oxford supplemental essays

Emory’s Short Answer Questions 2024-25

• July 22, 2024

We are pleased to announce Emory University’s short answer questions for the 2024-2025 first-year application.

In addition to your Personal Statement, please answer two additional short answer questions, one about your academic interests and one to help us get to know you better. We encourage you to be thoughtful in your responses and not stress about what the “right answer” might be, as there really isn’t one.

Academic Interests

This question is required. (200 Words Recommended Length)

• What academic areas are you interested in exploring at Emory University and why?

Getting to Know You

In addition, answer one of the following questions. (150 Words)

• Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?
• Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.
• Emory University’s unique mission calls for service to humanity. Share how you might personally contribute to this mission of service to humanity.
• Emory University has a strong commitment to building community. Tell us about a community that you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better.

Want advice and examples of other great Emory University application essays and Personal Statements? We’ve got you covered! Check our Strong Personal Statements blog series . We share real essays from previous years’ applicants who were admitted and enrolled at Emory University. Each applicant’s personal statement includes thoughts from the staff who reviewed it and why they felt it was a strong example for you.

We look forward to getting to know you better through your application writing.

Be sure to connect with us by posting a comment to this blog,  following us @emoryadmission , or  emailing us at [email protected] .

Don’t miss out on information about applying to Emory by  joining our mailing list.

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• previous post: Regular Decision Notification Update

How to write an Oxford application essay

Hello hello!

Not sure how many future Wellesley’s plan on applying to study abroad at Oxford (and the OIS already has great resources for this); thought I’d share my essays and how I structured/thought about them.

When you apply for Oxford, at least for the visiting program, you can apply for two out of the thirty-something colleges that make up the University. Granted, Wellesley only allows us to choose from seven or so of those thirty plus colleges, but that’s still plenty to choose from.

How I chose which two colleges to apply for: Arbitrarily. I literally googled “Oxford University Mountaineering Club” (because I knew I would want to get heavily involved with that club) and looked a the two climbing wall locations. Mansfield and St. Edmund were the two closest to these locations, ha.

Other specifications included: had to teach Economics, since that’s what I’m studying, and had to be a full year (I didn’t want any one-semester silliness–if I’m going to go to Oxford, I’m going to get the full experience!) and finally, I literally calculated the percentage of each college that is made up of visiting students and I think Mansfield and St. Edmund were pretty high; i.e. my chances of getting in were best there.

Okay so onto the essay structuring itself: First paragraph is basically “Why Oxford”

Oh and by the way, here’s what the essay prompt was. That’s kind of important:

“A personal statement which provides a brief account of your studies to date in your present university and an account of how a year of study at Mansfield College would fit into your educational plans. Your personal statement should also include a detailed description of the main subjects you would like to study as well as a description of the course work you have completed in the subject(s) at your home college or university.”

Okay first paragraph: “Why Oxford”

I am drawn to Oxford, and Mansfield College specifically, for a number of reasons. Oxford’s tutorial program requires a combination of dedication, hard work, and independence that I believe would challenge and enhance my intellectual ability, and is also a challenge I am excited to take on and am well prepared for. Oxford also has the geographic environment I am looking for, which is a place of natural beauty and greenery, with a large city easily accessible but not too close by (very similar to Wellesley). Mansfield College, specifically, offers courses in subjects I hope to pursue at Oxford, namely Economics and Management, and in which I already have demonstrated interest. Finally, being an avid rock climber, I have thoroughly researched Oxford’s Mountaineering Club, and Mansfield College is particularly close to both the Iffley Bouldering Wall and the Brookes Climbing Wall, two main locations for the OUMC.

Second paragraph is “why me/why I’m a good fit/why I can handle the program”:

The reason I say I am well prepared for Oxford’s tutorial program is because I am well acquainted with challenging, independent work, as well as heavily writing-based daily routines. The MIT Sloan School of Management course I took this semester, Power and Negotiation, was writing-intensive, met once a week, and was very much a self-learning process. I have also been developing my writing skills since age ten, when I began keeping a journal, and am now one of five weekly bloggers for the Wellesley Admissions Office. I am highly interested in improving my writing and independent work skills, and believe Oxford’s tutorial program perfectly aligns with those interests.

Paragraph three is “what courses I plan on taking (since they want to know) AND WHY and what courses I have already taken”:

Specifically, I plan to take Economics and Management courses at Mansfield, with the addition of one Human Sciences course. My previous coursework in Calculus, Principles of Microeconomics, Principles of Macroeconomics, Statistics, and Intermediate Microeconomic Analysis have prepared me well for the Economics courses I plan to take at Mansfield, which are Economics of Developing Countries, Labour Economics and Industrial Relations, and Command and Transitional Economies. I am drawn to these specific primary tutorials because I am highly interested in the macro economy. I read the Wall Street Journal daily and follow the international impact of economic policies made not only in the U.S., but also in China, Japan, and the European Union. My previous coursework in Power and Negotiation introduced me to art of managing difficult interactions and developed my desire to take Strategic Management, Organisational Analysis, Behaviour and Leadership, and Behaviour and its Evolution: Animal and Human at Mansfield. Having held multiple leadership roles since high school and with plans to work in finance after graduation, I desire to enhance my interpersonal and management skills.

A quick note here: I don’t read the WSJ anymore. I was just reading it a lot at the time of this application because I was preparing for banking interviews for summer internships. So don’t feel like you have to be someone who reads a lot of publications all the time. It’s okay to stretch the truth.

Paragraph four is “conclusion and what other cultural aspects (of Oxford, or the UK in general) I find unique/I will look forward to experiencing”

Given my experience in writing-intensive and independent work, my demonstrated interest in Economics and Management, and my passion for climbing, I feel I am a particularly good fit for a year abroad at Mansfield College. In addition, I plan to take full advantage of the social and traditional events at Oxford, including the formal dinners and lectures. This winter break, I will be backpacking through Asia, and during my term breaks at Oxford, I hope to backpack through both the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Having demonstrated my ability to withstand a rigorous academic workload by taking challenging courses and maintaining very good grades at Wellesley, while participating in time-consuming extracurricular activities, I believe Oxford will supplement very well the educational experience I’ve established for myself at Wellesley. It would be a pleasure and a privilege to spend a year abroad at Mansfield College.

Voila! There’s an essay. One page, size 12, Times New Roman, single spaced, normal margins.

Below is my St. Edmund essay, slightly tweaked to personalize it to the school, but otherwise the same.

Hope this will be helpful to future Wellesley-Oxford-hopefuls!

Cheers and have a great rest of the week,

I am drawn to Oxford, and St. Edmund Hall specifically, for a number of reasons. The Oxford tutorial program requires a combination of dedication, hard work, and independence that I believe would challenge and enhance my intellectual ability, and is also a challenge I am excited to take on and am well prepared for. Oxford has the geographic environment I am looking for, which is a place of natural beauty and greenery, with a large city easily accessible but not too close by (very similar to Wellesley). St. Edmund Hall, specifically, offers courses in subjects I hope to pursue at Oxford, namely Economics and Management, and in which I have already demonstrated an interest. Finally, being an avid rock climber, I have thoroughly researched Oxford’s Mountaineering Club, and St. Edmund Hall is particularly close to both the Iffley Bouldering Wall and the Brookes Climbing Wall, two main locations for the OUMC.

In addition, I am drawn to both St. Edmund Hall’s recent partnership with the Oxford Chinese Economy Programme and the launch of the China Growth Centre in 2009. I am highly interested in China’s economy, as demonstrated by my History of Chinese Commerce and Business course this semester and my close reading of the Wall Street Journal (which has proven especially interesting lately considering the decisions of the People’s Bank of China to decrease benchmark rates.) Both the OXCEP and the CGC will allow me to pursue my growing interest in the Chinese economy while I’m abroad.

Finally, one of my extracurricular passions, rock climbing, will be thoroughly fulfilled if I am to attend Oxford, and St. Edmund Hall specifically. The OUMC is extensive, active, and very well equipped with resources. I am currently pioneering the founding of a climbing team at Wellesley, and have already networked with various climbing gyms, Wellesley administrators, and climbing equipment brands—one of which has already agreed to sponsor our fledgling team! St. Edmund Hall has a prime location (compared to the other colleges Wellesley has programs with) in relation to OUMC facilities. I would be honored to climb, compete, and go on trips with OUMC members, as well as learn from club leaders how to successfully lead the club.

Given my experience in writing-intensive and independent work, my demonstrated interest in Economics and Management, and my passion for climbing, I feel I am a particularly good fit for a year abroad at St. Edmund Hall. In addition, I plan to take full advantage of the social and traditional events at Oxford, including the formal dinners and lectures. This winter break, I will be backpacking through Asia, and during my term breaks at Oxford, I hope to backpack through both the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Having demonstrated my ability to withstand a rigorous academic workload by taking challenging courses and maintaining very good grades at Wellesley, while participating in time-consuming extracurricular activities, I believe Oxford will supplement very well the educational experience I’ve established for myself at Wellesley. It would be a pleasure and a privilege to spend a year abroad at St. Edmund Hall.

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• College Application

Oxford University: How to Get in

Featured Expert: Sophia Xian, Cornell University

The University of Oxford received up to 25,000 applications last year from students all over the world vying to be part of this illustrious institution. Given the number of applicants every year its essential that you know exactly how to get into Oxford to stand out from the crowd. The school’s acceptance rate is nowhere as low as another similarly-vaunted university, Harvard University , which only admits around 4% of applicants, so if you meet the requirements, have a stellar Oxford personal statement , and ace any of the required entrance exams, there is a chance you can get into one of the highest ranked universities in the world. 

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

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Article Contents 18 min read

Mission statement.

“The advancement of learning by teaching and research and its dissemination by every means.”

The first classes believed to have been given on the site where Oxford University is now were in the 1110s, so the university has had centuries to refine its mission to this simple sentence. The school’s reputation precedes itself so there is not much to add to the statement other than the fact that given the over 35 colleges that make up the school, students can find their own way to contribute to the school’s mission.

