What do colleges look for in the Common App essay?

As part of the college application process, colleges ask prospective students for a personal essay in order to learn more about them. They want to see context on each student's background, positive traits that the student could bring to campus, and examples of the student demonstrating those qualities.

What should you not say in Common App essay?

How do you write a Common App essay that stands out?

Can the Common App essay be about anything?

You can discuss almost anything you want, provided your topic addresses the prompt you've chosen. There are also no rules on style or how to tell your story. You must submit the Common App essay to all colleges that require it, though some may ask you to submit one or more supplemental essays as well.

What do colleges see on Common App?

Schools do not have any access to your information until you add them to your My Colleges list. At that point, they can see only the information you have filled out for their school. They cannot see other schools to which you are applying.

6 Common App Essay Mistakes To Avoid | i've edited 50+ essays

What do Common App recommenders see?

Colleges look to recommendation letters to see applicants from different perspectives — to get to know them better and identify what makes them unique. Counselors can show an applicant within the context of their school community. They can address a student's academic achievements, personal interests and goals.

Do colleges check your search history?

Search history isn't a factor when you for admissions

But they won't access your search history. Instead, colleges will search for what they have access to, your Social Media.

How do I make my college essay stand out?

A standout college essay has several key ingredients: A unique, personally meaningful topic. A memorable introduction with vivid imagery or an intriguing hook. Specific stories and language that show instead of telling.

What should you not talk about in a college essay?

What are the most common college essay topics?

What makes you a strong candidate for college essay?

Whether reflected in the essay or the thoughtful confluence of the academic course load and extracurricular activities, a successful applicant should highlight an ability to overcome obstacles and garner results. It's about proving you can produce outcomes, both on the part of the student and the university.

What does a good college essay look like?

Telling Your Story to Colleges

The best way to tell your story is to write a personal, thoughtful essay about something that has meaning for you. Be honest and genuine, and your unique qualities will shine through. Admissions officers have to read an unbelievable number of college essays, most of which are forgettable.

How long should a college essay be 2021?

The primary essay for your college application, often called a personal statement, is typically around 400-600 words. The Common App personal statement — which is used as the primary application essay by more than 800 colleges — must be 250-650 words.

What are three big mistakes commonly made on college application essays?

How do I know if my Common App essay is good?

Your essay will always go beyond the anecdote, but an anecdote offers a reader an easy, smooth way into your personal statement. A good Common App Essay topic can relate, as much as possible, to a particular anecdote, story, or even scene.

Do colleges actually read essays?

Yes, every college essay is read if the college has asked for it (and often even if they did not ask for it). The number of readers depends on the college's review process. It will be anywhere from one reader to four readers.

What topics are off limits in college essay?

Some of the best essays were about topics normally considered off-limits—depression, death of a grandparent, sports injury, veganism, sexual identity, etc. These essays succeeded because no one else could've written them. It's knowing how to personalize a topic.

Should you talk about mental health in college essays?

Recently, I've noticed a concerning uptick in the number of students asking whether it's appropriate for them to write about mental health issues, most frequently ADD and/or anxiety, in their college applications. So the short answer: don't do it.

Can I write about addiction in my college essay?

Likewise, if a story arc of addiction and recovery is an essential part of your past, it may be a worthy topic to tackle. However, students should never mention casual use of drugs or alcohol. It sounds like obvious enough advice, but you'd be surprised…

How do you impress college admissions?

What awards look good on college applications?

What should my college essay be about?

Your college essay should reflect your opinions and experiences and display clear and critical thinking. It's more than a list of facts or a highlight reel of successes; it helps college admissions officers understand your character. So show them who you are.

Can colleges see your Snapchat messages?

Colleges can see posts on social media, such as Snapchat, Instagram, or TikTok, if the accounts are not set to private. Up to 25% of college admissions officers check out applicants' social media presence.

Can colleges see your DMS?

Yes, colleges can look at the public version of your social media accounts, but they don't have some sort of secret, government-like power to access your private information. It's much more likely that your social media behavior would only be brought to their attention if it causes a stir.

Do colleges look at your digital footprint?

Since 2008, it has explored the role of your digital footprint in application review, and not surprisingly, it has been growing every year. Nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of admission officers in the latest survey said it is “fair game” for reviewers to visit applicants' social media pages.