	University of Connecticut	Cornell University

D

Dartmouth College	Davidson College	University of Delaware	DePaul University	Dickinson College
Drew University	Drexel University	Duke University	Duquesne University

E

Eastern University

Elon University

Emerson College

Emory University

F

Fairfield University	Fairleigh Dickinson University	Florida Southern College	Florida State University	University of Florida
Fordham University	Franklin and Marshall College

G

George Mason University	George Washington University	Georgetown University	Georgia Institute of Technology	Georgia State University
University of Georgia	Gettysburg College	Gwynedd Mercy University

H

Hamilton College	Harvard University	Harvey Mudd College	Haverford College	High Point University
Hofstra University	Hollins University	Howard University

I

University of Illinois (Chicago)

University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)

Indiana University (Bloomington)

Iowa State University

Ithaca College

J

James Madison University

Johns Hopkins University

K

Kansas State University

Kenyon College

King's College of PA

Kutztown University

L

La Salle University	Lafayette College	Lebanon Valley College	Lehigh University	Lock Haven University
Lousiana State University (Baton Rouge)	Loyola University of Maryland

M

University of Maine	University of Maryland (College Park)	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	University of Massachusetts (Amherst)	Miami University (Ohio)
University of Miami	Michigan State University	University of Michigan	Middlebury College	Millersville University
University of Minnesota (Twin Cities)	Mississippi State University	University of Mississippi	Missouri State University	University of Missouri
Monmouth University	University of Montana	Muhlenberg College

N

University of Nevada (Las Vegas)	Neumann University	University of New Hampshire	University of New Haven	University of New Mexico
University of New Orleans	New York University	The New School	North Carolina State University	University of North Carolina
Northeastern University	Northwestern University	University of Notre Dame

O

Oberlin College

Ohio State University

Ohio University

Oklahoma City University

Oregon State University

P

Penn State University	University of Pennsylvania	Pepperdine University	Pfeiffer University	University of Pittsburgh
Pomona College	Princeton University	Providence College	Purdue University

Q

Quinnipiac University

R

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute	University of Rhode Island	Rice University	University of Richmond	Rider University
Rochester Institute of Technology	University of Rochester	Rollins University	Rowan University	Rutgers University (all campuses)

S

St. Joseph's University	St. Mary's University	Sarah Lawrence College	University of Scranton	Scripps College
Seton Hall University	Shippensburg University	Skidmore College	Smith College	University of South Carolina
University of South Florida	University of Southern California	Stanford University	Stevens Institute of Technology	Stockton University
Swarthmore College	Syracuse University

T

University of Tampa	Temple University	University of Tennessee	Texas A&M University	Texas State University
University of Texas (Austin)	Thomas Jefferson University	Towson University	Tufts University	Tulane University

U

US Military Academy

US Naval Academy

Ursinus College

V

Vanderbilt University	Vassar College	University of Vermont	Villanova University	Virginia Tech
University of Virginia

W

Wake Forest University	Washington and Lee University	Washington University in St. Louis	University of Washington (Bothell)	University of Washington (Seattle)
Wellesley College	Wesleyan University	West Chester University	West Virginia University	Widener University
Williams College	University of Wisconsin (Madison)	Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Y

Yale University

York College of Pennsylvania

Allegheny College

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Accepts the Common App: Yes
Common App Essay Required? Yes

Does Allegheny College have supplemental essays? Yes

• (Optional) 75 words- Why do you do what you do? Briefly describe your varied interests and talents and how they will fit at Allegheny in two or three sentences.

American University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does American University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 150 words- Why are you interested in American University?

Amherst College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Amherst College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Option A: Please respond to one of the following quotations in an essay of not more than 300 words. It is not necessary to research, read, or refer to the texts from which these quotations are taken; we are looking for original, personal responses to these short excerpts. Remember that your essay should be personal in nature and not simply an argumentative essay.
  • Prompt 1: "Rigorous reasoning is crucial in mathematics, and insight plays an important secondary role these days. In the natural sciences, I would say that the order of these two virtues is reversed. Rigor is, of course, very important. But the most important value is insight—insight into the workings of the world. It may be because there is another guarantor of correctness in the sciences, namely, the empirical evidence from observation and experiments."
    Kannan Jagannathan, Professor of Physics, Amherst College
  • Prompt 2: "Translation is the art of bridging cultures. It's about interpreting the essence of a text, transporting its rhythms and becoming intimate with its meaning… Translation, however, doesn't only occur across languages: mentally putting any idea into words is an act of translation; so is composing a symphony, doing business in the global market, understanding the roots of terrorism. No citizen, especially today, can exist in isolation—that is, untranslated."
    Ilan Stavans, Professor of Latin American and Latino Culture, Amherst College, Robert Croll '16 and Cedric Duquene '15, from "Interpreting Terras Irradient," Amherst Magazine, Spring 2015.
  • Prompt 3: "Creating an environment that allows students to build lasting friendships, including those that cut across seemingly entrenched societal and political boundaries… requires candor about the inevitable tensions, as well as about the wonderful opportunities, that diversity and inclusiveness create."
    Carolyn "Biddy" Martin, 19th President of Amherst College, from Letter to Amherst College Alumni and Families, December 28, 2015.
  • Prompt 4: "Difficulty need not foreshadow despair or defeat. Rather achievement can be all the more satisfying because of obstacles surmounted."
    Attributed to William Hastie, Amherst Class of 1925, the first African-American to serve as a judge for the United States Court of Appeals


• Option B: Please submit a graded paper from your junior or senior year that best represents your writing skills and analytical abilities. We are particularly interested in your ability to construct a tightly reasoned, persuasive argument that calls upon literary, sociological or historical evidence. You should NOT submit a laboratory report, journal entry, creative writing sample or in-class essay. If you have submitted an analytical essay in response to the "essay topic of your choice" prompt in the Common Application writing section, you should NOT select Option B. Instead, you should respond to one of the four quotation prompts in Option A.


• Option C: If you are/were an applicant to Amherst's Access to Amherst (A2A) program, you may use your A2A application essay in satisfaction of our Writing Supplement requirement. If you would like to do so, please select Option C. However, if you would prefer not to use your A2A essay for this purpose and you want to submit a different writing supplement, select either Option A or Option B. Please note that Option C is available only to applicants to Amherst's A2A program. Non-A2A applicants must choose either Option A or Option B.

Arcadia University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Arcadia University have Supplemental Essays? None

Arizona State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Arizona State University have Supplemental Essays? None

Auburn University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Auburn University have Supplemental Essays? None

Bard College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Bard College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Why Bard?

Barnard College

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Accepts Common App:
Common App Essay required?

Does Barnard College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 300 words- What factors encouraged your decision to apply to Barnard College and why do you think the college would be a good match for you?


• 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.


• (Optional) Pick one woman — an historical figure, fictitious character, or modern individual — to converse with for an hour and explain your choice. Why does this person intrigue you? What would you talk about? What questions would you ask them?


• (Optional) Use this space to share anything with the Admissions Committee that you feel provides additional context related to your background, experiences or identity.

Bates College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Bates College have Supplemental Essays? None

Bennington College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Bennington College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
• At Bennington, students don't just study; they're makers and doers who create original work on their own and in collaboration with others. Tell us about something you've created that you're proud of. Why is it important to you? Alternatively, tell us something you look forward to creating when you get to college. (Optional: We'd love to see your work if you'd like to share it with us. You'll receive instructions for submitting your work after we process your application.)


• What piece of media do you think we should all know about and what makes it interesting to you? Your recommendation can be a book, music, TV show, movie, game, magazine, podcast, or social media channel--any form of media, really, but don't forget to let us know why you recommend it.


