arizona state university supplemental essays

Arizona State University | ASU

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Arizona State University | ASU’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Common app personal essay.

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

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?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

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?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

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How to Write the Arizona State University Essays 2019-2020

Arizona State University (ASU) is an academic juggernaut, with over 80,000 students currently enrolled. Students apply directly to one of the five campuses spread across the metropolitan Phoenix area, choosing from Tempe, Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, West, and Thunderbird School.

Additionally, 30,000 students enroll in online degree programs and work to complete their schooling from anywhere in the world. Whether students attend in-person or remotely, these “Sun Devils” are dedicated to tackling tomorrow’s challenges using the foundation they built at ASU.

ASU doesn’t require any college-wide essays, but does for the Honors College and the School of Music. Read on if you’re applying to these programs! Want to know your chances at ASU? Calculate your chances for free right now.

For Honors College Applicants

Applicants must select ONE of the following three options and respond in no more than 500 words.

Option A: “A mature person is one who does not think only in absolutes, who is able to be objective even when deeply stirred emotionally, who has learned that there is both good and bad in all people and all things, and who walks humbly and deals charitably.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Maturity is a virtue that we all strive for but often find difficult to obtain. It is a quality that we must acquire at some point in our lives as we become adults. What do you think it means to be a mature person?

Write a well-organized essay in which you describe what you think are some of the qualities that make a person mature.

Option B: We experience many types of relationships with our family and friends during our lifetimes. Some of these relationships survive over the years, while others deteriorate. What qualities are important to learn and develop in order to sustain healthy, lasting relationships?

In a well-developed essay, discuss those qualities that you feel contribute to a healthy relationship. Support your answer with specific details or examples from your own experience or reading.

Option C: Many people have argued that the skills needed to be successful in today’s workforce have changed. What skills do you feel an individual needs to be successful in a job today? Why do you feel these skills are most important?

In an essay to be read by a teacher, identify the skills you feel are most needed by an individual to be successful at work and provide reasons to persuade your teacher that these are the most critical skills for success.

Prompt 1, Option A

“a mature person is one who does not think only in absolutes, who is able to be objective even when deeply stirred emotionally, who has learned that there is both good and bad in all people and all things, and who walks humbly and deals charitably.” —eleanor roosevelt, maturity is a virtue that we all strive for but often find difficult to obtain. it is a quality that we must acquire at some point in our lives as we become adults. what do you think it means to be a mature person write a well-organized essay in which you describe what you think are some of the qualities that make a person mature. (500 words).

The Honors College hopes to enroll students who are the cream of the crop, not only in academics but also in personality. This essay offers you a chance to demonstrate that you are capable of the introspection and insight required to excel in this program. For that reason, your main goal for the essay should be to come across as a thoughtful, mature individual.

As you plan your response, start by breaking down Eleanor Roosevelt’s quotation. To review, she thinks a mature person:

• Does not think only in absolutes
• Is able to be objective even when deeply stirred emotionally
• Has learned that there is both good and bad in all people and all things
• Walks humbly and deals charitably

Do you agree with her assessment? If so, which bullet stands out to you as most true? What experiences in your life have taught you what it means to be mature, according to Roosevelt’s definition?

If your personal definition of maturity would be different, go ahead and share other qualities that you believe make a person mature. For example, maybe taking responsibility for one’s actions, or being there for others are how you define maturity.

No matter what your opinion is, be sure to ground your argument in a personal story. Think of experiences that made you more mature. It could be taking care of your siblings while your parents were at work, making a mistake at your job, or going away to boarding school. 

Alternatively, you can write about someone else and how their example has impacted you. If you do focus on another person in your essay, be sure the reflection still ties the essay back to you. Your readers don’t just want to see how someone else was mature. They want to see how that person’s good example affected you . You should also avoid writing about someone who you consider immature, as this could come off as, well, immature and mean-spirited. 

Prompt 1, Option B

We experience many types of relationships with our family and friends during our lifetimes. some of these relationships survive over the years, while others deteriorate. what qualities are important to learn and develop in order to sustain healthy, lasting relationships, in a well-developed essay, discuss those qualities that you feel contribute to a healthy relationship. support your answer with specific details or examples from your own experience or reading. (500 words).

This prompt has a few hidden questions buried in it. To answer well, you first have to address what makes a relationship healthy in the first place. Is it honesty? Open communication? Trust? Compassion? Respect? A stable power dynamic?

Once you identify what qualities are at play in a healthy relationship, ask yourself what the people in it can do to foster that healthy relationship. Maybe you think having frank conversations helps to cultivate an honest relationship. Alternatively, you may choose to focus on speaking kindly, listening carefully, or making a point of staying in touch.

Most essays will focus on a specific relationship in the applicant’s life. Have you seen a long-term relationship fall to pieces suddenly? Has a healthy relationship ever cropped up in the least likely of places for you? Either of these scenarios make for great essay topics.

In most cases, we recommend against writing about romantic relationships. Unless your story is truly exceptional, consider choosing another relationship to discuss. This is simply because it’s difficult to write about romantic relationships without coming off as juvenile, bitter, or cheesy. 

