To learn how to write compelling Common App essays, read on!


Gain instant access to 25 exclusive full-length examples covering all seven prompts, plus comprehensive analyses for each to help you craft stellar essays.


Gain instant access to 25 exclusive full-length examples covering all seven prompts, plus comprehensive analyses for each to help you craft stellar essays.

Gain instant access to 25 exclusive full-length examples covering all seven prompts, plus comprehensive analyses for each to help you craft stellar essays.

But what is the Common App essay?

Gain instant access to 25 exclusive full-length examples covering all seven prompts, plus comprehensive analyses for each to help you craft stellar essays.

You don't want your essay to read like a resume: it shouldn't be a list of accomplishments. Your essay needs to add something to the rest of your application, so it also shouldn't focus on something you've already covered unless you have a really different take on it.

Gain instant access to 25 exclusive full-length examples covering all seven prompts, plus comprehensive analyses for each to help you craft stellar essays.

Gain instant access to 25 exclusive full-length examples covering all seven prompts, plus comprehensive analyses for each to help you craft stellar essays.


Why does the Common App Essay—and other college essays—matter?

We’ve broken down the wild sea of supplemental essays into a few particular types of questions and come up with some strategies with which you can approach the next phase of your application.

Common App Essay Prompts 2024–2025

Not determinative, but informative, we have always utilized testing in context as a metric when evaluating student applications. Brown does not have minimum test scores required for admission, and a score that may be below our average test ranges should not deter a student from applying. Considering testing in context means that our understanding of a student’s scores is based on multiple factors, including educational background, socioeconomic status, home and school community, and accessibility to well-equipped testing centers. This type of contextual evaluation is one more resource we can use to ensure equitable consideration of standardized test scores and support academic preparation as we work to create a diverse and dynamic class. This policy will provide greater clarity and consistency in Brown’s admission process and will allow us to be mission-driven and data-informed.

Brainstorming Common App Essay topics

You will receive a confirmation email from the Office of College Admission confirming receipt of your Common Application. It is best to ensure that all application materials are sent by the deadline. However, if your application and application payment/fee waiver are submitted by the deadline, it is acceptable to have some of your supporting materials (transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc.) arrive within the following week.

Unlike most colleges want the common app essay.

Need inspiration for your Common App personal statement? Click below for instant access to 25 full-length example essays including advanced breakdowns of why they resonate with admissions committees.

Here are some Common App essay tips to help you choose a topic:

Need inspiration for your Common App personal statement? Click below for instant access to 25 full-length example essays including advanced breakdowns of why they resonate with admissions committees.