What Is Writing Supplement on Common App?
The Common Application, commonly known as the Common App, is an online college application platform used by over 900 colleges and universities in the United States and abroad. It allows students to apply to multiple institutions by filling out a single application, including personal information, academic history, extracurricular activities, and more. One important component of the Common App is the Writing Supplement.
The Writing Supplement is an additional essay or set of short answer questions that some colleges require in addition to the main Common App essay. It is an opportunity for applicants to showcase their writing skills, express their unique perspectives, and provide more insight into their personal experiences and ambitions. Each college has its own specific requirements for the Writing Supplement, which can range from a short paragraph to multiple essays.
The Writing Supplement is an important part of the college application process because it allows admissions officers to learn more about the applicant beyond their academic achievements and extracurricular involvement. It provides a space for students to demonstrate their writing abilities, creativity, and critical thinking skills. The essay prompts or questions asked in the Writing Supplement are designed to assess how well applicants can articulate their thoughts, analyze complex ideas, and communicate effectively.
While not all colleges require a Writing Supplement, it is crucial for applicants to thoroughly research the requirements of each college they are interested in. Some colleges may only require a brief response to a specific question, while others may ask for a more extensive essay. It is essential to carefully read and understand the prompts provided by each college to ensure that the Writing Supplement meets the specific criteria.
FAQs:
Q: Which colleges require a Writing Supplement?
A: The colleges that require a Writing Supplement can vary from year to year. It is important for applicants to check the requirements of each college they are interested in to determine if a Writing Supplement is required. The list of colleges requiring a Writing Supplement can be found on the Common App website.
Q: Can I reuse my Common App essay for the Writing Supplement?
A: While some colleges allow applicants to reuse their Common App essay for the Writing Supplement, it is not recommended. Each college has its own specific prompts or questions, and tailoring your essay to address those specific prompts will increase your chances of a successful application.
Q: How long should the Writing Supplement be?
A: The length of the Writing Supplement can vary depending on the college’s requirements. Some colleges may ask for a short paragraph, while others may require a longer essay. It is important to carefully read and follow the instructions provided by each college.
Q: What should I write about in the Writing Supplement?
A: The topics for the Writing Supplement can vary greatly. Some colleges may provide specific prompts or questions, while others may give applicants more freedom to choose their own topic. It is important to select a topic that allows you to showcase your strengths, interests, and experiences while aligning with the college’s values and mission.
Q: How should I approach the Writing Supplement?
A: It is crucial to start early and give yourself enough time to brainstorm, outline, write, and revise your essay. Make sure to carefully read and understand the prompt, and then reflect on your experiences, interests, and goals. Use specific examples and anecdotes to support your ideas and make your essay more engaging. Seek feedback from teachers, counselors, or trusted mentors to ensure that your essay is clear, well-written, and effectively communicates your message.
In conclusion, the Writing Supplement on the Common App is an additional essay or set of short answer questions required by some colleges as part of the application process. It provides applicants with an opportunity to showcase their writing skills and provide more insight into their personal experiences and ambitions. It is important for applicants to thoroughly research the requirements of each college they are interested in and carefully craft their responses to meet the specific criteria. The Writing Supplement is a valuable tool for colleges to assess applicants’ writing abilities, creativity, and critical thinking skills.