A few applicants might explore the dynamic at play between two fictional characters. If you do that, it’s important to identify why their story resonates with you.

Regardless of which relationships you use as an example, make sure your finished product reflects how relationships grow and change over time. The admissions committee wants to see that you know how to sustain healthy long-term relationships with your friends, mentors, colleagues, etc. 

Prompt 1, Option C

Many people have argued that the skills needed to be successful in today’s workforce have changed. what skills do you feel an individual needs to be successful in a job today why do you feel these skills are most important, in an essay to be read by a teacher, identify the skills you feel are most needed by an individual to be successful at work and provide reasons to persuade your teacher that these are the most critical skills for success. (500 words).

Unlike the previous two options, this prompt invites you to use your analytical rather than introspective capabilities. The modern workforce incorporates new technology, management strategies, and potential employees every year. While you may not have held a full-time job yet, ASU wants to see that you’ve thought about what future employers may require of you.

We recommend brainstorming several possible answers before settling on one. A number of popular terms, like “technology” and “leadership,” come to mind instantly, so you can be sure that the bulk of essays will be on those topics. Set yourself apart by spending 15 minutes jotting down reflections on which skills you think are most attractive to employers. You’re more likely to identify a more personal and substantial response that way.

Next, you’ll want to gather some evidence. Regardless of which skill you choose to identify as most important, substantiate that claim with case studies, data, or anecdotes. Turning to Forbes, Wired, or the Harvard Business Review is a great way to find support for your argument.

Keep in mind that admissions officers are not looking for any one particular answer. They want to see that you can think deeply. If you can weave in a few ways you have sought to cultivate the skill you recommend, that’s great. At the end of the day, though, your main goal is to demonstrate to your reader that you have an eye to the future and have thought deeply about how to prepare for it.

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Our chancing engine factors in extracurricular activities, demographic, and other holistic details.

Our chancing engine factors in extracurricular activities, demographic, and other holistic details. We’ll let you know what your chances are at your dream schools — and how to improve your chances!

Keep the following in mind. We have a deep interest in knowing why you are considering Barrett, The Honors College. Our admissions committee values intellectual curiosity. The essays will contribute to our assessment of your ability to write effectively, a key skill for success in the honors curriculum. Reply to ONE of the following four prompts in 300-500 words. Your response may be critical or creative.

Option A:   Biologically speaking, whales are mammals. However, author Herman Melville famously claimed that since they look like fish and in most ways behave like fish, they are fish no matter what science says. Defend Melville’s position. 

Option B: Many individuals, groups, and organizations enhance Barrett through their support (scholarship gifts, internship positions, alumni mentorship, etc.). As a student, given these external contributions to the honors college experience, what (if anything) would you owe to others?

Option C: Author Bell Hooks says, “It’s in the act of having to do things that you don’t want to that you learn something about moving past the self. Past the ego.” Reflect on how this quote applies to a particular moment in your life. 

Option D: Water.

Prompt 2, Option A

Biologically speaking, whales are mammals. however, author herman melville famously claimed that since they look like fish and in most ways behave like fish, they are fish no matter what science says. defend melville’s position. (300–500 words).

This definitely makes it onto the list of surprising prompts we have seen. Because most applicants do not sit around contemplating Melville’s opinions on whales, this prompt allows applicants to demonstrate creativity and, for those more scientifically minded, an appreciation for the natural world.

If you want to go all-in on a scientific discussion of how animals are classified, make sure you do your research. In addition to refuting the common scientific understanding of whales, you might also discuss how and why scientists practice taxonomy.

Most students will take this essay in a more abstract direction by exploring the tension between theoretical vs. practical knowledge. Sure, a whale may be a mammal, but it appears in many ways to be a fish. It’s common to find oneself in a situation where theory says one thing but apparent reality says another. What tools do you use to make a decision when theory and practice are misaligned?

Finally, there’s the creative approach. Maybe you do want to defend Melville using his distinctive literary voice. Perhaps a humorous poem about whales is best-suited to your purposes. Or you can write a work of biting satire—the possibilities are endless. 

Whether the scientific, philosophical, or artistic approach is the one for you, we recommend spending a little extra time on this essay. The unusual prompt makes it hard to ace on the first try.

Prompt 2, Option B

Many individuals, groups, and organizations enhance barrett through their support (scholarship gifts, internship positions, alumni mentorship, etc.). as a student, given these external contributions to the honors college experience, what (if anything) would you owe to others (300–500 words).

The vast majority of responses to this question come from students who do feel obliged to give back to the community out of gratitude. If you choose to respond to this prompt, be sure to explain your moral reasoning. Why do you feel it’s your duty to give back?

Make it clear just how you expect to benefit from the generosity of others, using specific examples whenever possible. You can find a handful of examples of alumni mentors on the Alumni Mentorship webpage . You can also find possible internships on the Internships webpage . Address how your aspirations can be met with the help of resources like these.