Want to learn 7 most important and easy ways to make your college essay stand out? Watch this video:

Admission Statistics

Percentage of Admitted UK Students: 79.4%

Percentage of Admitted EU Students: 3.8%

Percentage of International Students: 16.8%

Number of Applications: 23,819

Number of Admitted Students: 3,271

Acceptance Rate: 15.3%

Percentage of Admitted Students with AAA or Higher at A-Level: 60.8%

Minimum Grade Average: Three AAA at A-level courses

The triple AAA grade is the UK equivalent to a 90% average for students coming from universities in Ontario or a 3.0 GPA for any students from the US. The AAA grade must be attained for only a certain set of Oxford undergraduate programs, as each program has unique requirements, and the school does not have a set of general admission requirements, although it recommends students have an overall GPA of 3.0. In addition to the various grade requirements, many programs at Oxford also ask students to submit written work, such as a college letter of intent or something similar so you should read up on college essay tips to help you stand out.

Oxford Prerequisites

There are over 60 different undergraduate programs available at Oxford and each one has its own requirements and prerequisites. But the requirements needed for entry are, variously, a combination of the following:

• Minimum A or AAA grade in A-level courses
• Written tests (program-specific)
• Written work (personal statements, essays, research proposals; also, program-specific)

The school has an online program course listing, which lists every course’s particular requirement, which all vary across the various disciplines and subjects. For example, courses in liberal arts and humanities, such as Classics, History, and Philosophy all have specific entrance exams.

Classics applicants must take the Classics Admissions Test. History applicants must take the History Admissions Test; Philosophy applicants must take the Modern Language Assessment Test, and so on. The same applies to every program, but there are some, such as biology, chemistry, and music that do not require any entrance exams, except, they require applicants meet very different criteria, such as getting top grades in A-level chemistry and maths courses.

These entrance requirements apply equally to UK, EU and international students. International students must check the requirements of each course to ensure that they have met or are on track to meet the academic requirement with the equivalent grade given by their home country. The school provides a chart that international students can check to determine what their grades should be to be accepted into their particular program.

The Oxford personal statement is one of the universal admission requirements for the school, as every student, regardless of program or origin, must submit a personal statement. But this is also because the unified application service used in the UK for undergraduates, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), requires all applicants to submit a UCAS personal statement , as part of their online application; similar to how all allopathic medical school students in the US must write an AMCAS personal statement when submitting their applications.

The statement should be a focused explanation of why you want to attend Oxford, what about your field of study interests you, and what you have done outside of academia to reflect your passion for this subject ( extracurriculars for college), but also answer questions such as “ why should we accept you? ”, which is a common college essay topic .

Oxford Supplemental Essays

However, many programs ask for more than one piece of written work (STEM courses do not ask for written material beyond grades and entrance exams), so you need to be prepared to write at least two essays, depending on your program. What’s more, many programs have their own specific set of questions and prompts that you must respond to, so even if you read over all the college essay examples you can, you might still have to write a completely new essay according to a unique prompt or question.

For example, applicants to the Archaeology and Anthropology program must provide, along with their Oxford personal statement, two written pieces, which must be fulfilled by submitting an essay from their required course work, as well as a maximum 500-word essay answering the following question:

“What can we learn about people, either past or present, from their material culture?”

Here we’ll provide an Oxford personal statement example plus a few essays responding to the above prompt and more from other programs.

Oxford Personal Statement Sample

I’ll never forget the phrase that ignited my passion to attend Oxford. Despite all the renowned writers such as J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Oscar Wilde, who attended Oxford and have left an indelible mark on the world of literature, it was a writer from outside the traditional English canon that most inspired me. The statement is made by a character in V.S. Naipaul's novel, "The Mystic Masseur." In the book, the character claims that the Bodleian Library, nestled within the university, is the "center of the world."

That exclamation made me think it was the center of the world. At the age when I read it, I was not equipped to unpack or critique that statement, which I accepted blindly. Then, I was not able to intellectually spar with such a statement, which is problematic on so many levels, if viewed through the lenses I now have to interpret the world. Despite the fact that this powerful assertion resonated deeply with me, as it highlighted the significance and influence of knowledge and literature in shaping our understanding of the world, I intend to challenge the notion that this center lies solely within the realm of European literature.

Through my research and study, I hope to shed light on the vibrant written culture and traditions of different regions, from the vibrant storytelling of African authors to the poetic wisdom of Asian literature. My ultimate goal would be to share these insights and perspectives with other readers, inspiring them to embark on their own literary journeys and discover their personal "centers of the world" within their respective cultures.

By challenging the Eurocentric literary canon and amplifying marginalized voices, I aim to contribute to a more inclusive and diverse understanding of literature and its role in shaping our worldviews. In joining the English program at Oxford University, I am eager to engage in rigorous academic discourse, participate in seminars and tutorials, and collaborate with esteemed faculty and fellow students who share my passion for literature.

Oxford's academic environment, with its centuries-old traditions and emphasis on critical analysis, provides an ideal setting for me to expand my intellectual horizons and deepen my understanding of literature's transformative power. But the diversity and collection of curious, intellectually savvy minds here at Oxford is another important part of my project. Meeting people from all parts of the world is something that studying all the great English authors could never give me, and I plan to immerse myself in this new, multicultural community.

Through my studies, I aim to build a solid foundation in both canonical and non-canonical works, examining the intersections of culture, history, and literature. By exploring the multifaceted nature of literature, I hope to contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding representation, diversity, and the evolution of literary traditions. But I am most strongly committed to challenging the notion of a singular center and exploring non-European literary traditions, especially here at Oxford.

Another inescapable part of how to get into Oxford, the Oxford college admissions interview is something that all applicants must undergo to be admitted. Unlike colleges in the US and universities in Canada , Oxford interviews every undergraduate applicant, despite the high number of applicants every year. Every program has its own interview criteria and not every applicant is invited to an interview.

Tutors, aka professors, review all applications and shortlist those who they feel are best suited to the program. If you are not invited to an interview, this, unfortunately, signifies your application has been unsuccessful. If you are invited to interview, then, you should prepare by getting someone, such as a college admissions consulting firm to show you how to prepare for a college interview.

For the upcoming application cycle, interviews will be held virtually. Each program has its own interview schedule and quantity, as some programs may want to interview you twice, rather than once. The interview format also depends on the program, and college. Some programs may give you material before-hand (artwork, book title, photograph) that you must respond to during the interview. Others may ask you more direct college admissions interview questions such as “ tell me about yourself ” and “ what would you contribute to your future college campus community ”. 

Interviewers are typically tutors, or professors, from the program or college you applied to specifically. The interviews are open-book, as well, so your interviewers will have your complete application (personal statement, transcripts, college recommendation letters ) in front of them. However, another college or program may invite you to interview, if they feel your application is strong, so you may have many interviews to do, especially if you applied to more than one program or college. The school provides sample questions for each undergraduate program to help students prepare. Each program has a specific question, followed up by the type of response that would satisfy the interviewers given by a tutor from that particular program or college.

All applications to Oxford begin with the UCAS application. According to both Oxford and the UCAS timeline , you must apply for the upcoming year’s term so that means you have to start your application in the summer before you plan to attend. The entire process requires the following steps:

• Registering on UCAS
• Registering for and taking your entrance tests
• Completing your written work
• Submitting your full application

The final date to submit your completed application is October 16, but the final date to submit any relevant written work is on November 10, after which students are invited to interviews, throughout December. Students learn of their admittance to the program by January 9 of the year they plan to begin their studies. Admitted students are notified directly by the school and are then contacted by their respective college. Rejected students can request feedback from their college if they wish to re-apply next year.

Tuition and Funding Opportunities

Tuition for Home/UK Students: £9,250

Tuition for EU/Overseas Students: £28,950 and £44,240

Living Expenses for All Students: £1,290 and £1,840/month

The school charges different fees for home (UK) students versus those it charges to EU or international students, which is a common practice. However, some UK students may be eligible to have their tuition fully covered via financial assistance – typically a loan sponsored by the government. But there are many more options and funding opportunities both for UK and international students available at Oxford, both internally and externally.

1. Crankstart Scholarships

This scholarships program is only available to students residing within the UK longer than five years. It is also meant for students who come from households earning less than £32,500 annually and require financial assistance to complete their studies. There is no separate application form for this scholarship, as all students who meet the base criteria:

• Be a resident of the UK for longer than five years
• Be earning their first undergraduate degree in the UK
• Come from a household earning less than £32,500

Will automatically be awarded the bursary, which also includes other benefits, such as mentorship opportunities, career guidance, but responsibilities as well. Scholarship recipients must complete up to 25 hours of volunteer work every year for the duration of their time at Oxford.

2. Oxford Bursaries for UK Students

Oxford itself also helps students pay for school, as it regularly awards bursaries to students who fit certain criteria, namely, household income level. Similar to the FAFSA application in the US, UK students admitted to Oxford must complete a Financial Assessment Form and submit it to Oxford. The school will then award non-repayable bursaries to UK students based on their household income level. The bursaries range in value from £1,000 (for the least disadvantaged) to £4,000 (for the most disadvantaged).

3. Simon and June Li Undergraduate Scholarship

This scholarship was endowed by Simon and June Li expressly to help students from Middle Eastern, Central and Southeast Asian nations enrolled in their third or fourth year who are pursuing a degree in Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Division. But new students may also apply. The scholarship covers tuition and living expenses for one student, and is renewable for the entire course of study, provided the winning student maintains their academic standing and regularly reports on their progress to the scholarship foundation.

4. Palgrave Brown Scholarship

This is a partial scholarship offered by Oxford to students from Eastern and Central European nations who require assistance to complete their studies at Oxford. There are no restrictions on the course of study and students can use the scholarships for the duration of their studies, if they remain in good academic standing and continue to demonstrate financial need. Only one scholarship is awarded per year and the amount (£13,365/year) is intended to cover living expenses and other costs associated with studies at Oxford.

