All About Supplemental Essays

When preparing for college admissions, many students focus exclusively on the Common App personal statement. While important, it’s not the only essay you’ll write. Most colleges also require supplemental essays specific to their institution and mission. These range from personal statement length (650 words) to short, one-word answers. Despite their varying lengths, all are crucial to showcasing different facets of your personality and goals. Even optional essays should be completed—they’re an opportunity to tell admissions officers why you belong in their freshman class.

If you're applying to a University of California school, you’ll write four essays, choosing from eight prompts, with a 350-word limit each. Meanwhile, California State schools generally skip essays, except for the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), which requires one about your background and educational goals.

Supplemental essay topics often vary. Some may focus on your major, while others reflect on the school’s mission. “Why Us” essays, for instance, ask why you want to attend a particular school and are a chance to emphasize how you’ll contribute to their community.

5 Tips for Managing Supplemental Essays

1. Start Early

   Finalize your college list by mid-summer before senior year. Once the Common App opens on August 1, create an account and add schools. Essay prompts are often listed directly on the Common App, so you can start early. Applying to 12–15 colleges could mean you'll have to write over 20 essays, so begin as soon as possible to ensure they’re polished.

   
   

2. Select Your Major in the Common App

   After adding schools to your application, select the academic school and major that you want to pursue. By doing this, you may notice additional essay prompts appear. Some refer to these essays as “stealth” essays (because they are hidden), and many students don’t notice them until the day the application is due.

   
   

3. Create a Supplemental Essay Spreadsheet and Repurpose

   Organize prompts and track progress in a spreadsheet. This also helps you identify opportunities to repurpose essays. For instance, a prompt about extracurriculars might work for multiple schools with slight modifications. If you repurpose an essay for multiple applications, take the time to review it carefully before submitting it. Double-check that all mentions of the school’s name and specific programs are updated to match the institution you are applying to. Overlooking these details can give the impression of a lack of effort or interest, which could harm your application. Tailoring each essay to its intended school is essential to demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm and fit.

   
   

4. Present a Different Side of Yourself

   Use supplemental essays to highlight unique aspects not covered in your personal statement. For example, if your personal statement focuses on your academic interests, use supplemental essays to discuss leadership roles, personal challenges, or creative pursuits.

   
   

5. Do the Research

   For “Why Us” essays, avoid generic answers like a school’s location or sports teams. Instead, discuss academic programs, professors, and clubs that align with your goals. Show how the school’s unique resources will help you succeed, and explain how your passions and talents will enrich the campus. Write specifically about the academic school and major you’re interested in, and explain why that institution is uniquely suited to provide the educational experience you’re seeking. Delve into the school’s website and course catalog to identify programs or opportunities that resonate with your goals. Research professors whose work excites you and mention them in your essay. Explore clubs or extracurricular activities you’d like to join. The “Why Us” essay is truly a “Why You” essay—admissions officers want to see how you’ll contribute to their campus. Highlight your passions, interests, and talents with specificity and authenticity.

   
   

Personalized Support for Supplemental Essays

As an independent college counselor in Fairfield County, CT, I can help you craft thoughtful, compelling supplemental essays. I offer personalized guidance to navigate the college admissions process, from selecting coursework to creating a well-rounded application that highlights your strengths. With tailored strategies and expert advice, I’ll help you stand out in a competitive admissions landscape. Schedule a call with me today to get started!