• Each year, Bennington students spend six weeks participating in Field Work Term at sites around the world. What would you like to do during FWT? Describe an organization, business, individual, career field, or type of work that interests you and tell us what excites you about it.

Bentley University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Bentley University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 250 words-- We invite you to share any additional information about why you would like to attend Bently.
  

Binghamton University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Binghamton University have Supplemental Essays? None

Bloomsburg University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply on Bloomsburg website
Common App Essay required? No

Does Bloomsburg University have Supplemental Essays? None

Boston College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Boston College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 400 words- Respond to one of the following prompts. Applicants to the Human-Centered Engineering major will respond to the 6th.
• Students at Boston College are encouraged to consider critical questions as they pursuee 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?
• Human-Centered Engineering (HCE) Applicants: One goal of a Jesuit education is to preapre 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

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Boston University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- What about being a student at Boston University most excites you?

Bowdoin College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Bowdoin College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Generations of students have found connection and meaning in Bowdoin's “The Offer of the College,” written in 1906 by Bowdoin President William DeWitt Hyde.
  
  To be at home in all lands and all ages;
  to count Nature a familiar acquaintance,
  and Art an intimate friend;
  to gain a standard for the appreciation of others' work
  and the criticism of your own;
  to carry the keys of the world's library in your pocket,
  and feel its resources behind you in whatever task you undertake;
  to make hosts of friends...who are to be leaders in all walks of life;
  to lose yourself in generous enthusiasms and cooperate with others for common ends –
  this is the offer of the college for the best four years of your life.
  
  Which line from the Offer resonates most with you?

Brandeis University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Brandeis University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Brandeis attracts students from many parts of the world. As an international student at Brandeis, how would you enrich the campus community?. (International Students Only)


• 250 Words- 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. (Required)

Brown University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Brown University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 200-250 words- Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about an academic interest (or interests) that excites you, and how you might use the Open Curriculum to pursue it.


• 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.

Bryn Mawr College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Bryn Mawr College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• No word count listed- As you prepare to join a new college community, reflect on your role as a community member throughout the past four years. What legacy do you hope to leave behind?

Bucknell University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Bucknell University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Please explain your interest in your first-choice major/undecided status and your second-choice major, should you opt to list one and why you would choose Bucknell University to pursue your interest(s).

Butler University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Butler University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 100 Words: Briefly describe your reasons for selecting your chosen academic major(s) and how you believe Butler will help you achieve your related career goals upon graduation.

California Institute of Technology (CalTech)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does CalTech have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Tell us about a time or experience in which you encountered failure. We would like to know more about your potential to persist through challenges and problems that you will face in the future. Qualities such as resilience and persistence can be key to solving the many problems and responding to the frequent failures that can be encountered in academics or research. In an essay about research and discovery at Caltech, "The Transformative Power of Failure", several current and past members of our community share their anecdotes about, and perspectives on, various forms of failure. Here are questions that may help guide your response: How do you define failure? What was the problem you were trying to solve? What did you learn from the experience? Did you seek advice or help from others? If so, did you receive any, or did you move forward without? What contributed to your resilience as you struggled, and what motivated your persistence?


• 250 words- Tell us about a life situation, media story, or topic – beyond or outside of a classroom or formal assignment – that has captivated you, inspired your curiosity, and lead you to delve more deeply into learning about a subject on your own. We would like to learn about the nature of your own curiosity and drive to learn independently. Here are questions that may help guide your response: What was the situation, story, or topic? In which ways did it spike your curiosity? Down what path did this newfound interest lead you? How did the pursuit of a deeper, more focused understanding of this prove valuable or satisfying to you?


• 250 Words- Tell us about how you have collaborated with and worked together within a small group of your peers on some task or endeavor in the past, or about how you imagine you will work with your Caltech peers in the future. We would like to know more about your potential to collaborate and work together with others as you reach your own understanding of the problem and solution, whether it be an academic assignment or a research project. At Caltech, it is often the case that problem sets assigned during the first year can be challenging enough that any one student is unable to come up with the solutions in isolation. This has fostered a tradition of small groups of students forming to work together to solve these problems, such that each team member also reaches a deep understanding, both of the solution and the path taken to get there as a collaborative group. Here are questions that may help guide your response: What have your peers told you about the ways you contribute to working in groups? How do you approach problem solving in groups? What would your peers tell us about how you collaborate and work together with them?

Carleton College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Carleton College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• How did you learn about Carleton, either in-person or virtually? (Indicate up to the three most influential factors.)
  • Carleton representative visited my school
  • Carleton sent me information by mail/email
  • Visit to campus
  • Website/web search
  • Social Media
  • College fair
  • I know someone who currently attends Carleton
  • Parent(s) or other relative(s)
  • Carleton alumni
  • Carleton athletic coach
  • High school counselor
  • High school teacher
  • Friend(s)
  • College guidebook
  • College rankings
  • Posse
  • QuestBridge
  • Community based organization/college support program
  • Always known about Carleton
  • Other
  
  
• Please share your thoughts on one (1) of the following prompts, in no more than 300 words.
  1. Carleton’s community plan for inclusion, diversity, and equity aims to nurture and develop an even stronger community where students, faculty, and staff belong and thrive. How might you contribute to a sense of belonging at Carleton?
  2. Before graduation, every Carleton student completes a senior project, known as “comps.” Comps projects take many different forms: a few recent examples are formal research papers, public presentations, and even a live staging of a theater production. Based on your current academic interests, what type of comps project or topic would you explore, and why? (No pressure, we won’t hold you to this!)
  3. Traditions at Carleton center around building and appreciating community. Some examples include the new student frisbee toss, Friday flowers, and baking cookies at Dacie Moses House. If you were tasked with creating a new Carleton tradition, what would you propose and how would you emphasize community within your idea?
  
  
• Anything missing? Do you want to share more with us? If so, use this space to fill any gaps you think would assist us in reviewing your application. (Optional, no more than 250 words)

Carnegie Mellon University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Carnegie Mellon University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 300 words- Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that’s developed over time – what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study?


• 300 words- Many students pursue college for a specific degree, career opportunity or personal goal. Whichever it may be, learning will be critical to achieve your ultimate goal. As you think ahead to the process of learning during your college years, how will you define a successful college experience?


• 300 words- Consider your application as a whole. What do you personally want to emphasize about your application for the admission committee’s consideration? Highlight something that’s important to you or something you haven’t had a chance to share. Tell us, don’t show us (no websites please).

Case Western Reserve University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Case Western Reserve University have Supplemental Essays? No

Chatham University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Chatham University have Supplemental Essays? None

Chestnut Hill College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Chestnut Hill College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Why are you interested in Chestnut Hill College?


• 250 words- Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. 250 Words: Why are you interested in Chestnut Hill College?


• 250 words- Discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you selected above.

Claremont McKenna College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Claremont McKenna College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Why do you want to attend CMC? 150-250 words


• One of the hallmarks of a CMC education is the first-year humanities program that all students take in their first year at the College. The program has two components: the Freshman Humanities Seminar (FHS) and the Freshman Writing Seminar (FWS). While each FHS and FWS seminar has a distinctive approach in terms of texts and topics, their pairing gives first-year students a shared academic experience in small, writing-intensive courses that foster critical thinking about a wide range of important issues.
  