When you transition to talking about how you hope to give back, include ways you can serve the community both as an undergrad and after you graduate. Are there any clubs, volunteer activities, or student support initiatives you hope to join at Barrett?

Looking ahead, how will your professional pursuits put you in a position to help others? It’s okay to talk about support you will give to other members of society, not just the Barrett community.

Your essay should reflect kindness, thoughtfulness, and a vision for your future. You want your readers’ prevailing emotion after reading your essay to be excitement for who you are becoming and what your future holds.

Prompt 2, Option C

Author bell hooks says, “it’s in the act of having to do things that you don’t want to that you learn something about moving past the self. past the ego.” reflect on how this quote applies to a particular moment in your life. (300–500 words).

The secret to writing a great essay in response to this prompt is to focus on the positive aspects of a negative experience. If you spend too much of your essay describing the awful thing you had to do, the selection committee will write you off as pessimistic. Instead, focus on how the worst of circumstances actually made you a better person in the end. 

For example, maybe your parents pushed you to get a service industry job; you resisted at first since you thought you were overqualified, but you later learned to respect those in the service industry, as the work requires strong interpersonal skills and is physically demanding. Or, maybe your younger sibling insisted on joining you for your runs; you initially were annoyed, but it turned into a great way to bond. 

This essay has a narrative arc built into it—a beginning, middle, and end. Begin with a vivid description of the unpleasant task. How did it come into your life? What makes it unpleasant? Be sure to focus on difficulties of various kinds. Discuss what makes it undesirable not only in the moment, but also in terms of the constraints it puts on your time, emotional energy, or finances.

Once you have established how bad the task is, address how doing it has helped you look outside yourself. What about this activity makes you think about yourself less and others more? When did that shift occur? Be specific—describe the moment you realized you were changing.

From there, zoom out to focus on the bigger picture. In what ways has this shift in attitude altered the way that you view the initially unpleasant task? How will you live differently, now that you have experienced this transformation? Why is it important for people to look past themselves?

You can focus on one of these questions or address several. To finish strong, you’ll want to show that your insights are not limited to this one experience you have described. Demonstrate how you are forever changed as a result of doing something you did not want to do.

Prompt 2, Option D

Water. (300–500 words).

You can tell the prompt writers had fun coming up with this one. “Water” represents a huge challenge, since they have not given you many clues as to what they want out of this essay.

Despite the unorthodox prompt, the Honors College is still looking for the same basic features you would find in any good essay:

• Write clear, coherent content
• Demonstrate a capacity to think deeply
• Be respectful
• Show how you have grown and matured
• Highlight your strengths

Depending on the direction you take this essay, your essay may have some of these characteristics more than others. The first three points are non-negotiable, while the remaining two appear in most—but not all—great essays.

Here are a few ideas for how to write an essay about water:

• For water sport players, describe your relationship with your sport.
• Talk about your memories that occurred in the rain.
• For future marine biologists, explain why you love the study of life underwater.
• Draw comparisons between the chemical nature of water and your own life.
• Explore how the theme of the sea, as addressed in a book you read, spoke to you on a personal level.
• Elaborate on a time you needed water, such as during practice or a marathon.
• Discuss the shortage of clean water in developing countries, why this issue matters to you, and potential solutions.
• Write an aquatic poem!

You should not feel limited by these prompt ideas—they are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of essay topics. A prompt this creative offers you an invitation to think outside the box when writing your response.

React to the following: What do other generations misunderstand about yours? (300–500 words)

There are two potential pitfalls you can fall into when writing an answer to this prompt: being vague and sounding whiny. The question is broad, asking about trends at the generation level. However, your response needs to focus in on something specific and well-substantiated.

Spend a little time identifying what other generations misunderstand about yours. Don’t just go with your gut reaction, as many students are likely to pick whatever is popular, even if they don’t relate to the issue.

Once you have brainstormed an idea that you like, make sure you can think of two or three examples when this misunderstanding has taken place. They can be anecdotal or drawn from studies or readings.

Avoid general statements, such as “All baby boomers think young people are irresponsible.” Instead, build specific claims around the examples you have found. Here’s a better, more detailed way of stating the same claim with an example:

“‘Boys will be boys!’ my grandmother said when my brother was sent home for starting a fight in 7th grade. ‘Boys will be boys!’ again she said when he was caught with contraband at our summer camp. It was her favored refrain, delivered flippantly whenever my mother or I expressed concerns. Grandma accused us of being too cautious, as if his age and gender gave him blanket permission, even compelled him, to misbehave. My good grades, gentle voice, and respect for others were seen by her as an aberration, a discredit to my rough and wily gender. But perhaps I am being too hard on her—after all, Grandma will be Grandma.”

This example is good because it identifies a specific moment when another generation misunderstood something about the writer’s generation, specifically modern boyhood.

Don’t just leave it there with examples. Use them to unpack your ideas. The majority of this essay should be your original ideas. You want to give examples, but don’t let the examples overpower the essay.

Make sure you answer all these questions in the scope of your essay:

• What do other generations misunderstand about yours?
• Why don’t they understand correctly?
• What way is there, if any, for other generations to better understand your own?

