How Many Common App Essays Do You Write: A Complete Guide

So, you’re prepping your college applications, and the Common Application is staring you down. You’ve probably heard whispers about essays, and the burning question is: how many Common App essays do you actually need to write? Let’s dive in and clear up any confusion. This guide will equip you with everything you need to know to tackle those essays head-on.

Understanding the Common App: The Foundation of Your Application

Before we get into the essay specifics, it’s essential to understand the Common Application itself. It’s a single online application used by over 900 colleges and universities. This means you can submit your application to multiple schools with just one form, saving you tons of time and effort. That’s the good news.

The Core Common App Essay: The Heart of Your Application

The cornerstone of your Common Application is the Common App essay. This is the essay you’ll submit to every college you apply to through the Common App. Think of it as your introduction, your chance to show admissions committees who you are beyond your grades and test scores.

What is the Common App Essay About?

The Common App essay is designed to be a personal narrative. It’s your opportunity to showcase your personality, experiences, and values. The Common App provides seven different essay prompts to choose from, each designed to help you reflect on different aspects of your life.

Choosing the Right Common App Essay Prompt

Choosing the right prompt is crucial. Read through all seven options carefully. Consider which prompt best aligns with a story or experience you’re eager to share. The best essay will:

  • Show, don’t tell: Use vivid details and storytelling to bring your experiences to life.
  • Reveal something unique about you: Highlight what makes you, you.
  • Reflect on your growth: Show how you’ve learned and evolved through your experiences.
  • Demonstrate your writing skills: Craft a well-written, grammatically correct, and engaging essay.

Beyond the Common App Essay: Supplemental Essays

Now, here’s where things get a little more complex. While the Common App essay is universal, many colleges also require supplemental essays. These are essays specific to each school you’re applying to.

What are Supplemental Essays?

Supplemental essays allow colleges to learn more about your specific interest in their institution. They often ask questions about:

  • “Why this college?”: Why are you interested in their school?
  • Specific programs or departments: What draws you to a particular major or area of study?
  • Your goals and aspirations: How does this college fit into your future plans?
  • Campus culture and community: Why do you feel you’d thrive in their environment?

The number of supplemental essays you need to write depends entirely on the colleges you’re applying to. Some schools may require none, while others may require several. Carefully review the application requirements for each college. This information is usually found on the college’s admissions website or within the Common Application itself.

Strategies for Tackling Supplemental Essays

Supplemental essays require careful planning. Here’s how to approach them:

  • Research each college: Understand their mission, values, and unique offerings.
  • Tailor your responses: Don’t use a generic essay for every school.
  • Be specific: Provide concrete examples and details related to the college.
  • Proofread meticulously: Ensure your essays are free of errors.

The Impact of Essay Length and Guidelines

Each essay has a word count limit. Strictly adhere to the guidelines. Exceeding the word count can be a red flag, showing you can’t follow instructions. Aim for the sweet spot within the given parameters.

Planning and Time Management: Your Essay Writing Timeline

Essay writing takes time. Don’t wait until the last minute. Here’s a suggested timeline:

  1. Brainstorming: Start brainstorming ideas early.
  2. Drafting: Write multiple drafts.
  3. Revision: Revise and refine your essays.
  4. Editing: Get feedback from teachers, counselors, and trusted friends or family members.
  5. Proofreading: Proofread your final drafts meticulously.

Common App Essay Prompts: A Quick Overview

Here’s a quick look at the seven prompts offered by the Common Application. This list should help you start thinking about which one is right for you:

  1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
  2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
  3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
  4. Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
  5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
  6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
  7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Avoiding Common Essay Pitfalls: Tips for Success

Avoid these common mistakes:

  • Generic essays: Write about something personal and unique.
  • Clichés: Avoid overused phrases and topics.
  • Poor grammar and spelling: Proofread meticulously.
  • Not answering the prompt: Ensure your essay addresses the question.
  • Trying to be someone you’re not: Be authentic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some additional questions and answers to help clarify the Common App essay process:

What if I don’t have a “big” story to tell?

That’s perfectly okay! The best essays often come from seemingly ordinary experiences. Focus on the details, reflections, and what you learned.

How do I know if my essay is good enough?

Get feedback from trusted sources. Ask for constructive criticism, not just praise. Revise based on the feedback you receive.

Can I re-use an essay for different colleges?

You can reuse an essay for the Common App, but make sure it applies to the prompt. For supplemental essays, you’ll usually need to tailor your response to each specific school.

What if I’m struggling to write?

Start by brainstorming. Freewrite, make a mind map, or talk out your ideas. Don’t be afraid to seek help from a teacher or counselor.

Is there a secret to writing a perfect essay?

There’s no single secret. The key ingredients are authenticity, clear writing, and a compelling narrative.

Conclusion: Your Essay Journey Starts Now

So, to recap: You’ll write one Common App essay (unless a school requires a different one), and the number of supplemental essays varies depending on the colleges you choose. The Common App essay is your chance to shine, while supplemental essays allow you to show your specific interest in each college. By understanding the application process, planning ahead, and crafting thoughtful essays, you can significantly increase your chances of getting into your dream schools. Good luck with your applications!