  FHS introduces first-year students to some of the crucial questions that human beings face with relation to society and the world. Individual sections are taught by faculty from a range of departments. Past and current topics include:
  
  1. Democracy and Leadership
  2. Women in Science
  3. Unconventional Thinking
  
  FWS, taught by faculty from the literature department, develops students’ abilities in written and oral communication at the college level. Past and current topics include:
  
  1. Art of the Personal Essay
  2. Blackness in American Cinema
  3. Post-Apocalyptic Humanity
  
  For the purpose of this essay prompt, pick one FHS or FWS seminar to study at CMC. What part of your personal experience—or your desire to know more about an area outside of your experience—best explains your seminar choice? View the full list of FHS and FWS seminar topics here.

Clemson University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Clemson University have Supplemental Essays? None

Coastal Carolina University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Coastal Carolina University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Why are you interested in Coastal Carolina University?

Colby College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Colby College have Supplemental Essays? None

Colgate University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Colgate University have Supplemental Essays? None

College of Charleston

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does College of Charleston have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 750 words- Many students apply to the College of Charleston based on our location, size, reputation and the beauty of our campus (temperate year-round weather also comes up frequently). While these are all important considerations in choosing a college, why is the College of Charleston a particularly good match for you?


• (Required for gap year applicants) 750 words- If you have graduated early, taken a GAP semester/year or you are completing a post-graduate year, we require that you complete this essay so that you can explain your activities over that period. For everyone else, this essay is optional and should be used to make us aware of any anomalies or extenuating circumstances that you’d like us to consider when we review your application.

College of New Jersey

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does College of New Jersey have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 500 words- Why are you interested in The College of New Jersey?

College of William and Mary

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does College of William and Mary have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 650 words max- Beyond your impressive academic credentials and extracurricular accomplishments, what else makes you unique and colorful? What aren’t we seeing elsewhere in your application? We know nobody fits neatly into approximately 500 words, but you can provide us with some suggestion of the type of person you are. Think of this optional opportunity as show and tell by proxy.

Colorado State University

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Accepts Common App:
Common App Essay required?

Does Colorado State University have Supplemental Essays? No

Columbia University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Columbia University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 75 words- 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.


• 125 words- 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. secondary/high school (in person or online).


• 200 words- 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- Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia.


• 35 words- In Columbia’s admissions process, we value who you are as a unique individual, distinct from your goals and achievements. In the last words of this writing supplement, we would like you to reflect on a source of happiness. Help us get to know you further by describing the first thing that comes to mind when you consider what simply brings you joy.

Cornell University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Cornell University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (College of Arts and Sciences) 650 words- 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.
• Different prompt for each college. See Cornell University website for details.

Dartmouth College

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Accepts Common App:
Common App Essay required?

Does Dartmouth College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Please respond in 100 words or fewer:
  Dartmouth celebrates the ways in which its profound sense of place informs its profound sense of purpose. As you seek admission to Dartmouth’s Class of 2027, what aspects of the College’s academic program, community, or campus environment attract your interest? In short, Why Dartmouth?


• “Be yourself,” Oscar Wilde advised. “Everyone else is taken.” Introduce yourself in 200-250 words.


• Choose one of the following prompts and respond in 200-250 words:
  • Labor leader and civil rights activist Dolores Huerta recommended a life of purpose. “We must use our lives to make the world a better place to live, not just to acquire things,” she said. “That is what we are put on the earth for.” In what ways do you hope to make—or are you making—an impact?
  • What excites you?
  • In The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, William Kamkwamba ’14 reflects on constructing a windmill from recycled materials to power electrical appliances in his family’s Malawian house: “If you want to make it, all you have to do is try.” What drives you to create and what do you hope to make or have you made?
  • Dr. Seuss, aka Theodor Geisel of Dartmouth’s Class of 1925, wrote, “Think and wonder. Wonder and think.” What do you wonder and think about?
  • "Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced,” wrote James Baldwin. How does this quote apply to your life experiences?

Davidson College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Davidson College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250-300 Words- There are just under 4,000 4-year colleges and universities in the United States. Being as specific as possible, what interests you most about Davidson College.


• 250-300 Words- Davidson encourages students to explore curiosities in and out of the classroom. What is a topic, activity or idea that excites you? Tell us why. Examples may include hobbies, books, interactions, music, podcasts, movies, etc.

DePaul University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does DePaul University have Supplemental Essays? None

Dickinson College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Dickinson College have Supplemental Essays? None

Drew University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Drew University have Supplemental Essays? None

Drexel University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Drexel University have Supplemental Essays? No

Duke University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Duke University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 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)


• We want to emphasize that the following questions are optional. Feel free to answer them if you believe that doing so will add something meaningful that is not already shared elsewhere in your application. Four optional questions are available - a maximum of 2 can be selected. 250 word max for all.
  1. We seek a diverse student body that embodies the wide range of human experience. In that context, we are interested in what you’d like to share about your lived experiences and how they’ve influenced how you think of yourself.
  2. We believe there is benefit in sharing and sometimes questioning our beliefs or values; who do you agree with on the big important things, or who do you have your most interesting disagreements with? What are you agreeing or disagreeing about?
  3. What has been your best academic experience in the last two years, and what made it so good?
  4. Duke’s commitment to diversity and inclusion includes sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. If you’d like to share with us more about your identity in this context, feel free to do so here.

Duquesne University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Duquesne University have Supplemental Essays? None

Eastern University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply on Eastern University website

• One page- After reading the mission statement of Eastern University, please describe how you see your talents, interests and abilities fitting into the mission of the University.

Common App Essay required? No

Does Eastern University have Supplemental Essays? None

Elon University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Elon University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• THINK FAST. Answers to these questions are meant to be brief - 3 sentences or less. Be inventive and thoughtful. Most importantly, be yourself. This is a chance to tell us more about who you really are in a fun, concise manner. We're excited to get to know you!
  • Name three songs from your perfect playlist.
    We look forward to creating a Spotify playlist from the submissions of our first-year class.
  • We’re in your hometown. Where should we go and what should we do?
    Tell us about your hometown. Our admissions counselors may even take your suggestions when they are in the area!
    Min: 1 / Max: 50 words
  • What three emojis/GIFs do you use most often? Why?
    OK, we know not everyone uses emojis or GIFs - so if you don't, tell us which three you would choose if you did!
    Min: 1 / Max: 30 words
  • You are a superhero. What are your powers?
    Be imaginative. What would you do with the powers you choose?
    Min: 1 / Max: 30 words
  • Tell us your top 5.
    Take this opportunity to let the admissions committee know more about you. Your top 5 should be something unique to you and give us a glimpse of who you are. Be creative! You may choose any theme for your top 5. Do you love cooking? List your top 5 recipes. Are you enthusiastic about anime? Who are your top 5 characters? Do you watch or participate in a lot of athletic events? Name your top 5 moments. Love to stream; what are you watching? You could even list your top five college tours – as long as Elon is #1!
    5.
    4.
    3.
    2.
    1.
    Explain why these are your top 5:
    Min: 1 / Max: 250 words

Emerson College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Emerson College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 100-200 words- As you know, the academic programs at Emerson College are focused on communication and the arts. Please tell us what influenced you to select your major. If you're undecided about your major, what attracted you to Emerson's programs?


• 100-200 words to one of the following- Much of the work that students do at Emerson College is a form of storytelling. If you were to write the story of your life until now, what would you title it and why? OR At its best, how does community benefit the individual, the whole, or both?

Emory University

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Accepts Common App:
Common App Essay required?

Does Emory University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college? Min: 1 / Max: 200 words


• Please answer one of the following questions (Max: 150 words):
  • 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 a time when you were awestruck.
  • Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?