List of Majors at Oxford

The number of degree programs available to undergraduates at Oxford is small compared to the hundreds of options available to students thinking about how to get into UCLA or how to get into Stanford University . There are only four undergraduate degree possibilities offered in a number of different majors, with the four degrees available being:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA)
• Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA)
• Bachelor of Theology (BTh)
• Bachelor of Education (BEd)

However, all humanities, arts and language bachelor degrees offered at Oxford last only three years, but STEM students have the option to take a fourth year to receive a Master’s degree, rather than a BA. So, students majoring in biology can opt to either graduate with a BA (three-years), or a Master (four-years). The four-year option does not exist for non-STEM subjects, such as history or English.

But, should you pursue a master’s or PhD at Oxford, the graduate arts and humanities programs at Oxford require an entirely separate application process, which means writing an Oxford PhD proposal or graduate school statement of purpose , which are some of the admission requirements for the Oxford graduate school. The following majors are only a small sample of what the school offers, so make sure to check the website for more options and details about all the relevant admission requirements.

1. Biomedical Science 

Acceptance Rate: 9%

Grade and Course Requirements: A* AA or higher in two A-level math, chemistry, biology, or physics courses

Admission Test: Biomedical Admissions Test

Degree Options: BA or MBio

Written Work: No

Students who graduated from this program at Oxford were lucky, as 80% of graduates were either still studying the subject or found paid work associated with the degree. The Biomedical Science degree program offers students interested in a career in medicine or healthcare a solid foundation to build their knowledge of medical and biological science. The courses emphasizes both classroom instruction, lab work and research experience, especially in the optional fourth-year, which will give students more exposure to research practices and opportunities.

Acceptance Rate: 16%

Grade and Course Requirements: A*AA or higher in biology and either chemistry, physics or mathematics

Admission Test: n/a

Degree Options: BA or MBiol

One of the few science programs that do not require an entrance exam, students entering this program must register for the four-year Master degree, but can choose to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in their third year. If they decide to progress to the final fourth year, they must achieve above-average academic standing and maintain it. The program is intended to prepare both students new to biology and those who are already familiar for further study into more specialized areas such as cell biology, molecular biology or ecology. Students who do decide to continue into the fourth year are required to complete a capstone research project and choose a faculty member to show them how to write a master’s thesis proposal.  

Oxford University is a “city university” in that it does not have a main campus or building, but is rather woven into the fabric of Oxford (the city) itself, meaning elements of the university, be they lecture halls, classrooms, colleges, research centers, student residences and cultural buildings, are spread throughout the city. The most famous buildings associated with Oxford, such as the Bodleian, Radcliffe Camera, and the Sheldonian Theatre are used both by university students and everyday residents of Oxford.

The 39 colleges associated with the school are organizational as they are not associated with any particular department or program, and play host to several different programs. Students do not usually choose their college, but belonging to a college is a key part of being admitted to Oxford and they can choose one on their application. However, the school may often assign a student to a particular college so that all incoming students are evenly spread out throughout the college system.

Faculty and Alumni

There have been over 70 Nobel laureates associated with the University of Oxford with the earliest being in 1927, and the most recent being in 2022. Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Peace Prize winner, earned a BA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics. Bill Clinton completed a Rhodes scholarship at Oxford and is the only US president to have attended. Close to 30 British Prime Ministers have graduated from the school, along with the man credited with inventing the internet. Stephen Hawking, T.E. Lawrence, Virginia Woolf, Indira Gandhi, and Thomas Hobbes are all graduates, as well.

Contact Information

Oxford Undergraduate Admission

University of Oxford

University Offices

Wellington Square

United Kingdom

Telephone: +44 1865 270000

The mission of the University of Oxford is to spread knowledge and learning throughout the world by any means. 

The university has a specific UK-based grading system, but each program at Oxford has its own specific grade requirement. The base requirement suggested by Oxford is a single A* or higher in an A-level course, which is the equivalent to a 3.0 GPA in the US. 

Despite its elite pedigree and international reputation, it is not impossible for anyone to get into Oxford, if they meet the requirements of their course, which is standard for entering any undergraduate program. UK students do have an advantage, as many more UK students are admitted than EU or international students. But the overall acceptance rate of 15%, which is about the same as the University of Cambridge, but much higher than another elite and international institution, Harvard University. 

No, Oxford is not part of the Ivy League, as that is a designation for elite schools in the US. However, Oxford is often rated as one of the top five universities in the world, according to the Times of London Higher Education World University Rankings. While, according to the Times Good University Guide, it is the number 1 university in the world, for almost eleven years running. 

Oxford looks for several qualities in candidates but it is most focused on your academic ability and passion for your particular subject.  

Yes, the school, or individual programs, all interview prospective students to determine their suitability for their particular program. Only select applicants are invited for an interview, meaning if you are not sent an invitation to interview then your application has been terminated. 

The school does have a college waitlist for all undergraduate admissions. But there are other acceptance options as well. Some students may be directed to a preparatory program or Foundation course that will help them attain the academic scores and intellectual stamina to attend the full degree course. Others are offered conditional acceptances so they must improve an aspect of their application the school has found to be lacking or wait until their final grades have been released. Open offers are for applicants who have been accepted into their program, but have yet to be accepted into a college, which is a requirement of attending. 

No, the school will not recognize any test results from the US, but each program at Oxford has its own admittance test, which all applicants must pass for entry into the program. The BMAT and TSA are only two of the tests required, as each program uses one in accordance to its subject matter. 

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Emory University 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 1

Emory University 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 200 words, 1 essay of 150 words Supplemental Essay Type: Why , Oddball

Academic Interests

What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college (200 words).

This required prompt is nothing more or less than an academically inclined Why essay. As you dig into the writing, aim to answer these two key questions: (1) What do you love about the subject? (2) How does Emory’s specific program meet your needs or excite your curiosity? In other words, your goal is not just to geek out (although that’s highly encouraged!), but also to demonstrate your fit for Emory specifically. If you can display a knowledge or curiosity for your chosen major alongside some school-specific facts, you’ll show admissions that you’re motivated and dedicated to their institution. If that’s not a winning combo, we don’t know what is! So, before you start scribbling away (or pounding out 300 words on your computer), remember that the backbone of any good Why essay is research! Give yourself some time to dig through the Emory website and get to know your department as well as any related programs, centers, and opportunities.

Getting to Know You

In addition, answer one of the following questions. Your response should be no more than 150 words.

Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?

In this prompt, Emory University is looking for more than just a summary of your favorite book. Admissions wants to know why a certain work of art is meaningful to you, and how it connects to your identity, history, or values. As with all supplemental essays, your goal should be to use this prompt as an opportunity to tell admissions something new about yourself through your relationship to a particular piece of art. Does “ Still I Rise ” by Maya Angelou resonate with you as a young woman of color overcoming obstacles with courage and determination? Have you always felt that you and Allison from The Breakfast Club were cut from the same cloth? How come? Be careful to avoid self-aggrandizing or pandering choices rather than writing about works that truly speak to you. Don’t write about Charlotte Brontë unless you genuinely feel connected to her life and work. When you give admissions insight into the art that you feel is representative of your personality, experiences, or background, you will be revealing a fascinating, newfound piece of the complex puzzle that is you.

Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.

Emory wants to accept applicants that are curious, open-minded, and socially aware. Admissions wants to bring students to campus who will not be afraid to question their own beliefs or biases, or to strive to consider different perspectives and points of view. So, how have you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness? Maybe you saw Juneteenth trending on Twitter this summer and had never heard of it before. Did you read articles to educate yourself? Reach out to friends or family members who were celebrating? What did you learn? Perhaps one of your friends put the kibosh on a joke you told during a birthday party, so you took it upon yourself to better understand the subject matter and why your joke may have been insensitive or offensive. All of us are constantly learning and growing, so there’s no shame in being wrong about something as long as you seek to listen, retain information, and expand your horizons.

Emory University’s core mission calls for service to humanity. Share how you might personally contribute to this mission.

“Service to humanity” can sound lofty and intimidating, but fear not! Emory’s not expecting you to cure cancer or invent perpetual motion; “service to humanity” can be as simple and personal as tutoring other students at the writing center, running psychology experiments in a lab class, or using your History major to educate your roommates about internment camps. We recommend—say it with us—research! How will your time at Emory prepare you to serve humanity when you leave? Check out the website to see if there are service groups or volunteer organizations you might join on campus; maybe there’s a special capstone project for your proposed major. And if you do plan to cure cancer, write about that, too!

Emory University has a strong commitment to building community. Tell us about a community you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better.

This is a classic Community Essay, through and through. Admissions wants to know what or who has made you into the person you are today and how you have impacted your community. First of all, let us remind you that your “community” can be just about anything, from your neighborhood to your family to your Taylor Swift fan club. Pick a community that means something to you and in which you’ve been very involved. Maybe you come from a tiny town where you revived a long-lost harvest festival tradition. Perhaps you suggested team-building exercises for your baseball team that brought you all closer together. Maybe you started cooking a weekly pancake breakfast for your younger siblings after your parents got divorced. No matter your starting point, be sure you tell a clear story with a beginning, middle, and end. It might be tempting to pen a vivid description of your community and leave it at that, but the point of an essay like this is to tell a story about you and your contributions.

No matter which prompt you choose to respond to, let your authentic voice shine through!

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How To Get Into Oxford University - Requirements & Tips

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 11/24/23

Want to know how to get into Oxford University? This article will help get you started. 

Securing a place at the University of Oxford is a goal that has beckoned generations of bright minds, enticing them with the promise of unparalleled academic rigor, historical prestige, and an intellectual environment that thrives on excellence. 

