Hey folks! So, I'm a bit overwhelmed with the college application process and trying to plan my time wisely. Does anyone know exactly how many essays are required for the Common App, including supplemental ones? I’m trying to get a head start on these during the summer. Cheers!
Hey there! It's great that you're planning ahead. The Common App requires you to write one main essay from a choice of prompts, which will be sent to all the colleges you apply to through the Common App. This essay has a limit of 650 words.
As for supplemental essays, the number varies by college. Many schools ask for additional essays on topics ranging from why you're interested in the school to specific questions about your intended major or extracurricular activities. Some colleges have no supplemental essays at all, while others might require two or more. It's crucial to check each college's specific requirements on their admissions page.
For example, a school may ask for a 250-word essay on how you’ll contribute to the campus community, plus a 150-word short answer about your favorite activity. So, start by making a list of colleges you're interested in and note down the essays each requires. For guides on writing the current batch of supplemental essays for hundreds of colleges, check out CollegeVine's breakdowns here: https://blog.collegevine.com/category/essays/essay-guides-2023-24
Planning is key, as these essays can offer a chance to really show your individuality and interest in a school. Good luck!
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