Fairfield University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Fairfield University have Supplemental Essays? None

Fairleigh Dickinson University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Fairleigh Dickinson University have Supplemental Essays? No

Florida Southern College

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Accepts the Common App: Yes
Common App Essay Required? Yes

Does Florida Southern College have supplemental essays? None

Florida State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Florida State University have Supplemental Essays? No

Fordham University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Fordham University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 150 word max- At Fordham, we expect students to care for and engage with their communities. Please share a specific instance in which you challenged yourself or stepped out of your comfort zone in order to impact your community (for example, your family, friend group, high school, or town). Please provide an example that illustrates a facet of yourself that we would not find anywhere else in your application.

Franklin and Marshall College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Franklin and Marshall College have Supplemental Essays? None

George Mason University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does George Mason University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Optional 400 word max- What is your motivation for pursuing higher education? Why do you believe George Mason University is the right institution for you? (If you are applying as score optional, your response is required.)

George Washington University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does George Washington University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
• At the George Washington University, our students frequently interact with policymakers and world leaders. These experiences and those of our alumni can shape the future of global affairs. If you had the power to change the course of history in your community or the world, what would you do and why?
• The George Washington University encourages students to think critically and to challenge the status quo. Thus, civil discourse is a key characteristic of our community. Describe a time when you engaged others in meaningful dialogue around an issue that was important to you. Did this exchange create change, new perspectives, or deeper relationships?

Georgia Institute of Technology

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Georgia Institute of Technology have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 50 word min, 300 word max- Why do you want to study your chosen major specifically at Georgia Tech?

Georgia State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Georgia State University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 350 words- Please list your primary extracurricular and community service activities. Describe one community service activity that you have participated in that has changed your view on a particular social issue. Discuss the social issue and how your experience changed your way of thinking about it.

Georgetown University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply on Georgetown University website

• 1 page- 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.

Common App Essay required? No

Does Georgetown University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Indicate any special talents or skills you possess.


• Half a page- Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved.


• 1 page- 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).

Gettysburg College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Gettysburg College have Supplemental Essays? None

Gwynedd Mercy University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Gwynedd Mercy University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- 150 word min, 500 word max: Discuss an academic, personal or social obstacle you have faced in high school. What strategies did you use to overcome it? How might those strategies be helpful to you as a Gwynedd Mercy University college student?

Hamilton College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Hamilton College have Supplemental Essays? No

Harvard University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Harvard University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 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.

Harvey Mudd College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Harvey Mudd College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 150 word min 500 word max- “Scientific research is a human endeavor. The choices of topics that we research are based on our biases, our beliefs, and what we bring: our cultures and our families. The kinds of problems that people put their talents to solving depends on their values.'' - Dr. Clifton Poodry How has your own background influenced the types of problems you want to solve, the people you want to work with, and the impact you hope your work can have?


• 100 word max- Many students choose HMC because they don’t want to give up their interests in the Humanities, Social Sciences and the Arts – or HSA as we call it at HMC. Briefly describe what you'd like to learn about in your dream HSA class.

Haverford College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Haverford College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• A Haverford education is distinguished by the extraordinary trust placed in students, the emphasis on student agency in all facets of the academic and community experience, and the cultivation of ethical leadership. All of this is embodied in our student-run Honor Code. The Haverford Honor Code is not a set of rules, but rather a statement of shared values centered on the concepts of trust, concern, and respect. It serves as an educational tool in and of itself and provides a powerful framework for our community, emphasizing and supporting qualities we see as essential to a Haverford education. Among other things, the Honor Code at Haverford shapes:
  • Academic Freedom: The Honor Code fosters an atmosphere emphasizing academic integrity, collaboration over competition, and the cultivation of intellectual curiosity. Differences and disagreement are respected, valued, and embraced, and open discourse is seen as fundamental to the academic endeavor.
  • Student Agency: The Honor Code upholds a culture in which students are deeply trusted to take substantial ownership of their education and to profoundly shape and define the Haverford community. Student ownership is reflected in self-scheduled exams, in the fact that every student completes a Senior Thesis, in shared responsibility for the residential experience, and of course in oversight of the Honor Code itself.
  • Community: The Honor Code establishes a supportive environment for living and learning, where the community experience plays a central role in one’s education. The inherent value of every community member is recognized, and diversity in all respects - including diversity of background, experience, and perspective - is nurtured, celebrated, and embraced.
  • Leadership and Engagement: The Honor Code allows every student to find and develop their own voice, to practice ways of improving community and acting on issues of importance, to learn methods of problem solving and conflict resolution, and to examine the ways they can and will impact the world beyond Haverford.
  Please give us a better sense of what you are looking for in your college experience by answering the following questions:
  1. Tell us about a topic or issue that sparks your curiosity and gets you intellectually excited. How do you think the environment at Haverford, including the framework of the Honor Code, would foster your continued intellectual growth? Please limit your response to 250 words.
  2. Please tell us what motivated you to apply to Haverford and what excites you most as you imagine your Haverford experience. Please limit your response to 150 words.

High Point University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does High Point University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 50 words- Describe any special interests or hobbies that you may have.


• 50 words- Describe any meaningful travel experiences (both national and international).

Hofstra University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Hofstra University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 500 word max- Why are you applying to Hofstra?

Hollins University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Hollins University have Supplemental Essays? None

Howard University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Howard University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. You may express why this activity is important to you, lessons learned from said activity, or any related details that give us more information on your passions, goals and/or experiences. While not required, this section gives our committee further details on your interests outside of the classroom.

Illinois State University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? No

Does Illinois State University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 500 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
  • Identify any circumstances that affected your high school academic performance, if applicable.
  • Make clear your commitment to academic success in college, acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses and your plans to utilize available resources.
  • Articulate your readiness to engage productively in our campus community outside the classroom.

Indiana University (Bloomington)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Indiana University (Bloomington) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 200 - 400 words- Describe your academic and career plans and any special interest (for example, undergraduate research, academic interests, leadership opportunities, etc.) that you are eager to pursue as an undergraduate at Indiana University. Also, if you encountered any unusual circumstances, challenges, or obstacles in pursuit of your education, share those experiences and how you overcame them. This essay may be used in scholarship consideration.

Iowa State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Iowa State University have Supplemental Essays? None

Ithaca College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Ithaca College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 10 - 200 words- We're committed to supporting you in energizing your learning experiences so you can go further than you imagine. Please tell us why you selected-and how you see yourself growing in-this specific academic program.

James Madison University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? No, they don't use the Coalition App Essay

Does James Madison University have Supplemental Essays? None

Johns Hopkins University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Johns Hopkins University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 300 - 400 words- Founded in the spirit of exploration and discovery, Johns Hopkins University encourages students to share their perspectives, develop their interests, and pursue new experiences.
  
  Use this space to share something you’d like the admissions committee to know about you (your interests, your background, your identity, or your community), and how it has shaped what you want to get out of your college experience at Hopkins.

Kansas State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Kansas State University have Supplemental Essays? None

Kenyon College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Kenyon College have Supplemental Essays? None

King's College of PA

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Accepts the Common App: Yes
Common App Essay Required? No

Does King's College of PA have supplemental essays? None

Kutztown University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Kutztown University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- What most influenced your decision to apply to Kutztown University?
• Optional 500 word max- You are invited to provide details on information, qualifications, and circumstances not reflected on your application. This can include a gap in educational history, context on a failed or withdrawn course, or information on how COVID-19 impacted your educational experience.

Lafayette College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Lafayette College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 200 words- Students identify Lafayette as an excellent fit for countless reasons. In your response, be deliberate and specific about your motivation for applying to Lafayette.
  
  Why Lafayette?

La Salle University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does La Salle University have Supplemental Essays? No

Lebanon Valley College

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Accepts the Common App: Yes
Common App Essay Required? No

Does Lebanon Valley College have supplemental essays? None

Lehigh University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Lehigh University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 150 words- How did you first learn about Lehigh University and what motivated you to apply?