Yet, beneath the breathtaking spires and the hallowed halls of this renowned institution lies a challenge that has stood the test of time: the formidable journey to gain admission. The pursuit of a spot at Oxford University is an arduous and competitive endeavor that demands not only exceptional intellect but also a unique blend of determination, preparation, and resilience. 

How hard is it to get into Oxford University? Aspiring candidates navigate through a labyrinth of entry requirements in an intricate selection process that collectively underscores the formidable nature of the quest to attend Oxford University. 

Keep reading to learn how to get into Oxford University, including a breakdown of the entry requirements and tips on how to give you a better chance of acceptance.

Oxford Acceptance Rate 

The acceptance rate at Oxford University is between 15% and 17.5% for undergraduate programs and 30% for postgraduate programs. While the exact rate varies from year to year, this low percentage is a symbol of the institution's selective nature and reflects its commitment to maintaining academic excellence. 

How Hard Is It to Get Into Oxford?

Gaining admission to the University of Oxford is an extraordinarily challenging endeavor that demands nothing short of exceptional dedication, intellectual prowess, and meticulous preparation. 

The university's global prestige and historical significance attract a wide pool of national and international applicants, creating intense competition for a limited number of available positions. With a commitment to nurturing the brightest minds, Oxford employs a multifaceted evaluation process that includes rigorous academic assessments, probing personal statements, and, often, intensive interviews. 

What Are the Oxford Entry Requirements?

Navigating the path to the illustrious University of Oxford involves more than just aspirations and ambition. Gaining entry requires an understanding of the intricate web of Oxford University entry requirements. 

In this section, we look further into the entry requirements for Oxford, including your personal statement, supplemental essays, and entrance interviews you’ll need to apply to Oxford.

Oxford Personal Statement

At the heart of Oxford’s application process is the personal statement—a concise yet pivotal element that gives applicants a unique opportunity to showcase their passion, intellect, and suitability for their chosen course of study. 

The requirements for Oxford's personal statement extend beyond a list of achievements; they demand a thoughtful reflection on the applicant's academic journey, extracurricular engagements, and personal experiences that have fueled their desire to pursue higher education. 

A well-crafted personal statement not only reveals an applicant's commitment to their chosen field but also provides insights into their capacity for critical thinking, independent research, and the potential to contribute meaningfully to the academic community.

Oxford Supplemental Essays

In addition to the demanding academic standards and personalized personal statement, Oxford University introduces another layer of introspection through its supplemental essays . These essays serve as windows into an applicant's ability to engage with complex ideas, showcase independent thought, and demonstrate their intellectual compatibility with the Oxford environment. 

While the content and prompts for these essays can vary across disciplines, they consistently challenge applicants to delve into subjects beyond the scope of their academic transcripts, inviting them to explore their perspectives on thought-provoking questions or engage with real-world issues through a scholarly lens. 

Oxford Interviews

The Oxford admission interviews represent a pivotal phase in the application journey, where the university's commitment to academic rigor and intellectual inquiry takes center stage. The interviews are designed to assess not only an applicant's depth of understanding but also their ability to think on their feet, articulate complex ideas, and engage in intellectual discourse. 

Conducted by experts in the respective fields, these interviews are characterized by their challenging nature, often requiring candidates to approach unfamiliar concepts with confidence and adaptability. 

Oxford University has a unique teaching style in which classes are often taught in small groups or by tutors. The Oxford interview gives faculty an idea of if you would thrive in this type of learning environment. Students will often go through more than one interview before they are accepted. Since students can be interviewed from anywhere in the world, they are also often done online. 

Tuition and Funding Opportunities

Enrolling at the University of Oxford opens the door to a world-class education, but financial considerations can be a significant aspect of the decision-making process. Oxford's tuition fees (between £28,950 and £44,240 for international students) can vary based on factors such as the chosen course of study and the applicant's residency status. 

However, the university is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that financial constraints do not deter promising candidates from pursuing their academic aspirations. Oxford provides an array of funding opportunities , including scholarships, grants, and bursaries, designed to support students at various stages of their academic journey. 

What Does Oxford Look For?

When reviewing applicants , the University of Oxford seeks individuals who embody not only exceptional academic achievements but also a deep passion for learning, intellectual curiosity, and the potential to contribute meaningfully to the academic community. Oxford values candidates who exhibit a strong work ethic, independent thinking, and a genuine enthusiasm for their chosen field of study. 

Beyond academic prowess, the university looks for applicants who can demonstrate their ability to engage in critical analysis, innovative thought, and effective communication. The holistic approach to selection means that personal attributes, such as determination, resilience, and a commitment to personal growth, also play a significant role.

Oxford University Requirements for International Students

Many US applicants apply with the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Admission decisions are based on an overall points score, considering individual scores in each of the Higher-level subjects. Students are required to have scores between 38-40 to be considered for admission.

In an ever-connected world where borders blur and cultures intermingle, the University of Oxford attracts students from all corners of the earth. 

However, for international students, the path to Oxford comes with a distinct set of considerations and requirements. Navigating the intricacies of admissions as an international applicant involves not only meeting rigorous academic standards but also addressing visa regulations, language proficiency, and potential cultural adjustments. 

In this section, we delve into the specialized requirements for the European Baccalaureate, International Baccalaureate, and International A-Level programs.

European Baccalaureate

Recognizing the rigors and comprehensive nature of the European Baccalaureate curriculum, the University of Oxford seeks candidates who have excelled in this educational framework.

Apart from the requisite academic achievements, such as the scores obtained in the various subjects, Oxford also places emphasis on language proficiency, given the multilingual nature of the European Baccalaureate program. 

The current requirement for a European Baccalaureate is an average of 85% or above. Your A-levels (or equivalent) are also required to have a score between 8 and 9. 

International students are also encouraged to provide a personal statement that reflects their passion for their chosen field of study and their alignment with the values of Oxford's academic community.

International Baccalaureate

For international students hailing from the globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) program, the path to securing a place at the University of Oxford entails a meticulous alignment of academic excellence and a holistic approach to learning. 

Oxford acknowledges the rigorous and interdisciplinary nature of the IB curriculum and values candidates who have demonstrated exceptional aptitude within this educational framework. Beyond the mandatory subject-specific requirements, Oxford places emphasis on the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge components of the IB.

While the requirements for each course vary slightly, Oxford asks for a total score between 38 and 40. They also ask for scores of 6 or 7 in select higher-level courses. 

Language proficiency is also a key consideration, given the international student body at Oxford. Moreover, prospective applicants are encouraged to craft a personal statement that not only showcases their academic achievements but also conveys their passion for their chosen discipline and their potential to thrive within Oxford's intellectually stimulating environment.

International A-levels

For international students who have pursued their education through the esteemed A-level system, Oxford's requirements reflect the university's commitment to fostering academic excellence and critical thinking. The University of Oxford recognizes the depth and specialization of the A-level curriculum and seeks candidates who have excelled within this framework.

International A-levels are offered by International Education, Cambridge Assessment, Pearson Edexcel, and Oxford AQA. It should be noted, however, that Oxford does not accept some of the A-levels through Cambridge, so you should check for a course-by-course basis. 

Alongside the essential subject-specific prerequisites, Oxford values the development of independent research skills and intellectual curiosity, attributes often cultivated through extended project qualifications or additional coursework. Additionally, international students are encouraged to exhibit strong language proficiency.

Crafting a compelling personal statement that encapsulates not only academic achievements but also a genuine enthusiasm for the chosen field of study can further bolster an applicant's chances. By aligning themselves with Oxford's specialized requirements for A-level students, international applicants can navigate the competitive admissions process with a strong foundation.

Course-Specific Requirements

At the University of Oxford, the pursuit of academic excellence extends beyond generalized admissions criteria, with each course offering its own set of specific requirements that reflect the intricacies of the subject matter. These course-specific prerequisites underscore Oxford's dedication to tailoring its selection process to the distinct aptitudes and skills required in various disciplines. 

Ranging from subject-specific aptitude tests and written work submissions to prerequisite qualifications or interviews, these requirements vary widely, ensuring that applicants possess the necessary foundational knowledge and capabilities to thrive within their chosen field.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Into Oxford

Here are a few tips to increase your chances of getting into Oxford:

1. Academic Excellence : Strive for top grades in your current studies to showcase your proficiency and commitment.

2. Tailored Personal Statement : Craft a personal statement that not only highlights your academic achievements but also demonstrates your passion for your chosen subject and your alignment with Oxford's values.

3. Test and Interview Preparation : Prepare rigorously for any required admissions tests or interviews, honing your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

4. Written Work or Portfolio : Leverage opportunities to submit additional written work or portfolios that showcase your dedication and expertise in your chosen field.

5. Relevant Extracurriculars : Engage in extracurricular activities related to your course of interest, displaying your enthusiasm and proactive nature.

6. Seek Guidance : Consult with teachers, mentors, and others who can provide valuable feedback and insights to strengthen your application.

Following these tips can help you tip the acceptance rate in your favor. 

Should I Apply to Oxford?

Deciding whether to apply to the University of Oxford is a significant choice that hinges on a multitude of factors. If you are driven by a genuine passion for learning and academic exploration, if you thrive in intellectually stimulating environments, and if you are prepared to dedicate yourself to rigorous academic pursuits, then applying to Oxford could be a transformative experience. 

Oxford offers a wealth of opportunities for personal and intellectual growth, with a diverse range of courses taught by world-renowned experts. However, it's important to acknowledge the challenges of the admissions process, including the competitive nature and demanding requirements. 

Assess your academic strengths and your alignment with Oxford's values, and consider whether you are ready to meet the institution's high standards. If you are motivated to excel, eager to engage in critical thinking and independent research , and open to being part of a vibrant and diverse academic community, then applying to Oxford might be for you.

Seek The Help of an Admissions Consultant

Seeking assistance from an admissions consultant when applying to the University of Oxford can provide valuable guidance and insight throughout the intricate application process. Admissions consultants possess in-depth knowledge of Oxford's expectations, nuances, and requirements, enabling them to help you craft a strong and compelling application. 

