Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Are Duke optional essays really optional?

Hey folks, I'm working on my Duke application, and there are some optional essay sections. Do you think I should complete them or is it really okay to leave them blank? Would love to hear any advice, especially from those who've applied to Duke before!

11 months ago

Hello! It's great that you're working on your Duke application. Yes, the optional essays are indeed optional, but it is highly recommended that you complete them. While they may not be strictly required, these essays give you the opportunity to provide more information about yourself and your background, as well as showcase your writing skills and your interest in Duke specifically.

By completing the optional essays, you are demonstrating your enthusiasm for the school and the willingness to put in extra effort to stand out from other applicants. This can potentially make a difference in the admissions process.

That being said, only complete the optional essays if you have something valuable or unique to add. If you feel like you can't provide something insightful or interesting, it might be better to leave them blank. However, if you have additional experiences or perspectives to share that didn't fit in your main essay or other parts of your application, it's a great opportunity to include them.

Remember to take your time, revise, and proofread your essays to ensure they accurately represent your strengths and further support your application. Good luck with your Duke application!

11 months ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.