• 300 words- 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. In the words of Lehigh’s President, John Simon, “The murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis has shaken our nation, and brought into harsh relief the life-threatening, systemic racial injustice that affects the lives of so many every day. Members of our community are angry and fearful, and we will support them...We need to make Lehigh University an actively anti-racist institution. By this, we mean actively speaking out and addressing acts of racism, racist comments, racist practices, policies and procedures.
  
  What would you want to be different in your own country or community to further principles of equality, equity, or social justice?

Lock Haven University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Lock Haven University website
Common App Essay required? No

Does Lock Haven University have Supplemental Essays? None

Louisiana State University A and M (Baton Rouge)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Louisiana State University A and M (Baton Rouge) have Supplemental Essays? None

Loyola University of Maryland

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Loyola University of Maryland have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences.

Miami University (Ohio)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Miami University (Ohio) have Supplemental Essays? None

Michigan State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Michigan State University have Supplemental Essays? None

Middlebury College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Middlebury College have Supplemental Essays? None

Millersville University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Millerville University have Supplemental Essays? None

Mississippi State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Mississippi State University have Supplemental Essays? None

Missouri State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Missouri State University have Supplemental Essays? None

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words each-
• 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?
• Pick what field of study at MIT appeals to you the most right now, and tell us more about why this field of study appeals to you.
• We know you lead a busy life, full of activities, many of which are required of you. Tell us about something you do simply for the pleasure of it.
• 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.
• 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?

Monmouth University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Monmouth University have Supplemental Essays? None

Muhlenberg College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Muhlenberg College have Supplemental Essays? None

Neumann University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Neumann University have Supplemental Essays? None

New York University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does New York University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 400 words- 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?

The New School

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does the New School have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 600 words- The New School brings together a dynamic group of students interested in art, design, performing arts, entrepreneurship, and critical thought. We would like to know more about your interest in joining our community and why you would be a good fit for The New School. We are particularly interested in knowing what will make you a valuable member of your specific school, college, program, area of study, or campus.

North Carolina State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does North Carolina State University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words each-
• Explain why you selected the academic program(s) above and why you are interested in studying these at NC State.
• Discuss any other obstacles and/or hardships that you have encountered that have affected you personally or academically and how you dealt with them.
• 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.

Northeastern University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Northeastern University have Supplemental Essays? None

Northwestern University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Northwestern University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

 
• 300 words- 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.

Oberlin College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Oberlin College have Supplemental Essays? None

Ohio State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Ohio State University have Supplemental Essays? None

Ohio University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Ohio University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (For applicants not enrolled in high school or college for 3 months or longer) 800 words- If there is a period of three months or longer that you have not been enrolled in a high school, college, or university, please provide a statement documenting your activities for that period. Examples include language study, vacation, work experience, family responsibilities.


• (Optional) 500 words- You may use this space to describe any academic challenges you have faced, your preparation for success in your academic and career objectives, or any additional information that you would like to have associated with your application.

Oklahoma City University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Oklahoma City University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 50 words- Tell us a fun fact about you!

Oregon State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Oregon State University have Supplemental Essays? None

Penn State University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Penn State University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 500 words- 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.

Pepperdine University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Pepperdine University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 500 words- Pepperdine is a Christian university where all are welcomed and encouraged to challenge each other in the pursuit of truth. Students, faculty, and staff members from all backgrounds participate in conversations of faith inside and outside of the classroom. Considering that Pepperdine is a Christian university, why are you interested in attending and how would you contribute to conversations of faith on campus?

Pfeiffer University

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Accepts the Common App: No, apply through the Pfeiffer University website
Common App Essay Required? No

Does Pfeiffer University have supplemental essays? None

Pomona College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Pomona College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

 
• 150 words- Students at Pomona are encouraged to take a variety of classes before declaring their major(s) in their second year. Tell us what gets you excited about the academic interest(s) you selected or any other fields of study you hope to explore in college.


• 200 words-- Choose one.
  • Tell us about an experience when you dealt with disagreement or conflict around different perspectives within a community.
  • Tell us about one of the communities you belong to and what it means to bring that shared belief and/or perspective to Pomona.
  
  
• 200 words- Helen Keller once said, “The world is moved along, not only by the mighty shoves of its heroes, but also by the aggregate of tiny pushes of each honest worker.” Whether you aspire to be a hero or an honest worker, what impact do you want to have in the Pomona community, your community back home, or any new community?


• 50 words each-
  • If there are aspects of your identity that you feel are not captured elsewhere in this application, please provide that information below.
  • If not captured elsewhere in your application, please share with us how you have overcome challenges in your life.
  • What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
  • What’s your favorite way to eat a potato?
  • You’re relaxing on a Friday night. Suddenly, your favorite song pops into your head. What is it?

Princeton University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Princeton University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 150 words- Briefly elaborate on an activity, organization, work experience, or hobby that has been particularly meaningful to you.


• 250 words- At Princeton, we value diverse perspectives and the ability to have respectful dialogue about difficult issues. Share a time when you had a conversation with a person or a group of people about a difficult topic. What insight did you gain, and how would you incorporate that knowledge into your thinking in the future?


• 250 words- Princeton has a longstanding commitment to service and civic engagement. Tell us how your story intersects (or will intersect) with these ideals.


• 50 words each-
  • What is a new skill you would like to learn in college?
  • 50 words- What brings you joy?
  • 50 words- What song represents the soundtrack of your life at this moment?

Providence College

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Accepts the Common App: Yes
Common App Essay Required? Yes

Does Providence College have supplemental essays? None

Purdue University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Purdue University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 100 words- How will opportunities at Purdue support your interests, both in and out of the classroom?


• 100 words- Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected.


• 250 words- Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences.

Quinnipiac University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Quinnipiac University have Supplemental Essays? None

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 300 words- Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences.


• 250 words- Why are you interested in Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute?

Rice University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Rice University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 150 words each- Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you?

Rider University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Rider University have Supplemental Essays? None

Rochester Institute of Technology

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Rochester Institute of Technology have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 75 words- If RIT could create any course tailored to your interests, what would that course be about and what would you give as its title?
  
  Please provide a course title and brief description.

Rollins University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Rollins University have Supplemental Essays? None

Rowan University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Rowan University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (For students applying test-optional) 500 words- Why are you interested in attending Rowan University? We encourage you to learn as much as you can about Rowan University when formulating your response and request that you pay particular attention to Rowan's mission statement, presented below, and how it aligns with your personal values and future plans.

Rutgers University (all campuses)

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? Yes

Does Rutgers University (all campuses) have Supplemental Essays? None

Saint Joseph's University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Saint Joseph's University have Supplemental Essays? None

Saint Mary's University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? Yes

Does Saint Mary's University have Supplemental Essays? None

Sarah Lawrence College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Sarah Lawrence College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 250-500 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
• Sarah Lawrence students are often described as hyphenates: director-playwright-sound designer, environmentalist-photographer, journalist-linguist, economist-poet. In 250-500 words, tell us about seemingly disparate interests you've brought together, or hope to bring together at Sarah Lawrence.
• Students at Sarah Lawrence are asked to design their own research questions and answer them during semester-long projects. In 250-500 words, thoughtfully respond to a prompt of your own creation.
• Sarah Lawrence College's community places strong value in inclusion and diversity. In 250-500 words, tell us about what you value in a community and how your perspective, lived experiences, or beliefs might contribute to your College community.
• In her 2019 commencement address, Maggie Haberman '96 told the graduating class "My time at Sarah Lawrence helped me understand the importance of patience, of assuming good faith in others, and of finding truth." In 250 - 500 words, tell us about a time you spoke your own truth or found the importance in one of the values Maggie describes.