For Applicants to the School of Music

Describe your educational background, objectives and future career plans. composition applicants should prepare an additional essay describing previous experience as a composer or arranger and the types of music (e.g., choral, jazz) composed. (300–500 words).

The School of Music prepares students for careers as professional musicians. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that their essay demands a little more professionalism from its applicants. Structure this essay more as a statement of purpose than as a personal reflection.

Begin with your educational background. We recommend making a list of all relevant training and achievements in your musical career to date. There may be instructors, lessons, competitions, groups, or even leisure activities that you take for granted. The School of Music wants a comprehensive and accurate picture of how you approach music generally and your instrument in particular.

Next, take a moment to ask yourself why a music degree is valuable to you. Many successful musicians have no college background—what makes you think this program will set you up for success? It’s better to answer with things that excite you rather than to use fear-based reasoning. “I’m applying so I have a fall-back option if music does not work out,” is NOT a good thing to say in your essay.

As a student, what do you hope to achieve? Your responses can be concrete, like, “I want to learn how to play a new instrument in addition to my current one.” They can also be more abstract—“I will foster meaningful relationships with peers who have a diversity of musical backgrounds.”

In your closing words, paint a picture of your future. Nobody knows what the future holds. The key here is simply to share a vision that excites you. Show the selection committee that you know how to dream, that you’re at least thinking of what lies ahead. No one will hold you to what you write, so feel free to reach for the stars. Leave your admissions officers rooting for you as you try making your dreams a reality.

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

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ASU Graduate College Format Manual

This manual is designed to assist graduate students who must produce a thesis, dissertation or equivalent under the supervision of their committee chair and successfully defend it as part of their degree requirements. This manual identifies Arizona State University’s specific format requirements and contains instructions for meeting these requirements.

Please also refer to a quick reference document Format Checklist for Students  and Format Checklist for Chairs and Co-chairs .

Policy on using Previously Published/Publishable Works

Students who are planning to incorporate a previously published or publishable work in their document should refer to the Policy on using Previously Published or Publishable Work in a Culminating Experience Document .

Every page of your document must meet the margin requirements of 1.25 inches on the left and right, and 1 inch on the top and bottom. All materials including appendices, if you choose to include them, must meet the margin requirements.

Font and size of text

The Graduate College requires that students use one of the TrueType fonts listed below. You should retain the same font and font size throughout your document (preliminary, main text, back matter pages); the only exception is endnotes and footnotes which may be in smaller point size.

* These fonts are designed for easy screen readability and are highly recommended.

** TimesNewRoman (with no spaces between words) differs from the traditional font. Although it is acceptable to use, your manuscript should not switch between TimesNewRoman and Times New Roman as there are distinct differences between the two fonts.

Line spacing

All text must be double-spaced, except: block quotes, appendices, table/figure captions, material in tables, footnotes, endnotes, reference citations, and the optional biographical sketch. You must single-space individual footnotes and reference entries, then double-space between each note and entry.

Consistency

You should make every effort to apply formatting consistently, as indicated by your style guide and this manual, throughout your document. Also, it is important to use terms, abbreviations, word order, capitalization, and punctuation (i.e., hyphenation) consistently in your preliminary matter, main text, and back matter.

Contents and order

Your document must be in the following order:

Copyright page (if document is copyrighted, copyright fee must be paid)

Dedication (optional)

Acknowledgments (optional)

Table of Contents

List of Tables (if tables appear in document)

List of Figures (if figures appear in document)

Other lists (e.g., nomenclature, definitions, glossary of terms, etc.)

Preface (optional; must be less than 10 pages)

Notes (if you have elected to use endnotes)

References (AKA “Bibliography” or “Works Cited”)

Biographical Sketch (optional)

Title page is not paginated

All preliminary pages (title page to preface) are paginated with lowercase Roman numerals; starting with “i” on the abstract

Continue numbering consecutively on the preliminary subsequent pages up to the first page of the main text

All main text and back matter pages are paginated with Arabic numerals consecutively; starting with “1” on the first page (example: Chapter 1 is page 1)

Place all page numbers at the bottom of the page, centered between the left and right margins and directly upon the 1-inch bottom margin

Continue numbering consecutively on the main text/back matter subsequent pages to the end of the document (including appendices)

You may use a footer feature if your software provides one, but be sure that your page numbers are the same font and size as the rest of your text and are set to begin at 1 inch from the bottom edge of the page

Headings and subheadings

The format for headings and subheadings should be determined by your style guide; please review it carefully.

Headings and subheadings should appear in the same font and size as the rest of the text, even if a style guide makes such alterations.

Paragraphs and indentation

All paragraphs of your text should be indented as indicated by your style guide or journal. Indent consistently throughout your document. Indentation of block quotations and reference entries should conform to your style guide or journal article.

Other text considerations

Right justification.

Justifying both margins is not recommended because it can cause a number of problems, especially in the references. Many programs that justify your text at both margins add spaces between words to stretch out a line, leaving awkward gaps in the text.