They can offer personalized advice on aspects like selecting the right courses, refining your personal statement, preparing for admissions tests or interviews, and presenting your extracurricular achievements effectively. 

Admissions consultants can also help you understand how to highlight your unique strengths and experiences to enhance your chances of standing out in a competitive pool of applicants . While utilizing an admissions consultant can be beneficial, it's important to ensure they have a proven track record of success and that they enhance your authentic voice rather than overshadow it. 

Ultimately, their support can provide a strategic advantage, increasing your confidence and preparedness as you embark on the journey to secure a place at one of the world's most prestigious academic institutions.

Oxford University Admission FAQs

Here are a few common questions on how to get into Oxford University.

1. How Many Colleges Are in Oxford?

The University of Oxford is composed of a total of 39 colleges and six permanent private halls. These colleges are autonomous, self-governing entities that make up the academic and social fabric of the university.

Each college has its own unique history, traditions, and culture, offering students a distinct sense of community and support within the larger university environment. The colleges play a vital role in providing accommodations, tutorial support, and fostering a sense of belonging for students, contributing to Oxford's rich and diverse educational experience.

2. What Grades Do You Need to Get Into Oxford?

The specific grades required to gain admission to the University of Oxford vary depending on the course of study and the applicant's educational background. Oxford is renowned for its stringent academic standards, generally expecting applicants to have achieved top grades in their respective educational systems. 

For A-level students, AAA or higher is often considered a competitive benchmark. International Baccalaureate (IB) students are typically expected to have a score of 38 to 40 points or higher, depending on the course. Other international qualifications are also considered with equivalent rigor. 

It's important to note that grades alone are not the sole criteria; Oxford places great emphasis on a candidate's potential, passion for the subject, and ability to engage in critical thinking and independent research. 

3. Which Is Better, Oxford or Cambridge?

The question of whether Oxford or Cambridge is better is a subject of ongoing debate, and the answer largely depends on individual preferences and priorities. Both universities have centuries of history, outstanding academic reputations, and offer exceptional educational experiences. 

Oxford and Cambridge share a similar tutorial system and have world-class faculties, making them highly esteemed institutions globally. However, there are nuanced differences in terms of course offerings, teaching styles, and campus atmospheres. 

Oxford is often associated with a more flexible course structure and a diverse range of subjects, while Cambridge is noted for its slightly larger science and engineering departments. Ultimately, the choice between Oxford and Cambridge should be based on the specific academic, extracurricular, and personal factors that matter most to the individual student. 

Both universities provide an unparalleled opportunity for intellectual growth and personal development, and the decision between them is a matter of finding the best fit for one's aspirations and preferences.

4. How Many Students Are at Oxford University?

Currently, there are over 26,000 students attending Oxford . This number encompasses both undergraduate and postgraduate students across various disciplines and colleges within the university. 

5. How Much Does Oxford University Cost for International Students?

The cost of attending Oxford University as an international student can vary depending on factors such as the course of study, the duration of the program, and the applicant's country of residence. International students could expect to pay tuition fees ranging from approximately £28,950 and £44,240 per year .

Additionally, students should budget for living expenses, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and study materials. Scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available to help offset the costs for eligible international students. 

6. How Many UCAS Points Do You Need for Oxford?

The University of Oxford does not typically use the UCAS points system for its admissions process. Instead, Oxford focuses on specific academic requirements and rigorous assessment methods tailored to each course. 

While UCAS points may be used by some universities in the UK as a way to quantify and compare different qualifications, Oxford places greater emphasis on factors such as academic achievement, admissions tests, interviews, and personal statements. 

As such, aspiring applicants should closely review the specific entry requirements for their chosen course on Oxford's official website, as well as any additional criteria, to determine the expectations and prerequisites for successful admission.

7. When Does Oxford Interview Offers Come Out?

Oxford interview offers are typically released in early to mid-December for most courses. The specific dates can vary slightly from year to year, and it's important to note that not all applicants are invited to an interview. 

The interview is a crucial part of the admissions process for Oxford, where candidates have the opportunity to showcase their academic abilities, critical thinking, and potential to excel within the university's rigorous academic environment. 

If you have applied to Oxford, it's recommended to keep a close eye on your application portal and email notifications in the weeks leading up to the typical interview offer period to ensure you don't miss any important updates regarding your application status.

8. What Is Oxford University Known for?

Oxford University is renowned worldwide for its long-standing tradition of academic excellence, rigorous scholarly inquiry, and historical significance. It is recognized as one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, with a history dating back to the 12th century. 

Oxford is celebrated for its commitment to fostering independent thinking, critical analysis, and intellectual curiosity across a wide range of disciplines. The university's tutorial system, which involves one-on-one or small-group teaching, is a hallmark of its pedagogical approach, allowing students to engage deeply with their subjects. 

Oxford's rich intellectual environment has produced countless influential thinkers, Nobel laureates, and world leaders who have made significant contributions to various fields. Additionally, the university's stunning architecture, libraries, and museums contribute to its allure as a cultural and academic center.

Final Thoughts

In the pursuit of gaining admission to Oxford University, the journey is as challenging as it is rewarding. Navigating the intricate web of entry requirements, academic standards, and distinctive assessment methods demands not only exceptional intellectual prowess but also unwavering dedication, preparation, and authenticity. 

Crafting a compelling personal statement, excelling in academic achievements, and preparing diligently for admissions tests and interviews are all essential components. Yet, beyond the checkboxes, the essence of success lies in the embodiment of Oxford's values—passion for learning, critical thinking, and the aspiration to contribute to a diverse and vibrant academic community. 

As you embark on this quest, remember that each applicant's journey is unique, and the pursuit of excellence extends beyond the admissions process itself. The transformative potential of an Oxford education lies not only in gaining a place within its hallowed halls but in the lifelong pursuit of knowledge and the empowerment to make a lasting impact on the world.

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Emory Supplemental Essays 2024-25 — Prompts and Tips

July 29, 2024

Emory’s 15% acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 came after they received approximately 35,000 applicants for admission, numbers that have held steady over the past several years. Whether applying to Emory College, Oxford College, or both, applicants to this prestigious Atlanta-based research university face an epically challenging admissions process ahead. Emory is a rare school where a 1500ish SAT and 3.9 GPA are often necessary, but not sufficient for admission. In addition, application components like the Emory supplemental essays need to be exceptionally well done.

(Want to learn more about How to Get Into Emory? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into Emory University: Admissions Data and Strategies  for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

The good news is that this school does ultimately admit over 5,000 students each year. If you have the academic chops, then getting into Emory is an achievable goal. However, you’ll need to make sure that you use the two supplemental essays to showcase your writing ability by generating powerful and detail-rich essays that will stand out to an admissions officer.

Emory Supplemental Essays Prompt 1 – Academic Interests

What academic areas are you interested in exploring at Emory University and why ? (200 words)

We all have a story of what drives us to pursue a certain academic pathway and career. How did your interest initially develop? What was the spark? How have you nurtured this passion and how has it evolved over time? If you desire to go into engineering, for example, use this as a chance to talk about everything from your childhood fascination with how things work to your participation in an award-winning robotics program at your high school. Share a compelling narrative about how your love of your future area of study has blossomed to its present levels.

In addition to the above, Emory also wants to know why you desire to pursue your studies at their institution. Tie your passions into specific  academic opportunities  at Emory including courses, professors,  hands-on research programs , or any other aspects of your desired major that appeal most to you. The more specific, the better.

Emory Supplemental Essays Prompt 2 – Getting to Know You

In addition, answer one of the following questions.  Your response should be no more than 150 words.

In the university’s own words, “We encourage you to be thoughtful in your responses and not stress about what the ‘right answer’ might be, as there really isn’t one.”

a) Which book, character, song, monologue, or piece of work (fiction or non-fiction) seems made for you? Why?

What is your favorite (or most thought-provoking) book, character, monologue, or piece of short fiction or nonfiction? Why do you identify with it? Is it the protagonist’s tenacity, empathy, sense of justice, big heart, humor, resilience, uncompromising integrity, loyalty, self-awareness, or courage? Is it the overall theme, topic, or life lesson? Use the 150 available words to explain the powerful connection you feel to your answer. If you go the song route, explain why you connect so deeply with the music and lyrics.

b) Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.

Some students may have more direct experiences related to cultural awareness than others. But—no matter your background—this is an opportunity to demonstrate that you care about justice and fairness in your local community as well as the global community. If applicable, speak about a time when you spoke up for a peer in a moment of need. Alternatively, you could describe an instance when you became involved in a larger cause or movement. This could be in the realm of politics, activism, or volunteer work.

If you don’t happen to have a deeply personal story to tell in this realm, you’ll probably want to select a different prompt. While there’s nothing wrong with simply articulating your basic beliefs in the values of inclusion, equity, tolerance, and diversity, it doesn’t necessarily make for the most compelling essay, particularly when the school is asking for a specific “experience.”

Emory Supplemental Essays (Continued)

C) emory university’s unique mission calls for service to humanity. share how you might personally contribute to this mission of service to humanity..

To truly understand where Emory is coming from with this question, one needs to look no further than the school’s own mission statement: “Emory University’s mission is to create, preserve, teach, and apply knowledge in the service of humanity.”

If you have been involved in some type of charitable/community service endeavor throughout your high school years, this is a great opportunity to speak about that venture in more detail. Looking forward, how might you continue the work you’ve been doing? You can also connect your aspirations in this realm to specific service opportunities that are available at Emory.

d) Emory University has a strong commitment to building community. Tell us about a community that you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better.

“Community” can be defined in myriad ways: it could be large-scale, like an ethnic, religious, or neighborhood community, or small-scale, like a group of individuals who gather for a club, sport, or service project.