Scripps College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Scripps College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 200 words- Why have you chosen to apply to Scripps College?


• 300 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
  • If you could trade lives with someone (fictional or real) for a day, who would it be and why?
  • You’ve invented a time machine! When and where is your first destination and why?
  • You have just been invited to give a TED talk. What will you talk about and why did you select that topic?

Seton Hall University

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Accepts the Common App: Yes
Common App Essay Required? Yes

Does Seton Hall University have supplemental essays? None

Shippensburg University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Shippensburg University have Supplemental Essays? None

Skidmore College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Skidmore College have Supplemental Essays? None

Smith College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Smith College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 200 words- Music means so many things to so many people. It can bring us joy, inspire us, validate us or heal us. Please tell us about a song or piece of music that is particularly meaningful to you and why. Please include the name of the song/piece and the artist.

Stanford University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Stanford University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

 
• 250 words- 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- 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- Tell us about something that is meaningful to you and why.


• 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.
  • Name one thing you are looking forward to experiencing at Stanford.

Stevens Institute of Technology

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Stevens Institute of Technology have Supplemental Essays? None

Stockton University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Stockton University have Supplemental Essays? None

Swarthmore College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Swarthmore College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
  • Swarthmore students’ worldviews are often forged by their prior experiences and exposure to ideas and values. Our students are often mentored, supported, and developed by their immediate context—in their neighborhoods, communities of faith, families, and classrooms. Reflect on what elements of your home, school, or community have shaped you or positively impacted you. How have you grown or changed because of the influence of your community?
  • We are inspired by students who are flexible in their approach to learning, who are comfortable with experimentation, and who are willing to take intellectual risks that move them out of their comfort zone. Reflect on a time that you were intellectually challenged, inspired, or took an intellectual risk—inside or outside of the classroom. How has that experience shaped you, and what questions still linger?
  • Why are you interested in applying to and attending Swarthmore?

Syracuse University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Syracuse University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Why are you interested in Syracuse University and how do you see yourself contributing to a diverse, inclusive and respectful campus community?

Temple University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Temple University have Supplemental Essays? None

Texas A and M University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? No, they don't use the Coalition App Essay

Does Texas A and M University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?

Texas State University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? No

Does Texas State University have Supplemental Essays? None

Thomas Jefferson University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Thomas Jefferson University have Supplemental Essays? None

Towson University

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Towson University website
Common App Essay required? No

Does Towson University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 800 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
  • A defining moment in your life.
  • What motivates you?
  • What are you passionate about?
  • The impact of a role model in your life.
  • Your dream job.

Tufts University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Tufts University have Supplemental Essays? None

Tulane University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Tulane University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

 
• 250 words- Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences.


• (Optional) 800 words- Please describe why you are interested in attending Tulane University.

United States Military Academy (West Point)

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Accepts Common App: No, apply on United States Military Academy (West Point) website

• Essay topic changes each year, only visible once you confirm eligibility via birthdate and SSN

Common App Essay required? No

Does United States Military Academy (West Point) have Supplemental Essays? None

United States Naval Academy

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through United States Naval Academy website

Common App Essay required? No

Does United States Naval Academy have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa) have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Arizona

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Arizona have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Arkansas

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Arkansas have Supplemental Essays? None

University of California (all campuses)

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Accepts Common App: No
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of California (all campuses) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 350 words each- Respond to 4 of the following prompts.
  • Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes or contributed to group efforts over time.
  • Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.
  • What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
  • Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.
  • Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?
  • Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.
  • What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?
  • Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you stand out as a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

University of Chicago

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Chicago have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Question 1 (required):
  How does the University of Chicago, as you know it now, satisfy your desire for a particular kind of learning, community, and future? Please address with some specificity your own wishes and how they relate to UChicago.


• Question 2: Extended Essay (required; choose one)
  1. Was it a cat I saw? Yo-no-na-ka, ho-ka-ho-ka na-no-yo (Japanese for “the world is a warm place”). Moze jutro ta dama da tortu jezom (Polish for “maybe tomorrow that lady will give a cake to the hedgehogs”). Share a palindrome in any language, and give it a backstory.
     —Inspired by Leah Beach, Class of 2026, Lib Gray SB ’12, and Agnes Mazur AB ‘09
  2. What advice would a wisdom tooth have?
     —Inspired by Melody Dias, Class of 2025
  3. You are on an expedition to found a colony on Mars, when from a nearby crater, a group of Martians suddenly emerges. They seem eager to communicate, but they’re the impatient kind and demand you represent the human race in one song, image, memory, proof, or other idea. What do you share with them to show that humanity is worth their time?
     —Inspired by Alexander Hastings, Class of 2023, and Olivia Okun-Dubitsky, Class of 2026
  4. UChicago has been affiliated with over 90 Nobel laureates. But, why should economics, physics, and peace get all the glory? You are tasked with creating a new category for the Nobel Prize. Explain what it would be, why you chose your specific category, and the criteria necessary to achieve this accomplishment.
     —Inspired by Isabel Alvarez, Class of 2026
  5. Genghis Khan with an F1 racecar. George Washington with a SuperSoaker. Emperor Nero with a toaster. Leonardo da Vinci with a Furby. If you could give any historical figure any piece of technology, who and what would it be, and why do you think they’d work so well together?
     —Inspired by Braden Hajer, Class of 2025
  6. And, as always… the classic choose your own adventure option! In the spirit of adventurous inquiry, choose one of our past prompts (or create a question of your own). Be original, creative, thought provoking. Draw on your best qualities as a writer, thinker, visionary, social critic, sage, citizen of the world, or future citizen of the University of Chicago; take a little risk, and have fun!

University of Connecticut

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Connecticut have Supplemental Essays? No

 
• Supplemental essay if applying for a "highly competitive special combined program"

University of Dallas

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Dallas have Supplemental Essays? Yes

 
• 250 words- Why are you interested in the University of Dallas?


• 250 words- What significant contribution will you make to the University of Dallas community?


• 250 words- What do you expect to gain from your University of Dallas education?

University of Delaware

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Delaware have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words max- Self-Appraisal of your academic performance: The Admissions Committee expects that you will take advantage of this question to explain any grade on your transcript that is unusually low or varies significantly from your usual performance in the section below.

University of Florida

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Florida have Supplemental Essays? Yes

250 words max- Please provide more details on your most meaningful commitment outside of the classroom while in high school and explain why it was meaningful. This could be related to an extracurricular activity, work, volunteering, an academic activity, family responsibility, or any other non-classroom activity.

University of Georgia

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Georgia have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 350 words- 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 that you have not already shared in your application.

University of Illinois (Chicago)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Illinois (Chicago) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 50 - 500 words- Please provide an essay that explains why you chose your intended program of study. What interests you the most about this major? Please be specific - those evaluating these essays are highly interested in your response. If Undecided, what areas of study do you look forward to studying in college?

University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? No, they don't use the Coalition App Essay

Does University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 300 words- Explain any challenges (outside of COVID-related) you have faced throughout your academic career, including the dates or timeline below.
• 300 words- If you have a low grade or a drop in grades that you have not already explained, do so below.

University of Kentucky

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Kentucky have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 650 words- 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?

University of Maine

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Maine have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Maryland (Baltimore County)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Maryland (Baltimore County) have Supplemental Essays? Only for applicants to the honors college

University of Maryland (College Park)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does (University of Maryland (College Park) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 200 characters (max) about each of the following-
  • 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 Wednesday was...
  • When I think of diversity, I think of..
  • Something you might not know about me is...