Widows and Orphans

“Widow” lines occur when the last line of a paragraph appears alone at the top of a page. “Orphan” lines occur when the first line of a paragraph, or heading or subheading, appears alone at the bottom of a page. To fix a “widow” or an “orphan,” move a line from the previous page to accompany it or move the line onto the next page. You may allow more than 1 inch at the bottom of a page in order to avoid “widow” and “orphan” lines. Use good judgment in correcting such problems, but avoid placing text within the 1-inch bottom margin.

Most word-processing programs, including Microsoft® Word, have a feature to prevent or fix this error.

In-text Citations

You must identify all sources for other’s concepts, ideas, quotations, or paraphrased text that you have used in your document. Ensure that the author name, publication date, or page number (depending on your style and the type of source) are correct.

Follow your style guide for the treatment of in-text citations in terms of appearance, content, punctuation, and placement.

Wherever you elect to place your notes, they must be formatted consistently throughout the document. All notes should be indicated in the text with corresponding superscript numbers (here1 rather than here1), so that they are distinct from the text. Follow your style guide or journal for the numbering and format of notes. You should single-space each note, and use double-spacing between them. To format a document with endnote or chapter note organization, begin the notes section on a new page. If you use notes, please choose word-processing software that allows for superscripts.

Photographs and Graphics

Each photograph or graphic, like all figures, must be given a number and a caption and must meet margin requirements, reducing the image if necessary. A “LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHS” or “LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS” should also be included in the preliminary pages to assist readers in finding the images.

Should you wish to include photographs or illustrations, you have two options: (1) scanning them; or, (2) reproducing them xerographically (provided that the resolution is clear enough). Whichever method you choose, the resulting image(s) should be sharp with good contrast quality.

Title: double-spaced, Title Case, center aligned

“by”: double-spaced; all lowercase letters, center aligned

Name: matches your official transcript

Clause “A Thesis Presented in Partial Fulfillment”: 5 single line spaces after name

Description: single-spaced; insert name of degree only

Clause “Approved [Month] [Year] by the”: ten single line spaces after the degree

Date: month and year of your oral defense; no comma

Block 3: “Graduate Supervisory Committee” in title case followed by a colon (:); insert names of committee members; comma and space before Chair and Co-Chair

University: ALL CAPITAL LETTERS

Date: month (either May, August or December)

Note to Students in the School of International Letters and Cultures. Documents produced to fulfill the requirements of a Master of Arts degree, or a Doctor of Philosophy degree may be written in the language of the discipline. The foreign title should appear on the title page. The following page, labeled page i, should consist of the English translation of the abstract. Pagination continues on the next page with the abstract and rest of the document written in a foreign language.

Type ABSTRACT in all capital letters; not bolded, center aligned

One double-spaced between “ABSTRACT” and text

Double space all text following; no bold; no italics or underline (used only for species, genre, book titles, musical compositions or foreign words and phrases)

All acronyms or abbreviations must be written out fully at first use with acronym/abbreviation in parenthesis

Same size and font as text

Must start on page i

Do not exceed 350 words in length

No first person plurals* – ‘we’, ‘our’, ‘us’

Note to Students in the School of International Letters and Cultures. If you compose your document in the language of your discipline (e.g. Spanish, German or French) then you must include an extra abstract in English. See page 7 for more information.

Dedication and acknowledgments (optional)

Generally, the dedication contains a more personal note to family, loved ones and those who have helped students on their journey that may no longer be with us. While the acknowledgments usually consist of professional and academic assistance, the dedication and the acknowledgments should be on separate pages. 

Please follow these guidelines:

Statements should be double-spaced.

The dedication and acknowledgments cannot exceed three pages combined.

Headings: The dedication does not require a heading, but “ACKNOWLEDGMENTS” should be in all capitals and centered between the margins on the acknowledgments page.

Text: The text of the dedication may be centered vertically on the page. The text of the acknowledgments should follow the indentation of paragraphs recommended by your style guide.

The end of your acknowledgments is an excellent place to note sponsorship or funding for your research, i.e., military, corporate, etc. 

• To my family, for their patience, encouragement, and understanding.
• Thank you to my family for always being by my side. Without you and your encouragement, it would be impossible for me to achieve my dream. 
• I would like to dedicate this achievement to my family for their unwavering support and love throughout my doctoral education. No effort on my part will be enough to thank you for the sacrifice you have made on my behalf. 

Acknowledgements

• As a student of ASU, I acknowledge that the Tempe campus sits on the ancestral homelands of those American Indian tribes that have inhabited this place for centuries, including the Akimel O’odham (Pima) and Pee Posh (Maricopa) peoples.
• In keeping with the design aspirations of the New American University, ASU seeks to embrace our place, connect with tribal communities, and enable the success of each American Indian student. We reaffirm the university’s commitment to these goals and acknowledge that everyone, the entire ASU community, is responsible for their achievement.” President Crow, August 31, 2015 
• I want to extend my gratitude to my committee for their guidance in my research and for taking the time to serve as committee members.  
• I would like to express my gratitude to my advisor for the opportunity to work on my research project and for their guidance and support throughout my doctoral journey. I would also like to sincerely thank my committee members for helping me develop my research and for providing valuable guidance and encouragement throughout my studies. 

