Most colleges or universities across the world require applicants to submit at least one essay with their application packet. There are three main kinds of college admission essays: essays about the applicant, essays about why the applicant is applying to a specific college or university, and creative writing essays. Regardless of the kind of essay a college might require, all essays submitted should be well-researched and well-thought-out. In addition, the essays should be checked for proper grammar and spelling.
Among the more popular types of college admission essays are essays about the applicant. Usually, an essay will cover a unique achievement or experience. Typically, the applicant will be asked to describe how she changed or grew as a person because of the experience or achievement. In most cases, admission committees are looking for applicants who are genuine and who can communicate their thoughts effectively through their writing. In addition, these kinds of essays give applicants an opportunity to reveal something unique about themselves, aside from grades and standardized test scores.
When college admission essays are centered on achievements or experiences of the applicants, it is important that they do not come across as self-absorbed or conceited. In addition, many applicants may try to lightly touch on many experiences, but it may be better to focus on a single experience. The essay also should grab the readers’ attention and be well-organized.
Many colleges or universities like to read essays on why an applicant wants to attend that particular school. Again, the essay must be well-researched and give specific, accurate reasons why the school is a good fit for the applicant. In addition, these kinds of college admission essays should be sincere, but not overly flattering. It is important that the applicant use this kind of essay to help her stand-out.
Some college admission essays are more creative in nature. For example, an essay question may ask the applicant to research and write creatively about a topic, such as a local issue, a national controversy, or even a character in a book or play. The goal is to allow admissions officers to see the applicant’s knowledge base. These college admission essays must be accurate. For example, there should not be any factual mistakes regarding the controversy or book character.
Some colleges allow the applicants to select a general essay topic to write about for their college admission essays. Given free range, an applicant is better able to provide individual information about themselves, what they feel is important, and demonstrate an ability to tell a story or to express an opinion. As a result, the committee may use that information to help them decide whether the applicant should be granted acceptance to the school. Other colleges give students a specific topic and encourage them to write about that topic to the best of their ability. In those cases, the schools are looking for students who can research topics as well as write well.