University of Maryland (Eastern Shore)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Maryland (Eastern Shore) have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Massachusetts (Amherst)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Massachusetts (Amherst) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 100 words- Please tell us why you chose the Major(s) you did?

University of Miami

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Miami have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- The University of Miami's official mascot is the ibis. Folklore maintains that the native marsh bird is the last to take shelter before a hurricane hits and the first to emerge once the storm passes, making it an apt symbol of courage and resilience. Considering your ability to control your own motivation and behavior, how have past experiences helped build your courage and resilience to persist in the face of academic and life challenges so that, once these storms pass, you can emerge in continued pursuit of your goals?

University of Michigan

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Michigan have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 300 words- 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.


• 550 words- Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests?

University of Minnesota (Twin Cities)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Minnesota (Twin Cities) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 150 words- Please include an explanation of why you would like to study the major(s) you have selected. You may also use this space to indicate your interest in other major(s) in the colleges listed above.

University of Mississippi

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Mississippi have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Missouri

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Missouri have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Montana

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Montana have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Nevada (Las Vegas)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Nevada (Las Vegas) have Supplemental Essays? None

University of New Haven

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Accepts the Common App: Yes
Common App Essay Required? Yes

Does University of New Haven have supplemental essays? None

University of New Hampshire

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of New Hampshire have Supplemental Essays? None

University of New Mexico

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? No

Does University of New Mexico have Supplemental Essays? None

University of New Orleans

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of New Orleans have Supplemental Essays? None

University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does North Carolina (Chapel Hill) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Please complete these short fill-in-the-blanks in 25 words or less.
  • One family, friend, or school tradition I cherish…
  • If I had an extra hour in every day, I would spend it...
  • If I could travel anywhere, near or far, past, present or future, I would go…
  • The last time I stepped outside my comfort zone, I...
  • People who meet me are most likely to notice...and least likely to notice...
• Pick 2 of the prompts to respond to 200-250 words:
  • Describe an aspect of your identity and how this has shaped your life experiences or impacted your daily interactions with others?
  • Describe a peer who is making a difference in your school or community. What actions has that peer taken? How has their work made a difference in your life?
  • If you could change one thing to better your community, what would it be? Please explain.
  • Former UNC-Chapel Hill employee, community service member, and civil rights activist Esphur Foster once said “We are nothing without our history.” How does history shape who you are?

University of Notre Dame

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Notre Dame have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Please provide a response to the following question (required; max 200 words):
  • Notre Dame is a Catholic university, founded by members of the Congregation of Holy Cross, with a mission to educate the hearts and minds of students. What excites you about attending Notre Dame?
• Please provide a response to ONE (1) of the following questions (required; max 200 words):
  1. People in the Notre Dame community come from many different places, backgrounds, and walks of life. How is where you’re from a part of who you are?
  2. Tell us about a time when you advocated for something you believe in.
  3. If you were given unlimited resources to help solve one problem in your community, what would it be and how would you accomplish it?
  4. What is the greatest compliment you have ever been given? Why was it meaningful to you?

University of Pennsylvania

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Pennsylvania have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 150-200 words- Write a short thank-you note to someone you have not yet thanked and would like to acknowledge. (We encourage you to share this note with that person, if possible, and reflect on the experience!)
• 150-200 words- How will you explore community at Penn? Consider how Penn will help shape your perspective and identity, and how your identity and perspective will help shape Penn.
• 150-200 words- Considering the specific undergraduate school you have selected, describe how you intend to explore your academic and intellectual interests at the University of Pennsylvania.

University of Pittsburgh

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Pittsburgh have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 300 words- Respond to two of the following prompts.
  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion are integral to the Pitt community. Please identify and describe one element of your personal identity, and explain how that element would positively impact and/or progress the Pitt community.
  • Resumes and lists of activities provide the Admissions Committee with an overview of your accomplishments. Please use this opportunity to provide more information by identifying one of your accomplishments and explaining how it has prepared you for a transition into collegiate life.
  • If you could create a new product, process, business, or organization, what would it be? Please describe its purpose and how it would function. (We especially encourage applicants interested in the College of Business Administration or the Swanson School of Engineering to respond to this question.)
  • With thousands of colleges and universities in the United States alone, discuss why the University of Pittsburgh is a good fit for you.

University of Rhode Island

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Rhode Island have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Richmond

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Richmond have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Please select one of the following prompts to address in 350-650 words:
  1. Tell us about the most unusual talent you have, and how you have made it useful.
  2. Spiders are essential to the ecosystem. How are you essential to your community or will you be essential in your university community?
  3. Please share one idea for actions or policies that you think would begin to address an issue of racial or social injustice.

University of Rochester

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Univsersity of Rochester have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• The University of Rochester motto of Meliora – or “ever better” - deeply integrates critical core values into all that we do. These core values of equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect and accountability define not only who we are, but also who we hope to become. Please use the space below to highlight a time, creative idea or research experience when you put into action one or more of these characteristics in order to make yourself, your community or the world ever better. (250 word limit)
• Please select one of the following prompts to respond to in 200 words or less.
  • 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?
  • 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?
  • Susan B. Anthony, champion of abolition and women’s rights, once said “Organize, agitate, educate must be our war cry.” As you look to join our community of doers and disruptors, in what ways do you envision using both the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities to invoke change for marginalized groups?
  • 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 San Diego

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of San Diego have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 350 words- The University of San Diego offers diverse educational opportunities grounded in the liberal arts and sciences. First-year students are immersed in one of our five Learning Communities (LC), with the themes reflecting the vitality of the liberal arts tradition: Advocate, Collaborate, Cultivate, Illuminate and Innovate. Select one of these five themes and describe how it resonates with you and why.


• 200 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
  • Here at USD, we believe that our campus community and the communities we engage with are integral parts of who we are as a university. Our students come from all walks of life, have experienced very different realities and bring with them an array of unique perspectives. Some of these perspectives are underrepresented and underserved by higher education. What contribution have you made to your high school and/or local community that best exemplifies your awareness of and commitment to creating a diverse and equitable community?
  • USD is a proud Changemaker Campus, as designated by Ashoka U. As such, the USD experience emphasizes changemaking through civic engagement, social innovation and global perspective. If you had the opportunity to get involved with a project or organization that addresses a contemporary social issue, what issue would you address and why?
  • The year 2024 will mark USD’s 75th anniversary. In preparation for this milestone, we, as a campus community, are looking to grow in meaningful and impactful ways. We are looking to set the standard for an engaged, contemporary Catholic university where innovative changemakers confront humanity’s urgent challenges. In what meaningful and impactful ways do you hope to grow by the year 2024? Where do you see yourself, and what type of impact do you hope to have on the world around you?

University of San Francisco

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of San Francisco have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 200 words- The University of San Francisco's Jesuit tradition emphasizes community engagement and education for social justice, inspiring our students to become passionate agents for others. How do you see yourself becoming a part of this mission?

University of Scranton

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Scranton have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Southern California

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Southern California have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (Approximately 250 words)
• Starting with the beginning of high school/secondary school, if you have had a gap where you were not enrolled in school during a fall or spring term, please address this gap in your educational history. You do not need to address a summer break.

University of South Carolina

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of South Carolina have Supplemental Essays? None

University of South Florida

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of South Florida have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Tampa

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Accepts the Common App: Yes
Common App Essay Required? No

Does University of Tampa have supplemental essays? None

University of Tennessee

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Tennessee have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 250-800 words- 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.