Table of contents (chapter format)

Type TABLE OF CONTENTS in all capital letters; center aligned

List preliminary pages that follow table of contents in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS

Create headings “CHAPTER” and “Page” as shown below; include on subsequent pages

Indent subheadings; use title case for all subheadings

Double space

Add leader dots between headings/subheadings and page numbers

Do not use bold or italic typeface in the Table of Contents

Use all CAPITAL LETTERS for chapter titles or sections headings

Right align page numbers

No bold, italics, underline (used only for species, genre, book titles, musical compositions, or foreign words and phrases)

Note to Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing Students: A creative writing practicum will not require a table of contents if there are no formal divisions within the document.

Table of Contents (continued)

Continue on subsequent pages if necessary

Ensure headers appear on subsequent pages

Include APPENDIX header in all capital letters before listing appendices

List appendices in all CAPITAL LETTERS

Table of contents (alternative)

Create heading “Page” as shown below

List of tables, list of figures and other lists

Follow same format as table of contents

Create headers reading “Table”/”Figure” and “Page”

Title case captions/subheadings

Other lists (terms, nomenclature, etc.) should be formatted similarly

Tables and figures

Refer to your style guide for the formatting of tables (including borders), table titles, and figure captions, including placement, typeface, alignment, and wording. You may need to reduce the size of a table or figure, either xerographically or by using smaller size type within the table or figure, to meet the margin requirements. As a general guide, you may refer to the figure below, a sample table in Chicago style. Tables extending over multiple pages should be placed in an appendix.

For continued figures or tables, follow your style guide for treatment of captions/titles.

Sample Table in Chicago Style

Note: You should follow the format of your selected style guide.

Style guides and journals vary widely in the treatment of references. Your comprehensive list of references also may be called “Works Cited” or “Bibliography,” but certain requirements apply to the list regardless of its name. Your style guide determines the format for all entries and their overall organization; therefore, you must be familiar with the style of citations and references used by your journal or style guide, ensuring that it addresses all of your source types. Please be aware that some style guides provide more than one option for reference style, depending on the discipline (e.g., humanities or sciences), so you will want to choose the option that is best suited to your discipline.

The reference list should be single spaced with one additional line space separating each reference from another.

It is fine to have references listed after each chapter but a comprehensive references page must also be included at the end of the document (before appendices).

Nation, K., & Snowling, M. (2004). Beyond phonological skills: Broader language skills

contribute to the development of reading. Journal of Research in Reading, 27, 342–356.

Riedel, B. (2007). The relation between DIBELS, reading comprehension, and

vocabulary in urban first-grade students. Reading Research Quarterly, 42(4), 556-567.

Swanson, H., Rosston, K., Gerber, M. & Solari, E. (2008). Influence of oral language and

phonological processing on children’s bilingual reading. Journal of School Psychology,

46, 413–429. doi:10.1016/ j.jsp.2007.07.002.

Wiley, T., & Wright, W. (2004). Against the undertow: The politics of language

instruction in the United States. Educational Policy, 18(1), 142–168.

When you submit your document for format review, the advisor will check your citations for consistency, but you must complete a more thorough check to guarantee the order of references and the completeness of entries in relation to your style guide, and to ensure that the information you provide to your readers is accurate and that you are not plagiarizing per Graduate College's policies and procedures . You will also want to verify that your reference list entries match any coinciding in-text citations. You are ultimately responsible for the completeness and accuracy of your references.

Designate each appendix with a letter (“APPENDIX A”) or Roman numeral (“APPENDIX I”)

Include a descriptive title in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS

Provide a separate cover page for each appendix (see figure below)

List appendix titles in the table of contents (see table of contents page)

If your research includes human subjects or animal subjects, you must include the appropriate approval documents in an appendix

Any copyright permission should also be included

If you are including non-print media as one or more appendices, include a cover page for each element with the text “[Consult Attached Files]” below the appendix title. If a specific software or operating system is required to view the non-print media, the following line should make a note of it.

Biographical sketch (optional)

Included if common in your discipline, recommended by your committee, or important to you

One single-spaced paragraph; indent per style guide

Double space between heading and text

Present in a professional tone (see figure below); past tense is most commonly used

As a graduate student, copyrighting impacts you in two ways. First, as the writer, you have legal rights concerning the contents of your thesis/dissertation. Second, as a researcher, you must make every effort not to violate the copyrights of others. Please visit https://lib.asu.edu/policies/copyright for more information.

Copyrighting Your Own Work

All works under copyright protection and published in the United States on or after March 1, 1989, are subject to mandatory deposit. Usually, the holder of the copyright is required to submit two copies of the copyrighted work to the Copyright Office. Section 704 of the Copyright Act states that these deposits “are available to the Library of Congress for its collection, or for exchange or transfer to any other library.” Circular 1 Copyright Basics and Circular 7d Mandatory Deposit of Copies ( loc.gov/copyright/circs ) provide useful information about the copyright process.

