Your college application essay plays a pivotal role in your scholarship application. It helps admission committees see beyond your achievements and determine if you’re a great fit for their school. Thus, knowing the dos and don’ts is important before you start writing.
Your application essay gives college admission officers a glimpse of who you are. It showcases your analytical ability, critical thinking, and writing skills. In other words, the essay is a measure of your overall competence.
Admission officers look for more than just strong academics. Here are the top 3 qualities that US colleges value in applicants:
The college has to decide between applicants with similar qualifications. Thus, the more unique your essay is, the better your chances, not just of admission, but also of securing larger scholarships.
Read more: Requirements for studying a Master’s in the US.
Selecting the right topic is a decisive step that can affect your admission result. A strong essay should feel personal and unique, rather than generic, to leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee.
Don’t:
According to college admissions counselors, you don’t need an extraordinary topic to write a great essay. Some schools may announce the prompts for the admission essay. Use them as a guide to share personal stories that truly reflect who you are.
Do:
This gives the admissions committees a clear picture of the value you bring. In fact, U.S. News notes that some of the strongest essays focus on simple, everyday topics.
For example, the road to school every day, the dining table, and catching fish with wet flies.
What sets you apart is how you tell your story and how it reflects your introspection. This can also highlight your reasons and long-term goals for studying in the US.
Wondering how to write a college application essay? It doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Here are 4 steps to get you started:
Step 1: Choose an essay topic.
Prioritize a topic that feels authentic to highlight your viewpoint. This makes your essay more relatable and engaging.
Step 2: Create an outline.
Start with a general outline. This helps your essay stay coherent and cohesive. Arguments should flow logically, backed with clear reasoning and concrete evidence.
Step 3: Write your first draft.
Aim for vivid imagery and personalized content to demonstrate your individual experience and deliver a stronger message.
Step 4: Proofread and edit.
Once you’re done with your first draft, proofread for stylistic errors and logical fallacies. To gain a fresh perspective, you may consider seeking professional help with proofreading.
If you’re planning to apply for a scholarship, avoid the following mistakes in your essay.
Now you know the most important strategies to write a persuasive US college application essay! Certified English translations are also crucial when applying to study in the U.S.
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