Yes, I applied for Old Dominion University and the essay component was not required, and I did the essay component.
I know that with every application I sent out, I sent the essay whether it was required or not, simply because sending the essay will do nothing but help you.
The essay is another aspect of you that admissions will look over to see more of who you are. However, the essay can also be important. If a college is looking between you and a person with similar qualifications, you can get the upper hand just because you completed the essay with your application.
Old Dominion University takes everyone with or without an essay.
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