If you have questions, you may contact the Copyright Office Public Information Office on the Internet at copyright.gov or by phone at 202-707-3000. The form used to register a copyright for most documents is Form TX. Certain documents in the performing arts, such as musical scores or plays, may require Form PA. Contact the Copyright Office if you are not sure which form to use. Application forms are available online at copyright.gov/forms .

You can apply for a copyright through UMI/ProQuest when you submit your document through ETD. If you plan on copyrighting your document, follow these additional formatting instructions:

Place the copyright symbol (©) on the lower half of a second page after the title page with the year and your name centered between the margins. The copyright symbol meets the requirements of the Universal Copyright Convention to which the United States and most European and Asian nations belong. You should also include the statement “All Rights Reserved” below the copyright line. This statement will afford additional protection under the Buenos Aires Convention, to which the United States and most Latin American nations belong.

©2011 Your Full Name

All Rights Reserved

The copyright page will become your second page, between the title page and the abstract. Please note that the copyright page does not change pagination; your abstract will still be page ‘i’.

If you include a copyright page then you must pay the copyright fee.

Using the Copyrighted Work of Others

Copyrighted material includes tables, charts, graphs, maps, questionnaires, illustrations, photographs, literary works, etc. It is against the law to reproduce copyrighted materials, in full or in part, without permission of the copyright owner. If you need to include copyrighted source material in your document, you must obtain written permission from the copyright owner prior to its use. The written permission you secure from the author or publisher to use copyrighted work in your document should be included in an appendix.

Fair Use rights have the same legal standing in the law as the copyright owner's rights. Fair Use allows for the limited use of copyrighted content (such as tables, maps, or works of art) to create new works that benefit society. Before you complete your document, consult: https://www.copyright.gov/fair-use/

Including Non-print Media with Theses/Dissertations

Non-print media, such as audio or video files may be used to store information that accompanies your thesis/dissertation. The information stored on such files, particularly any included software, must not violate any copyrights.

Research involving human and animal subjects

Human subjects.

Research involving human subjects conducted under the auspices of Arizona State University is reviewed by the University Human Subjects Institutional Review Board (IRB) in compliance with federal regulations. Research involving human subjects concerns the collection of data on subjects whose performance of any activity is required for the purpose of compiling data. This includes data obtained by observation, interview, questionnaire, experiment, or a secondary source. Documents containing any data collection from human subjects require that applications be submitted to the University Human Subjects IRB for approval before data collection or recruitment of subjects is initiated. For further information, contact the human research coordinator in the Office of Human Research Administration at 480-965-6788 or visit researchintegrity.asu.edu/humans.

Animal Subjects

Research involving the use of animals conducted under the auspices of Arizona State University is reviewed by the University Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee (IACUC) in compliance with federal regulations. Documents containing any data collection from animal research require that applications be submitted to the University Animal Care& Use Committee for approval. For further information, contact the IACUC secretary in the IACUC Office at 480-965-4387 or visit researchintegrity.asu.edu/animals.

Degrees with exceptions and special format requirements/procedures

Thesis/dissertation equivalents.

Some graduate degree programs require students to produce written projects that are not called “theses” or “dissertations.” If you are pursuing a degree in one of these programs, be sure to substitute the proper wording on the title page of your document as indicated in the following table:

Exceptions to “Thesis” and “Dissertation” on the Title Page Degree Name of Document

Documents Containing Separate Studies or Papers where the Student is the Author or Co-Author

Do not use the first person plural (i.e. “we,” “our,” or “us”) since theses and dissertations may not be co-authored. For more information regarding copyrights and permissions visit Copyright Library Guide . For more information regarding the use of previously published/publishable collaborative work, refer to the Policy on using Previously Published or Publishable Work in a Culminating Experience Document .

Presentation

Supplemental non-print materials should be listed as appendices in your table of contents. The appendix cover sheet must also be marked with a description of the software and operating system (e.g., MAC or Windows XP) required to view the non-print file.

You may upload supplementary files that accompany your document. Examples might be sound clips or spreadsheets of research data. You can upload as many supplementary files as you need. If you upload a set of files that are “zipped”, then that is how the supplemental material will be distributed with the full text: as a zipped file.

Please note that if your document and supplemental material combined exceeds 1000 MB then you need to create a PDF with just the Title Page, Abstract and on the third page a note explaining that the rest of the dissertation and all supplemental materials will be included on a CD-ROM or a DVD, and submit the PDF online. You will still submit your payment online. Then you will submit all materials on a CD-ROM or DVD to the Graduate College for approval.

Horizontal (Landscape) Table

Double space above page number

Notice page number placement. For print copies of documents ordered through ProQuest, pages submitted in landscape orientation will be rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise. Correct page number placement ensures that pagination will be consistent in printed documents.

Pre-Health Career Pathways

Pre-medical (m.d.) pathway.

Select Section

Pre-health advising

You are encouraged to meet with a pre-health advisor at least once a semester to discuss options for careers in medicine, opportunities to gain relevant experience, discussing the best time to apply, preparation for the MCAT, the AMCAS application, and much more. For more information, schedule an appointment with your advisor .