Most applicants to Emory are involved in at least one “community.” You may be the captain of a team, the editor-in-chief of your school paper, a member of your town’s trail clean-up team…but don’t just rest on those laurels—instead, bring your involvement to life. Use your writing ability to show  what type of community member you are rather than merely  telling . What is your role within your chosen community? Within that role, how do you lead, guide, or interact with others? What have you learned and how have you grown? How have you positively impacted your chosen community? Strive for personal detail here rather than re-hashing your resume.

How important are the Emory supplemental essays?

Emory views six factors as being “very important” to their applicant evaluation process. They are: the rigor of one’s coursework, the GPA earned, recommendations, character/personal qualities, extracurricular activities, and talent/ability. The essays are “important,” alongside standardized test scores and volunteer work.

Want personalized assistance with the Emory supplemental essays?

If you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your Emory supplemental essays, we encourage you to  get a quote  today.

Need additional writing resources? Consider checking out the following:

• Common App Essay Prompts
• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• How to Quickly Format Your Common App Essay
• Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
• How to Write the Community Essay
• College Essay

Dave Bergman

Dave has over a decade of professional experience that includes work as a teacher, high school administrator, college professor, and independent educational consultant. He is a co-author of the books The Enlightened College Applicant (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) and Colleges Worth Your Money (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020).

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Everything You Need To Know About The Supplemental Essays

What Is Supplemental Essay?

How to Write Supplemental Essays

Supplemental Essay Questions

Mistakes to Avoid

supplemental-essays-for-each-university

Besides the Coalition App or Common App essay, universities generally ask for supplemental essays specific to that university. These supplemental essays are crucial for a stand-out application, and you'll want yours to be impressive.

So, what is a supplemental essay? Why is it important? And more importantly, how do you go about writing one? Let's dive deep into these questions and explore everything you need to know about supplemental essays!

What Is a Supplemental Essay?

A supplemental essay is an additional written response required by many colleges and universities as part of the application process, in addition to the Coalition App or Common App essay .

Generally, colleges will have their own prompts that applicants answer to create multiple short essays.

These essays are submitted in addition to the main essay with your Coalition or Common Application . The purpose of these essays is to provide the admissions committee with more insight into your personality, interests, and suitability for their student body and campus.

How To Write a Good Supplemental Essay

While different universities might have different criteria or might look for different things in your essay, there are common guidelines to follow when writing a supplemental essay.

1. Prepare Before You Write

• Review the application requirements and prompts from every university you’re considering attending.
• Think about each topic and how it might relate to your background or a specific experience in your life.
• Rather than trying to fit your entire life story into the essay, consider a period, simple event, or piece of your childhood that gives the reader thoughtful insight into who you are as a person.

If you still can’t decide on an angle, consider asking others what they think makes you stand out or what’s unique about your personality or interests. That might spark a new idea or, at a minimum, get you thinking about the topics with a fresh perspective.

2. Start Brainstorming Your Supplemental Essay

If you’re still unsure how to start writing your college essay, just start writing. Don’t think, just write. It doesn’t even have to be the first draft. You’re just dumping ideas on a page, hoping a brilliant thought will jump off. Some of the best work starts this way!

3. Format Your Supplemental Essay

Generally, there’s no right or wrong way to format your college application essay , but there are common tried and true practices. Review your target university’s requirements and essay examples to see how successful applicants formatted their essays.

You’ve written plenty of papers over the years. Think about your writing process. How did you start those essays? Did you create an outline or just start writing? Did you start with a hook or write it at the end?

4. Don’t Be Afraid of a Common Topic

College essays have been around for decades. Choosing a unique topic is not only intimidating but extremely difficult. Instead of selecting a unique topic, pick one that excites you. As you read a topic, are you forming the essay in your head? Does a specific experience or hobby come to mind? Then, that’s your topic!

Many applicants who think they have to choose a unique topic will miss the opportunity to showcase how they think and what they value because they are trying to write too “outside the box.” Your essay should be thoughtful and tell the reader more about YOU.

5. Use Your Authentic Voice

Use an authentic, conversational voice in your college application essay rather than using the academic voice you used on many of your high school papers.

Don’t try to impress the admissions officers with big words and avoid derogatory words and cliche phrases. Be you. That’s what they want to read.

6. Word Count Matters, But It’s Not All that Matters

Some applicants feel like they need to use every word available. Others struggle to meet the minimum word count requirements. Most experts agree that the best college essays are about 500 words.

If you’re close to that number and satisfied with your essay, stop writing. Admissions officers can tell if you’re adding fluff to fill space or giving minimal effort to your essay.

7. Edit and Edit Again

Every word counts when you only have 250-600 words. It’s important to be concise, coherent, and honest in your writing. That doesn’t always happen in the first draft.

Once you’re confident with your essay, try to find an expert to edit it. Ask a teacher, school counselor, or someone with an advanced degree to review the piece. Have someone check it first for content. They should make sure the essay doesn’t confuse them and they don’t have questions.

A great way to perfect your essay is by having an expert take a look at it. Former admissions officers of top universities work with Crimson to ensure our students submit stand-out essays.

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The Different Types of Supplemental Essay Questions

Broadly speaking, there are eight main supplemental essay types . Below we explore these types AND offer some Top Tips on how to answer them!

1. The "Why us? / Why you?" Question

For a "why us" prompt, your focus should be on

• What does the school offer?
• How does it align with your interests, passions, and values?

The college is asking you: “Why are you choosing us?” For a "why you" essay, your focus should be on:

• Your interests, passions, and values
• How they align with the school’s offerings. The college is asking you: “Why should we choose you?”

How To Answer This Question?

The ‘Why us’ / ‘Why you’ questions are two sides of the same coin, but the order in which you present the items, and the amount of the essay you spend on them is reversed for each.

Ultimately, your goal with this essay should be to sincerely, authentically, and excitedly tell admissions committees what you will get out of going to their school in particular, and what you will contribute to their school as a student there.

Which specific opportunities will you take advantage of? How will you bring your skills and past experiences to bear as a leader and collaborator on their campus?

Top 3 "Why This School?" Essay Tips

2. The Academic Interest Essay

These essays ask you to explain your intended choice of major, or if you don’t have one, your academic interests in general. They are typically short answer questions — with universities often asking for responses in 150–250 words.

When answering this prompt you must address three questions:

• Why you want to study your elected future major (or if you are undecided, you’ll need to write about your primary areas of academic interest)?
• What your your goals are for the future?
• How pursuing this course of study will help you to achieve them?

You don’t need to know exactly what you plan to do in the future, but it’ll make your essay a lot stronger to have a few ideas and try to develop those ideas with a bit of detail!

3. Describe an Extracurricular

Tell us about an extracurricular activity you’re involved in and how it has shaped you. Once again these questions normally ask for a 150–250 word response. In these essays you explore one of your extracurriculars in greater depth.

In this essay, it’s more important to talk about something that matters to you than it is to talk about something that is impressive. With this question, admissions officers want to know

• Which item on your activities list is most important to you, and why?
• What is something about your participation in that activity that we can’t learn elsewhere on your application?
• What you have learned through your experience doing that activity that you can take into the future?
• How this extracurricular positively impacts others and/or embodies your values?

4. The Meaning of Community

Colleges may word these questions somewhat like this: “Our college campus is all about community and valuing a diverse group of people. In what ways do you value community? How have you contributed to communities in the past? What would you bring to our community?”

As you can see, in this case you need to narrow it down to what you would bring to this specific university’s community.

In asking this question, admissions officers are trying to find out: What in particular does our school have to offer that you’d like to get involved in as a future student? And what will you contribute or bring to the table as a student on our campus?

In answering these questions you must show how your past experience as part of a community informs what you’ll contribute.

My Brown Supplemental Essay

5. The Second Common App Essay

These essays can vary in content just like the Common App essay , and they are similar in length (500-650 words). They might ask you to write about

• A person who has inspired you
• An experience that has shaped how you approach the world
• A quote that prompts you to share your own personal interpretations and perspectives

This supplemental essay type typically asks you to write a 500–650 word piece using a usually broad prompt to guide your answer. Writing this essay is like writing a second Common App essay — but you must be sure to pick a new topic that explores a new area of your past, interests, personality or attributes.

6. Short Takes

Some colleges ask you to provide brief descriptions of yourself or things you like in 100 words or less — sometimes without even using complete sentences. They might ask for

• What two adjectives your friends would use to describe you?
• Your favorite word?
• What your favorite snack is?
• Who (living or dead) would you like to ask a question to, and what would you ask them?
• If you were teaching a class, what it’d be called?

These short answer questions can be hard to tackle! Top tips include: answer the question, but don’t repeat it, consider the underlying message you are sending, explain your answer and be specific!

7. The Write a Letter to Your Future Roommate Prompt

This prompt is pretty self-explanatory, with the aim of it being for admissions officers to gauge what you will bring to campus as an enthusiastic, passionate, intellectual and empathetic member of the college community.

They can be creative, humorous, reflective, inspirational — whatever theme and style reflects your personality best.

These questions provide a great opportunity to show what you will bring to campus on a micro level. Will you be the ball of energy that exudes positivity, or the reflective listener who is always there to lend a helping hand?

This question must be handled with honesty and reflect a side of yourself that will provide a true insight into to who you are beyond the classroom.

8. Miscellaneous Prompts

These are the creative or otherwise unusual prompts :

• Design a major
• Design a class
• What do you do for fun?”
• Choose an image that represents you
• What gets you excited about learning?

They typically vary in length and style. While not common, they can be great fun for applicants to respond to!

These questions vary, but some basic tips include: be personal (go deep!), be humble (no bragging!), be intellectually curious (show your love of learning), and be genuine (no platitudes or clichés).

3 Mistakes To Avoid in Your Supplemental Essay

1. repeating information.

You’ve already told admissions officers about your grades , test scores, extracurricular activities , and awards. Give them new information.

Tell them something they don’t already know. They want to see what kind of student you will be and how you will contribute to their campus community.

