{"id":4182,"date":"2024-02-09T16:00:48","date_gmt":"2024-02-09T10:30:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/?p=4182"},"modified":"2024-02-09T16:00:48","modified_gmt":"2024-02-09T10:30:48","slug":"common-app-essay-prompts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/common-app-essay-prompts","title":{"rendered":"7 Common App Essay Prompts for 2023-2024 Application Cycle"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The college application season is upon us, and with it comes the inevitable anxiety over essay prompts. While the essay might seem like a terrifying task, it\u2019s actually an incredible opportunity to tell your story and make yourself stand out from the crowd. On the same note, this year\u2019s prompts are not just challenges; they\u2019re opportunities to talk about your unique voice, experiences, and ambitions. But where do you even begin?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Whether you\u2019re a seasoned storyteller or a first-time scribbler, this blog post is your guide to acing the 2023\u20132024 Common App essay prompts. Remember that the best essays aren\u2019t about perfection but about authenticity. In this blog, we\u2019ll talk about each prompt and offer tips to craft an essay that will leave admissions officers wanting more. Stay tuned for prompts, analysis, and writing tips in the following sections!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_67_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/common-app-essay-prompts\/#What_is_a_Common_App_Essay_Prompt\" title=\"What is a Common App Essay Prompt?\">What is a Common App Essay Prompt?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/common-app-essay-prompts\/#7_Common_App_Essay_Prompts_for_2023%E2%80%932024\" title=\"7 Common App Essay Prompts for 2023\u20132024\">7 Common App Essay Prompts for 2023\u20132024<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/common-app-essay-prompts\/#Tips_to_Ace_the_Common_App_Essay_Prompts\" title=\"Tips to Ace the Common App Essay Prompts\">Tips to Ace the Common App Essay Prompts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/common-app-essay-prompts\/#From_the_Desk_of_ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳\" title=\"From the Desk of ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳\">From the Desk of ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/common-app-essay-prompts\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_a_Common_App_Essay_Prompt\"><\/span><strong>What is a Common App Essay Prompt?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The Common App offers seven essay prompts, each posing broad, open-ended questions or statements that invite you to reflect on your personal growth, intellectual challenges, and problem-solving. While some prompts might resonate more with certain applicants, there\u2019s no inherent \u201cbetter\u201d or \u201cworse\u201d choice.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Read Also &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/ivy-league-schools\">Ivy League Schools: Admission Requirements, Eligibility &amp; Fees<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Common_App_Essay_Prompts_for_2023%E2%80%932024\"><\/span><strong>7 Common App Essay Prompts for 2023\u20132024<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Explore the 2023\u20132024 Common App essay options and get expert tips to write a powerful personal statement (250\u2013650 words) that impresses admissions officers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Common App Essay Prompt #1<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">While the prompt might appear as a standard diversity essay question, high school students who don\u2019t identify with traditional diversity topics or simply dislike writing about them might be tempted to ignore it. However, despite the apparent focus on highlighting specific identities, the prompt holds a broader meaning than first meets the eye. Yes, identity remains central, but it extends far beyond mere race, gender, or religious beliefs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Prompt 1 allows you to explore a diverse range of experiences that shape you as a person. This includes but is not limited to, your family\u2019s unique traditions, your most cherished hobbies, and even your talents and passions. If anything about yourself feels fundamentally \u201cyou\u201d\u2014like your hometown, your physical appearance, your favorite leisure activities, what ignites your passion, or even your name\u2014consider exploring it within this essay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Common App Essay Prompt #2<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">College applications often emphasize personal growth but rarely do applicants discuss their failures directly. While it may seem strange, exploring a time you fell short and bounced back can make your essay impactful. After all, admissions officers read countless achievement stories\u2014how often do they encounter genuine vulnerability?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Start by reflecting on experiences where you didn\u2019t meet your goals. Consider setbacks both big and small, getting deep into how you eventually overcame them (or are still learning). The focus here isn\u2019t solely on victory but on the journey of learning and improvement. Sharing a struggle might seem counterintuitive when presenting your best self. Overcoming challenges shows courage, resilience, and perseverance. That\u2019s why the prompt emphasizes a perspective shift. By detailing how your obstacle transformed your outlook, you offer insight into who you are and who you\u2019re becoming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Common App Essay Prompt #3<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">This prompt offers an opportunity to show your personal growth and intellectual curiosity. While discussing your intellectual interests can be valuable, this prompt goes beyond that. It seeks introspection and reflection. Share a personal anecdote where one of your core beliefs about society was challenged, either by a specific person or event. Describe your initial reaction and the subsequent process of internal reflection and potential growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">This prompt is not just about being wrong. Focus on the journey of learning and evolving. Did the challenge lead you to refine your existing belief, adopt a new perspective entirely, or solidify your existing stance with a deeper understanding? Show the admissions committee how you engage in critical thinking and solve conflicting viewpoints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\" wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><a href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/profile-consultation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Web-10-1536x360-17-1024x240.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4193\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Common App Essay Prompt #4<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Colleges want students who bring unique experiences to enrich their campus communities. This prompt is your chance to shine, not by bragging about your achievements but by celebrating the kindness of someone who impacted your life. Think beyond your immediate family and friends. Consider teachers, mentors, peers, or even strangers who crossed your path and left a lasting impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">While you acknowledge their act, do not forget to discuss how it shaped your perspective or inspired your actions. The challenge here is shifting the focus from \u201cwhat they did\u201d to \u201cwhat it did to you.\u201d Don\u2019t just recount the act of kindness; describe how it sparked a change within you. Did it ignite a passion, motivate you to overcome a challenge, or solidify a core value?