How Many Essays Do You Write For The Common App? A Comprehensive Guide
Navigating the college application process can feel like traversing a maze. One of the most significant hurdles is crafting compelling essays. If you’re applying through the Common Application, you’re likely wondering: How many essays do you write for the Common App? This guide will break down everything you need to know, from the required essay to supplemental essays, ensuring you’re well-prepared to showcase your best self to admissions committees.
Understanding the Core: The Common App Essay
The cornerstone of your Common App submission is the main Common Application essay. This is the essay that every applicant is required to complete. The Common App provides seven prompts to choose from, covering a range of topics designed to give you flexibility in choosing the narrative you want to tell.
Choosing Your Common App Essay Prompt
The Common App prompts change yearly, but they typically revolve around themes like personal growth, challenges you’ve overcome, intellectual curiosity, and significant experiences. Carefully read each prompt and select the one that best allows you to tell a compelling story about yourself. Don’t feel pressured to choose the prompt that seems “easiest.” Instead, opt for the one that naturally sparks the most ideas and allows your authentic voice to shine through.
The Length and Requirements of the Main Essay
The Common App essay has a word limit of 650 words. While this might seem generous, it’s crucial to use the space judiciously. Every word should contribute to your narrative and showcase your personality, skills, and aspirations. The essay should be a polished piece of writing, free of grammatical errors and reflecting careful thought.
Beyond the Core: Navigating Supplemental Essays
While the main Common App essay is mandatory, many colleges and universities require supplemental essays. These essays are specific to each institution and offer a chance to demonstrate your interest in that particular school.
The Purpose of Supplemental Essays
Supplemental essays allow colleges to assess your fit with their institution. They might ask you to elaborate on your academic interests, explain why you’re drawn to their specific programs, or describe your potential contributions to their campus community. These essays are a crucial opportunity to demonstrate your research and genuine enthusiasm for the college.
The Number of Supplemental Essays Varies
The number of supplemental essays required varies greatly depending on the college. Some schools have none, while others may have multiple, each addressing a different aspect of your application. Research the specific requirements of each college you’re applying to well in advance of the deadlines. This will allow you to plan your writing and avoid last-minute stress.
Types of Supplemental Essay Prompts
Supplemental essay prompts are as diverse as the colleges themselves. Common types include:
- “Why us?” essays: These essays require you to articulate your reasons for applying to a specific college.
- “Tell us about a time…” essays: These prompts ask you to describe a specific experience, often related to leadership, overcoming challenges, or intellectual curiosity.
- Short-answer prompts: Some colleges use short-answer prompts to assess a wider range of your skills and interests.
Planning Your Essay Writing Strategy
Effectively managing your essays requires a well-defined strategy.
Creating a Master List
The first step is to create a master list of all the colleges you’re applying to. Include the Common App essay, all supplemental essays, and their respective deadlines. This list will serve as your central organizing tool.
Time Management and Prioritization
Break down your essay writing into manageable chunks. Don’t wait until the last minute to start. Allocate sufficient time for brainstorming, drafting, revising, and editing. Prioritize your deadlines and focus on completing the essays for the colleges with the earliest deadlines first.
Brainstorming and Outlining
Before you start writing, take the time to brainstorm ideas and outline your essays. This will help you organize your thoughts, clarify your narrative, and ensure a cohesive and impactful final product.
Seeking Feedback and Revision
Don’t be afraid to seek feedback from trusted sources, such as teachers, counselors, and family members. Get multiple perspectives on your essays and be open to constructive criticism. Revision is a critical part of the writing process; refine your essays until they are polished and reflective of your best work.
Addressing Common App Essay Myths
There are several misconceptions surrounding the Common App essay. Let’s debunk some of the most prevalent ones.
Myth: The Essay Has to Be About a Dramatic Event
While a compelling story is essential, your essay doesn’t need to recount a life-altering experience. Focus on authenticity and genuine self-reflection. A seemingly ordinary event can reveal much about your character and personal growth when examined thoughtfully.
Myth: The Essay Has to Showcase Academic Achievement
Your essay isn’t solely about academic accomplishments. It’s a chance to demonstrate your personality, values, and aspirations. Focus on the aspects of yourself that you want to highlight and how they relate to your goals.
Myth: The Essay Has to Be Perfect on the First Draft
No one writes a perfect essay the first time around. Embrace the revision process. Allow yourself to draft, revise, and edit multiple times until you’re satisfied with the final product.
The Importance of Authenticity
Above all else, be authentic in your essays. Admissions committees are looking for genuine individuals, not perfect students.
Show, Don’t Tell
Instead of simply stating your qualities, show them through your actions, experiences, and reflections. Use vivid language and concrete examples to bring your story to life.
Finding Your Voice
Let your unique voice shine through. Your essays should reflect your personality, perspective, and individual style. Don’t try to write in a way that you think the admissions committee wants to hear; write in a way that feels true to you.
FAQs About Common App Essays
Here are some frequently asked questions about Common App Essays:
How much time should I dedicate to writing the Common App essay?
Set aside ample time, ideally several weeks or even months, to brainstorm, draft, revise, and edit your essay. Avoid cramming; a well-crafted essay requires time and thoughtful reflection.
Can I reuse essays for different colleges?
You can reuse essays, but be mindful of the specific requirements of each college. Tailor the content to fit the prompt and the institution’s values. Never submit an essay without tailoring it.
How important is grammar and spelling?
Grammar and spelling are extremely important. Proofread your essays carefully, and have others review them as well. Errors can detract from the quality of your writing and make a negative impression.
How do I choose the right essay prompt?
Choose the prompt that resonates most with you. It should be a prompt that allows you to express your thoughts, feelings, and experiences authentically, allowing your personality to shine through.
What if I don’t have a “big” story to tell?
That’s perfectly fine! The most impactful essays are often about everyday experiences. Focus on the meaning and significance of the event and how it shaped you.
Conclusion: Your Essay Writing Journey
So, how many essays do you write for the Common App? The answer is: at least one (the main Common App essay), but potentially many more, depending on the colleges you apply to. This journey requires careful planning, thoughtful writing, and a commitment to authenticity. By understanding the requirements, creating a strategic plan, and embracing the writing process, you can craft compelling essays that showcase your best self and increase your chances of admission to your dream college. Remember to approach this process with patience and self-reflection, and let your unique voice guide you. Good luck!