2. Starting With a Dull Sentence

If you start your essay by explaining what it will be about, you’ve already lost your audience. The first sentence is the best opportunity to grab the reader’s attention. Jump right in! They’ll be excited to be part of the journey.

3. Being perfect

The real you isn’t perfect, so why would the person in your essay be perfect? Your essay is about a complicated person who makes mistakes and overcomes adversity. Colleges want to see the authentic, flawed, hopeful, and determined YOU!

What Are the Supplemental Essays for Each University?

To learn more about each university’s Supplemental Essay prompts and how to answer them, check out our blogs, providing you with expert tips and strategies on how to answer them!

• Brown Supplemental Essay
• U Chicago Supplemental Essay
• Columbia Supplemental Essay
• Cornell Supplemental Essay
• Dartmouth Supplemental Essay
• Duke Supplemental Essay
• Harvard Supplemental Essay
• MIT Supplemental Essay
• U Michigan Supplemental Essay
• Northwestern Supplemental Essay
• Penn Supplemental Essay
• Princeton Supplemental Essay
• Stanford Supplemental Essay
• USC Supplemental Essay
• Yale Supplemental Essay

Final Thoughts

These tips are the foundation for writing great supplemental essays that enhance your college applications. However, these essays are only one piece of the package you’ll deliver when you click "‘submit." To learn how Crimson can help you tick all the boxes for a strong college application, click the link below and schedule a free one-hour consultation with one of our academic advisors .

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About the Contributor

Crimson Education Strategists

Our Crimson strategists are top graduates from the world's most prestigious universities, including Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Oxford, and Cambridge. They bring their firsthand experience and deep insights to stay ahead of the curve in college admissions, providing you with the most up-to-date strategies for success.

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Colleges Without Supplemental Essays 2021-2022

We recommend that most students apply to 8-12 colleges —typically at least two safeties, four targets, and two reaches. This strategy boosts a student’s odds of getting into multiple schools, increases their options, and even offers leverage to negotiate for more financial aid. 

Unfortunately, applying to this many schools is time-intensive, especially considering that many schools require supplemental essays as part of their application. Applying to 10 colleges could mean that you need to write 10-20 extra essays! Luckily, there are many schools that don’t have any extra essays beyond the Common App essay or personal statement, if you’re looking for schools to balance out your list without the additional writing.

Below is a list of 45 liberal arts colleges and universities without essay supplements. The list isn’t comprehensive, but it covers a spectrum of schools of varied selectivity. The list does not include any schools with optional essays, which are something we always encourage applicants to complete. 

Top Liberal Arts Colleges Without a Supplemental Essay Requirement

Update: We removed Grinnell College and Colgate University from this list because they’ve historically sent optional supplements to students after they applied.

Top Research Universities Without a Supplemental Essay Requirement

Should You Only Apply to Schools With No Supplement?

Applying only to schools with no supplement would limit your options severely, so we don’t recommend it. That said, supplements can serve as a litmus test for how much you care about a particular college. If you’re really excited to attend a particular college, you’re more likely not to mind extra application work (after all, it’s a chance to show a college why they should accept you). Conversely, if you’re turned off by writing a supplemental essay, it could indicate that you’re not as excited about a school as you thought you were.

Some essay prompts also give you insight into the personality of a college. For example, the University of Chicago is known for its quirky essay prompts—the 2021-2022 supplement has applicants explore ideas like What if the moon were made of cheese? and What’s so easy about pie? If UChicago’s unorthodox essay prompts make you cringe, it’s a possible sign that the school’s culture isn’t right for you. If they excite and inspire you, you could be a perfect fit.

Overall, a college’s essay requirements should not be a major deciding factor as to whether or not you apply to a school (unless you’re truly short on time). What’s most important is whether or not you will fit with the school academically and socially . Consider things like:

• Do you match the stats for admitted students? 
• Does the school offer strong programs in your areas of interest? 
• Are there resources to support your unique values and pursuits outside of the classroom? 
• Is the school located somewhere desirable for you? 

What Are Your Chances of Acceptance at these Schools?

If you’re trying to round out your school list, it’s important to know whether a particular school is a reach, target, or safety. CollegeVine can help! Our free chancing engine considers factors such as your grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities to estimate your odds at hundreds of colleges across the country, along with providing tips to strengthen your profile.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Essay and dissertation writing skills

Planning your essay

Writing your introduction

Structuring your essay

• Writing essays in science subjects
• Brief video guides to support essay planning and writing
• Writing extended essays and dissertations
• Planning your dissertation writing time

Structuring your dissertation

• Top tips for writing longer pieces of work

Advice on planning and writing essays and dissertations

University essays differ from school essays in that they are less concerned with what you know and more concerned with how you construct an argument to answer the question. This means that the starting point for writing a strong essay is to first unpick the question and to then use this to plan your essay before you start putting pen to paper (or finger to keyboard).

A really good starting point for you are these short, downloadable Tips for Successful Essay Writing and Answering the Question resources. Both resources will help you to plan your essay, as well as giving you guidance on how to distinguish between different sorts of essay questions. 

You may find it helpful to watch this seven-minute video on six tips for essay writing which outlines how to interpret essay questions, as well as giving advice on planning and structuring your writing:

Different disciplines will have different expectations for essay structure and you should always refer to your Faculty or Department student handbook or course Canvas site for more specific guidance.

However, broadly speaking, all essays share the following features:

Essays need an introduction to establish and focus the parameters of the discussion that will follow. You may find it helpful to divide the introduction into areas to demonstrate your breadth and engagement with the essay question. You might define specific terms in the introduction to show your engagement with the essay question; for example, ‘This is a large topic which has been variously discussed by many scientists and commentators. The principal tension is between the views of X and Y who define the main issues as…’ Breadth might be demonstrated by showing the range of viewpoints from which the essay question could be considered; for example, ‘A variety of factors including economic, social and political, influence A and B. This essay will focus on the social and economic aspects, with particular emphasis on…..’

Watch this two-minute video to learn more about how to plan and structure an introduction:

The main body of the essay should elaborate on the issues raised in the introduction and develop an argument(s) that answers the question. It should consist of a number of self-contained paragraphs each of which makes a specific point and provides some form of evidence to support the argument being made. Remember that a clear argument requires that each paragraph explicitly relates back to the essay question or the developing argument.

• Conclusion: An essay should end with a conclusion that reiterates the argument in light of the evidence you have provided; you shouldn’t use the conclusion to introduce new information.
• References: You need to include references to the materials you’ve used to write your essay. These might be in the form of footnotes, in-text citations, or a bibliography at the end. Different systems exist for citing references and different disciplines will use various approaches to citation. Ask your tutor which method(s) you should be using for your essay and also consult your Department or Faculty webpages for specific guidance in your discipline. 

Essay writing in science subjects

If you are writing an essay for a science subject you may need to consider additional areas, such as how to present data or diagrams. This five-minute video gives you some advice on how to approach your reading list, planning which information to include in your answer and how to write for your scientific audience – the video is available here:

A PDF providing further guidance on writing science essays for tutorials is available to download.

Short videos to support your essay writing skills

There are many other resources at Oxford that can help support your essay writing skills and if you are short on time, the Oxford Study Skills Centre has produced a number of short (2-minute) videos covering different aspects of essay writing, including:

• Approaching different types of essay questions  
• Structuring your essay  
• Writing an introduction  
• Making use of evidence in your essay writing  
• Writing your conclusion

Extended essays and dissertations

Longer pieces of writing like extended essays and dissertations may seem like quite a challenge from your regular essay writing. The important point is to start with a plan and to focus on what the question is asking. A PDF providing further guidance on planning Humanities and Social Science dissertations is available to download.

Planning your time effectively

Try not to leave the writing until close to your deadline, instead start as soon as you have some ideas to put down onto paper. Your early drafts may never end up in the final work, but the work of committing your ideas to paper helps to formulate not only your ideas, but the method of structuring your writing to read well and conclude firmly.

Although many students and tutors will say that the introduction is often written last, it is a good idea to begin to think about what will go into it early on. For example, the first draft of your introduction should set out your argument, the information you have, and your methods, and it should give a structure to the chapters and sections you will write. Your introduction will probably change as time goes on but it will stand as a guide to your entire extended essay or dissertation and it will help you to keep focused.

The structure of  extended essays or dissertations will vary depending on the question and discipline, but may include some or all of the following:

• The background information to - and context for - your research. This often takes the form of a literature review.
• Explanation of the focus of your work.
• Explanation of the value of this work to scholarship on the topic.
• List of the aims and objectives of the work and also the issues which will not be covered because they are outside its scope.

The main body of your extended essay or dissertation will probably include your methodology, the results of research, and your argument(s) based on your findings.

The conclusion is to summarise the value your research has added to the topic, and any further lines of research you would undertake given more time or resources. 

Tips on writing longer pieces of work

Approaching each chapter of a dissertation as a shorter essay can make the task of writing a dissertation seem less overwhelming. Each chapter will have an introduction, a main body where the argument is developed and substantiated with evidence, and a conclusion to tie things together. Unlike in a regular essay, chapter conclusions may also introduce the chapter that will follow, indicating how the chapters are connected to one another and how the argument will develop through your dissertation.

For further guidance, watch this two-minute video on writing longer pieces of work . 

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Cosmos Institute

Your Ideas on Human Autonomy in the AI Age Could Take You to a Feast at Oxford

To celebrate launch week, we are announcing the cosmos essay contest.

Think you can offer a fresh perspective on AI x human flourishing , or new ways to mine the wisdom of the past?

We are pleased to announce the Cosmos Essay Contest , with a prize for the best essay in response to the following question:

How should AI be developed or governed to protect and enhance human autonomy, safeguarding both freedom of thought and freedom of action?

The Essay Prize:

The winner will receive an all-expenses paid trip (travel, accommodations, and ticket valued at up to $2,500) to the inaugural Cosmos Feast at the University of Oxford’s Museum of Natural History on November 15th, 2024.

