How to write a College Admissions Essay

A college essay is your opportunity to show admissions officers who you are and why you deserve to be accepted at their school.

Here are some tips on how to write a college essay:

Think about the prompt. Read it carefully and think about what it’s asking you to do — not just what you want to write about.

Brainstorm, but don’t overthink it. Just start writing, even if your ideas seem like they won’t fit with the prompt or meet its criteria. You can always go back and edit later.

Write about something that matters to you. The best essays are personal, so take time writing about something that really matters to you and reflects who you are as a person (and not just for college). Talk about what makes you unique!

Use examples from your life, but keep them focused on the topic at hand. For example, if your prompt asks “Why should we accept you into our school?” — focus on how well-rounded your personality is or how great of a fit you are with their school culture and how you can help enrich the student environment.