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The true story lies in your response. What actions did you take in response to their kindness? Did you volunteer, pay it forward, or simply appreciate life with newfound gratitude? Show your initiative and how this experience molded you into a community-minded individual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Common App Essay Prompt #5<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Don\u2019t be fooled by its fifth-place ranking; Prompt 5 is the quintessential Common App essay. While each prompt offers distinct paths, they all share a core requirement: personal growth displayed through a specific event or realization. Even if you choose differently, this fundamental aspect remains key to a compelling essay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Prompt 5 shines a spotlight on the transformative power of a single moment. Unlike other prompts, which might encompass extended periods or evolving understandings, this prompt demands a singular narrative with lasting impact. If you know an anecdote that changed your outlook and actions, this is your perfect platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Common App Essay Prompt #6<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">This prompt isn\u2019t just an invitation to write; it\u2019s a call to share your genuine interests. Colleges want curious minds brimming with questions and a genuine desire to learn. They\u2019re not looking for essays crafted to impress, but for stories that reveal who you are and what ignites your spark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Forget about the \u201cwhat\u201d and talk about the \u201cwhy.\u201d Sure, you can mention your fascinating bird-watching hobby, but what truly compels you to spend hours observing your feathered friends? Does it connect you to nature, teach you about resilience, or offer a glimpse into the intricate balance of our ecosystem? By the end, the admissions officer shouldn\u2019t just be familiar with your topic; they should be familiar with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Common App Essay Prompt #7<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you\u2019ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Prompt 7, \u201cTopic of Your Choice,\u201d offers a blank canvas for students with a clear story in mind, one that doesn\u2019t quite fit any other prompts. This freedom comes with a crucial responsibility: authenticity. Your essay should be a genuine, introspective reflection of your journey. Don\u2019t force a specific theme or topic just for the sake of this prompt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Regardless of your chosen topic, the core principles of a remarkable college essay remain:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Show, don\u2019t tell: Go beyond mere grades and test scores by painting a vivid picture of your character, aspirations, and unique experiences. Admissions officers want to know who you are, not just what you\u2019ve achieved.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Dig deep: Don\u2019t just recount events; talk about the \u201chow\u201d and \u201cwhy\u201d behind them. What lessons did you learn? How did these experiences shape your perspective? This introspection reveals your growth and potential.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Note:<\/strong> While tempting, avoid submitting a pre-written essay, especially an analytical or research-based one. While you can adapt something you wrote for class if it meets the goals of a personal essay, shoehorning it rarely works. Instead, dedicate time to crafting a new essay specifically tailored to the expectations of admissions officers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_to_Ace_the_Common_App_Essay_Prompts\"><\/span><strong>Tips to Ace the Common App Essay Prompts<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The key lies in choosing a prompt that allows you to tell a captivating story of genuine personal significance\u2014an event or experience that deeply impacted you. Explain why it held such meaning, and you\u2019ll craft an essay that stands out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Instead of simply recounting your achievements, narrate your story with vivid details that draw readers into the moment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Skip the resume regurgitation; your grades and extracurriculars can be found elsewhere. Rather, talk about a compelling conflict you faced. Showcase ethical dilemmas, growth moments, and resilience\u2014the ingredients admissions officers crave.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Keep in mind that you\u2019re a stranger to them, so paint a friendly, likable, and thoughtful portrait through specific, unique experiences.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Admissions officers are looking for a unique personality, not a generic applicant. So, ditch the clich\u00e9s and share specific, unique details that paint a vivid picture of your personality and journey.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Focus on telling your most compelling story, not just fitting it into a prompt. If you don\u2019t find a perfect fit, the \u201ctopic of your choice\u201d option is always there!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Read Also: <a href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/best-college-admissions-consultants\">10 Best College Admissions Consultants in the USA<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"From_the_Desk_of_ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳\"><\/span><strong>From the Desk of ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The Common App essay prompts offer flexibility and allow students to showcase their unique stories and voices. This can be incredibly beneficial for applicants with experiences or perspectives that wouldn\u2019t fit neatly into a more restrictive prompt. The open-ended nature also encourages self-reflection and personal growth as students express their experiences and motivations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Some prompts, like \u201cShare your story\u201d or \u201cDescribe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging,\u201d are excellent for showcasing individual passions and experiences. They encourage authenticity and allow students to connect their interests to their academic and personal goals. However, prompts like \u201cReflect on something that someone has done for you\u201d or \u201cDiscuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth\u201d can feel more generic and require careful crafting to avoid sounding formulaic. This is where the importance of careful selection and thoughtful execution comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The success of the Common App essay prompts depends on how students approach them. By choosing a prompt that resonates deeply, reflecting authentically, and crafting a compelling narrative, students can use these prompts to their advantage and create essays that leave a lasting impression on admissions officers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons eplus-wrapper is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\" wp-block-button eplus-wrapper\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-luminous-vivid-orange-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/profile-consultation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Ask Our Experts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\" wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity eplus-wrapper\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Which essay prompt should I pick in the Common App?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The best essay prompt is one that allows you to tell a compelling story that reveals your personality, values, and experiences. Consider what makes you unique, and choose a prompt that lets you highlight those aspects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Do I have to use the same essay for every college?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">No, you can tailor each essay to the specific college\u2019s values and interests. However, ensure consistency in your overall message and avoid major contradictions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>How long should my essay be?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Aim for 650 words maximum, but prioritize quality over quantity. Focus on a compelling story and insightful reflection.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The college application season is upon us, and with it comes the inevitable anxiety over essay prompts. While the essay might seem like a terrifying task, it\u2019s actually an incredible opportunity to tell your story and make yourself stand out from the crowd. On the same note, this year\u2019s prompts are not just challenges; they\u2019re [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4194,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4182","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4182","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4182"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4182\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4194"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4182"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4182"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4182"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}