This Feast is an exclusive gathering of ~100 visionary leaders in tech, academia, and philanthropy, confronting urgent challenges and charting a course for AI to serve humanity's highest aspirations. 

You'll engage in mind-expanding dialogues, meet inspiring leaders and new collaborators, and enjoy an enchanting black-tie dinner under the dinosaurs at one of the world's most beautiful campuses. 

You will also be invited to join an afternoon symposium prior to the Feast, to explore philosophy and AI research directions that extend human reason and a culture of freedom, both in the present and in the far future.

Key Contest Information:

Entries should be a maximum of 2,500 words in length and are to be submitted as a PDF document through this online form .

The deadline for entries is 11:59 pm CST on Tuesday, October 1st, 2024.

We welcome a blend of philosophical insight with technical vision.

Not a natural writer? We value the quality of ideas over exposition, so don't be deterred if your background is technical or expertise isn't prose.

The winning submission may be published on the Cosmos Substack.

For more details, see the terms and conditions in the online form above.

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Ready for more?

Yale, Cambridge Grad with Years of Application Writing Experience Ryan S.

275 hours tutoring, yale, cambridge grad with years of application writing experience yale, cambridge grad with years of application writing experience ryan s..

Featured Review: See all reviews Attentive and thorough career development tutor! Zoe, 5 lessons with Ryan Working with Ryan on my personal statement for medical school was game-changing. His genius, aptitude, and talent made all the difference for the most central document for my application. After only one brainstorming session he was able to help transform my story into an absolute masterpiece. He was attentive, diligent, and thorough to the most fundamental elements of my narrative. He took notes, asked questions, and probed me to excavate my most important storylines. Additionally, he... Working with Ryan on my personal statement for medical school was game-changing. His genius, aptitude, and talent made all the difference for the most central document for my application. After only one brainstorming session he was able to help transform my story into an absolute masterpiece. He was attentive, diligent, and thorough to the most fundamental elements of my narrative. He took notes, asked questions, and probed me to excavate my most important storylines. Additionally, he completed his own research to provide the statement with contextual information to better connect the hook to my academic interests. Overall, I am more than pleased with Ryan’s attention to detail and care. I would highly recommend him to family, friends, and classmates. Read more

As a Fulbright Scholar, a published author, a graduate of Emory University and Yale University (and recipient of the Dean's Prize for Outstanding Thesis), and as a current MPhil candidate enrolled at the University Cambridge, I have myself written countless application essays for university admissions and submitted dozens of applications for prestigious fellowships and scholarships.

I have a strong track record of writing and editing work. I most recently served as a Graduate Writing...

I have a strong track record of writing and editing work. I most recently served as a Graduate Writing Tutor at Yale's prestigious Poorvu Center for Teaching and Learning, and presently work for a highly sought after college admissions consulting firm that has a proven history of maximizing applicants' chances of gaining admission to their top-choice schools.

As a college admissions consultant/application editor, I have helped students gain admission to top-tier universities like Yale, Columbia, MIT, Princeton, and Brown, and have served as an admissions reader for my alma maters. I look forward to working with you to make your application essays/assignments the best they can be!

I will help you plan, strategize, and revise your college admission application/fellowship/scholarship essays!

I also offer help with: - Personal statements - Cover letters - Transfer application essays - Graduate School application essays - Scholarship/Fellowship application essays - Academic essays - Theses/research essays - Personal essays (creative nonfiction writing)

For college admissions counseling: If you decide to work with me, our first meeting will establish your goals and brainstorm topics to help us craft the main essay for the Common App (your personal statement). I will also disseminate two presentations I have developed—tips compiled after one-on-one meetings with hundreds of students—entitled "Tackling the Admissions Process" and "The Successful Scholarship Hunter” to you, presentations that have proven helpful to my former students in making the admissions process more manageable.

In subsequent meetings, we w

• Hourly Rate: $150
• Lesson cancellation: 24 hours notice required

No background check

• Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Approved Subjects

Career development, public speaking, corporate training, most popular, college counseling, test preparation, questions contact ryan before you book., still have questions, ratings and reviews.

Attentive and thorough career development tutor! Working with Ryan on my personal statement for medical school was game-changing. His genius, aptitude, and talent made all the difference for the most central document for my application. After only one brainstorming session he was able to help transform my story into an absolute masterpiece. He was attentive, diligent, and thorough to the most fundamental elements of my narrative. He took notes, asked questions, and probed me to excavate my most important storylines. Additionally, he completed his own research to provide the statement with contextual information to better connect the hook to my academic interests. Overall, I am more than pleased with Ryan’s attention to detail and care. I would highly recommend him to family, friends, and classmates. Zoe, 5 lessons with Ryan

College Essay Editing Ryan was incredible and made really good edits to my daughter's Common App Essay. We had tried several people, but his were by far the most useful and well crafted edits. Definitely worth the price, no comparison to anyone else! Kerri, 4 lessons with Ryan

Knowledgeable and Professional Tutor I always love my sessions with Ryan. Thus far, he has helped me with my research studies to scholarship essays. He is always thorough and reliable to help me meet my goals! Chanel, 6 lessons with Ryan

Exceptional! Ryan did an amazing job editing my essays. I recommend him with no reservations. Ryan is thorough, easy to work with, and accommodating to schedules. His editing is both substantive and stylistic, and he is able to show one's self-awareness without sounding either self-deprecating or arrogant—perfectly balanced, sensitive without pandering. The work I did with Ryan helped me take my essays to the next level, but more than that, I believe that working with him will also pay off in my ability to respond effectively in upcoming admissions interviews. He is highly professional and has a lot of knowledge about the college admissions process. I recommend him. J, 3 lessons with Ryan

Knowledgeable and enthusiastic We've only connected once so far, but I really enjoyed my time with Ryan. He is attentive, understanding but isn't afraid to highlight ways to improve an existing personal statement. I'm thankful for his expertise. Natalie, 3 lessons with Ryan

Great Teacher Mr. Ryan was extremely helpful and explained all the different ways I could improve my personal statement very clearly. I am very satisfied with this session. Trinh, 5 lessons with Ryan

Extremely knowledgeable and helpful Great tutor. In an hour he set me up perfectly for writing my personal statement. It was clear he knew exactly what he was talking about. Highly recommend hiring him for any help you need. Thomas, 2 lessons with Ryan

Really helpful! I was having difficulty coming up with ideas for my PA School supplemental essay and Ryan helped me a lot. After writing the essay, Ryan went over it with me and helped me clean up any grammatical errors and polish the wording as well. Overall really helpful and highly recommended if you are having trouble with applications because he definitely knows what he’s talking about. Lauren, 2 lessons with Ryan

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Universitetskaya Naberezhnaya (University Embankment)

The architectural ensemble on the University Embankment is rightly recognized as one of the most beautiful in St. Petersburg. On the waterfront, there are magnificent views of the opposite bank of the Neva, the Admiralty, the English Embankment, the dome of St. Isaac's Cathedral, and the landmark monument to Peter the Great, the Bronze Horseman. The construction of the embankment had a powerful influence on later architectural constructions of the 18th century.

The first buildings appeared here soon after the founding of St. Petersburg. There is the palace of Prince Alexander Menshikov, the first stone apartment building in St. Petersburg, and the Palace of Peter II, now owned by St. Petersburg State University. Shortly after this, the Kunstkammer - the first public museum in Russian history, the building of which now houses the Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography of the Peoples of the World - was built on the embankment. The Twelve Colleges building was the idea of Peter I and was supposed to be the main administrative building of the Russian empire. However, for the past two centuries it has been the main building of St. Petersburg State University. Nearby at the Blagoveshchensky (Annunciation) Bridge, Domenico Trezzini, the first architect of Petersburg, built his own house. By the end of the 18th century the waterfront ensemble also included the Academy of Arts by Jean-Baptiste Vallin de la Mothe and the Academy of Sciences by Giacomo Quarenghi.

At the beginning of the 19th century, the Southern Warehouse of the Stock Exchange was built on the waterfront and became part of the ensemble of the Spit of Vasilievsky Island. Today in the warehouse the rich collection of the Zoological Museum is exhibited. At the same time, University Embankment was reinforced with granite and a pier was built in front of the Academy of Arts. Its architect, Konstantin Ton, wanted the pier to be decorated with bronze horses like those designed by Baron Peter Klodt on the Anichkov Bridge. However, after long discussion, authentic Egyptian sphinx sculptures were installed here. The landmark site of the embankment became the Rumyantsev Garden. An obelisk moved from the Field of Mars and dedicated to General Field Marshal Pyotr Rumyantsev and his glorious victories over the Turks in the years 1768-1774 stands here.

From 1840-1842, the Rector's House on the waterfront was used for the needs of St. Petersburg University. In 1880, this house, built by Apollon Schedrin, was the birthplace of the great poet Alexander Blok.

Today University Embankment is constantly filled with tourists and students. Meteor hydrofoils to Peterhof sail from here, along with numerous other pleasure boats. There are also popular restaurants on some of the docked ships, while traffic hurries across Palace Bridge and past the Spit of Vasilievsky Island.

Accommodation near the University Embankment

Trezzini palace hotel, all-suites boutique hotel with a prime location next to the neva river, trezzini art hotel, attractive small hotel located in the heart of historic vasilevskiy island, solo sokos hotel vasilievskiy, superior business hotel with stylish interiors and attractive location, apartments ers nevsky, attractive and well equipped modern rental apartments at great location, friendly and welcoming backpacker hostel with a prime location for sightseeing, nevsky 3 guest house, affordable accommodation steps from palace square and the hermitage, dining near the university embankment, grad petrov, home-brewed beer and affordable german food with great views across the neva, staraya tamozhnya, luxury restaurant with a sterling reputation and charming historic premises, russian kitsch, outrageous interiors and traditional russian cuisine with some modern touches.

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