University of Texas (Austin)

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? No, they don't use the Coalition App Essay

Does University of Texas (Austin) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• UT Austin Essay (required):
  Note: This is the only long essay UT-Austin requires. We do not require any of the Common App Personal Essays. Common App Personal Essays will not be used in our holistic review process.
  Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?
  Please keep your essay between 500–700 words (typically two to three paragraphs).
• Why are you interested in the major you indicated as your first-choice major?
  Please limit your response to 250-300 words.
• 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.
  Please limit your response to 250-300 words.
• 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.
  Please limit your response to 250-300 words.
• 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.
  If your response to this question is similar to one of the Common App Personal Essays, feel free to simply copy and paste the important parts of your essay here.
  Please limit your response to 250-300 words.

University of Texas (Dallas)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Texas (Dallas) have Supplemental Essays? None

University of Texas (San Antonio)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does University of Texas (San Antonio) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 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?

University of Vermont

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Vermont have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 500 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
  • Why UVM?
  • 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 and 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

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Virginia have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 300 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
  • 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 (Bothell)

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? Yes

Does University of Washington (Bothell) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 300 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.


• (Optional) 200 words- 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 Washington (Seattle)

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Accepts Common App: No, apply through Coalition App
Coalition App Essay Required? Yes

Does University of Washington (Seattle) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 300 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.
• (Optional) 200 words- 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 (Madison)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does University of Wisconsin (Madison) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 650 words- 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.

Ursinus College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Ursinus College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 300 words- Why Ursinus College?

Vanderbilt University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Vanderbilt University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Please select one of the following short answer prompts:
  • Vanderbilt offers a community where students find balance between their academic and social experiences. Please briefly elaborate on how one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences has influenced you.
  • Vanderbilt University values learning through contrasting points of view. We understand that our differences, and our respect for alternative views and voices, are our greatest source of strength. Please reflect on conversations you’ve had with people who have expressed viewpoints different from your own. How did these conversations/experiences influence you?

Vassar College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Vassar College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Please select and respond to one of the following prompts in 300 words or less.
  • At Vassar, we aim to foster an inclusive community through our philosophy of engaged pluralism. Engaged pluralism is rooted in “the conviction that collaborating across differences is necessary for social transformation and critical for the well-being of any community and its members.” In short, we believe it's our differences that make us stronger. Tell us a little bit about what makes you unique and what you hope to add to our community.
  • Vassar is a diverse community that inspires positive change through open inquiry, deep dives into society’s most difficult challenges, and collaborative problem solving. We care deeply about one another, the communities that have forged us, and the community we build together on campus. Tell us more about the community (or communities) you come from and how it has shaped who you are.

Villanova University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Villanova University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 250 words- Respond to one of the following prompts.
  • What is the truest thing that you know? How did you come to this conclusion?
  • Villanovans are known for “holding doors open” because inclusion is at the core of who we are. Take us on a journey through your background and describe how your life experience has shaped your understanding of the word “inclusion”.
  • Generation Z is arguably the most technologically savvy cohort in history. They find answers to questions, discover troves of new music, or even start the next global social movement, all within seconds. How has this seemingly limitless connectivity influenced the person you have become?
  • In St. Augustine’s book Confessions, one of the themes is the idea of redemption and second chances. Tell us a story about second chances. It can be your experience or one that you have come across through others or through media.

Virginia Tech

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does Virginia Tech have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 120 words each-
  • Virginia Tech's motto is "Ut Prosim" which means 'That I May Serve'. We are interested in learning more about your interests and how you have been involved and/or served. Briefly describe a group, organization, or community that you have been involved with. Is this a special area of interest for you, and why? How long have you been involved? What role did you play? What contributions have you made to this group? Were you able to influence others and/or influence decisions for the good of the group?
  • Describe a situation where you were involved or witness to an act of discrimination. How, or did, you respond? Do you wish you would have responded differently? Did this situation cause any change to happen based on this event and did you have a role in that change? What did you learn from this experience?
  • Briefly describe a personal goal you have set for yourself. Why this goal, what is your timeline to achieve this goal, what precipitated this goal? Have you turned to anyone for advice or help, what was their role, what did you learn about yourself, are you still working toward this goal?
  • Describe an example of a situation where you have significantly influenced others, took on a leadership role, helped resolve a dispute, or contributed to a group’s goals. What was your role, what responsibilities did you take on? Did you encounter any obstacles, and if so how did you respond, were you able to overcome them? What would you do differently?

Wake Forest University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Wake Forest University have Supplemental Essays? None

Washington and Lee University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Washington and Lee University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Please describe how you have familiarized yourself with Washington and Lee University and what aspects of W&L's community are most exciting to you. (250 words)
• Please describe an aspect of your life outside of school that is important to you, such as an extracurricular activity, a job or a family responsibility. How has your involvement shaped your personal qualities and growth, and how has it impacted those around you? (250 words)

Washington University (St. Louis)

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Washington University (St. Louis) have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• Please tell us what you are interested in studying at WashU and why. Undecided about your academic interest(s)? Don’t worry—tell us what excites you about the academic division you selected. Remember that all of our first-year students enter officially “undeclared” and work closely with their team of academic advisors to discover their academic passions. You can explore all of our majors and programs on our website. (200 words)

Wellesley College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Wellesley College have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 400 words- When choosing a college community, you are choosing an intellectual community and a place where you believe that you can live, learn, and flourish. We know that there are more than 100 reasons to choose Wellesley, but it's a good place to start. Visit the Wellesley 100 and select two items that attract, inspire, or energize you. Have fun with this and use this opportunity to reflect personally on what items appeal to you most and why.

Wesleyan University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Wesleyan University have Supplemental Essays? None

West Chester University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does West Chester University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• (Optional) 800 words- Please feel free to share any additional information that you feel may be helpful for us to know when reviewing your application for admission.

West Virginia University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does West Virginia University have Supplemental Essays? None

Widener University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Widener University have Supplemental Essays? None

Williams College

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Williams College have Supplemental Essays? None

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Worcester Polytechnic Institute have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 500 words- Worcester Polytechnic Institute seeks students who are the right fit for its academic and campus community. In what ways are you the right fit for the distinctive educational and campus experience that Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers?

Yale University

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? Yes

Does Yale University have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• 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.
  • 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)
  • What is it about Yale that has led you to apply? (125 words or fewer)
• Short Takes: Please respond in no more than 200 characters (approximately 35 words or fewer), to each of the following questions:
  1. What inspires you?
  2. You are teaching a new Yale course. What's it called?
  3. 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 and what would you ask them to discuss?
  4. What is something about you that is not included anywhere else in your application?
• Yale Essays: Please respond to one of the following prompts in 400 words or fewer. Please indicate the number of the prompt you choose.
  1. Yale carries out its mission “through the free exchange of ideas in an ethical, interdependent, and diverse community.” Reflect on a time when you exchanged ideas about an important issue with someone holding an opposing view. How did the experience lead you either to change your opinion or to sharpen your reasons for holding onto it?
  2. Reflect on a time when you have worked to enhance a community to which you feel connected. Why have these efforts been meaningful to you? You may define community however you like.

York College of Pennsylvania

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Accepts Common App: Yes
Common App Essay required? No

Does York College of Pennsylvania have Supplemental Essays? Yes

• This section is OPTIONAL for applicants who will be providing ACT/SAT scores. This section is REQUIRED for applicants who will NOT be providing ACT/SAT scores.
  Please submit your thoughtful response to the following question (length should be 250 to 650 words):
  • Option 1: Describe a class that was particularly challenging for you and what you did to meet that challenge. In detail, describe the subject matter and consider the actions you took to be successful in that class.
  • Option 2: Describe, in detail, a class that engaged your imagination. What did you like most about that class?
  • Option 3: Describe the ways in which you believe college course work will be different from high school. Include the steps that you will take to remain on track for success in a college environment.