Quick links

• M.D. profession description
• Explore Arizona and national health professional school prerequisites, admission requirements, and class profiles
• Medical School Admissions Requirements (MSAR)
• Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
• Arizona Medical Schools PreReq Chart

Four-year plan

• Maintain a strong GPA and focus on coursework. To be competitive, students typically maintain at least a 3.7 science and overall GPA.
• Make an appointment with a pre-health advisor to introduce yourself and attend the ASU Pre-Health Fair.
• Begin to get involved with clubs and student organizations.
• Begin volunteering and gaining clinical experience.

Involvement

• AMSA (American Medical Student Association) ASU-DPC Facebook Group
• AMSA ASU Tempe Facebook Group
• AMSA ASU West Facebook Group
• ASU Alpha Epsilon Delta Facebook Group
• Browse more health-related clubs and organizations
• Student Health Outreach for Wellness (SHOW)  
• Hospice of the Valley
• Maricopa Integrated Health System
• St. Joseph’s Hospital
• Phoenix Children’s Hospital
• St. Vincent de Paul
• While maintaining a high GPA, look into opportunities for research, internships and clinical experience.
• Gain clinical experience from a practicing MD.
• Build relationships with professors and physicians as they may become letter writers (5 letters recommended).
• Attend pre-health meetings, events, and the ASU Pre-Health Fair.
• Begin exploring MCAT preparation (studying and registration).
• Meet with your pre-health advisor. 

Clinical experience

• Internships
• ASU Pre-Health Internship
• Local:  Maricopa Integrated Health System Surgical Undergraduate Research Fluency Plus (SURF+)
• Local:  Mayo Clinic Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship
• Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP)
• Database of National Pre-Health Internships
• CEP America
• HealthScribe
• PhysAssist Scribes
• Scottsdale Emergency Associates
• Scribe America
• Research  (Basic Sciences, Clinical, Academic)

Study abroad

• Global Education Office (Study abroad)
• College of Health Solutions Study abroad

Leadership and community Service

• Community Engagement and Volunteerism
• Student Organizations
• Campus Involvement
• On-Campus Employment

Special programs

• Mayo Clinic-Barrett Honors College Premedical Scholars Program
• Mayo Clinic School of Medicine - Med School 101
• Mayo Clinic and Arizona State University Alliance for Health Care
• 3rd Year Medical Student Mentoring Program through Creighton University School of Medicine 
• Mayo Clinic School of Medicine Summer Medical Brigades
• Anatomy Advanced Cadaver Dissection

Explore schools

• University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson
• University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix
• University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix Class Profiles
• Mayo Clinic School of Medicine
• Creighton University School of Medicine

Grade point average

• AMCAS Repeat Policy: Grade Repeat Policy for AMCAS: AMCAS counts all attempts of a repeated course, even if your school does not. (Taken directly from  AMCAS Instruction Manual )
• Science GPA  (BCPM-Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics)
• GPA Calculator
• Grade Repeat Policy at ASU
• Maintain a high GPA and stay involved with campus clubs/organizations, volunteer opportunities, and clinical experience.
• Calculate your science and overall GPA to determine your competitiveness.
• Begin an internship and start prepping for the MCAT (take the MCAT by spring of Junior year).
• Apply through AMCAS one year prior to when you plan to matriculate.
• The AMCAS application usually opens around May and you may submit in June.
• Medical schools will then send supplementary applications.
• You submit after your AMCAS. It is important that you are aware of deadlines and complete the supplemental in a timely matter.

Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT)

• Prepare for the MCAT Exam

Prep courses and practice exams

• ASU and Princeton Review MCAT Prep
• Khan Academy
• Exam Krackers
• Coursesaver

Register for test date

• Taking the MCAT Exam

Score release dates (for planning backwards)

• MCAT Testing Calendar and Score Release Dates Begin to familiarize yourself with the MCAT (look at MCAT essentials) and take multiple practice tests in real time setting. It is a marathon (~8 hours), so you will need to train for it like a marathon. Take one practice test to get your base score and see which sections need improvement. Once you know, then hyper focus on those and continue taking practice tests to make sure you are improving overall (MCAT practice tests from AAMC are helpful)

American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS)

• Instruction Manual

Important dates and deadlines

• Pre-Med Calendar

Fee assistance program

• Fee Assistance

AMCAS video overview

Review of AMCAS application offered by the Pre-Health Office.

• AMCAS Overview Videos by AAMC Part I
• AMCAS Overview Videos by AAMC Part II
• AMCAS Overview Videos by AAMC Part III
• Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS)

Students applying to medical schools in Texas will need to complete the TMDSAS

Personal statement

Review of your personal statement offered by Pre-Health Office.

• AMCAS Guidelines 5,300 characters long: If you are applying to an MD/PhD program, you must complete two additional essays.  Draft by April of junior year (the year prior to matriculation into medical school). 

Letters of recommendation (LOR)

Identify people who know you well and can firmly comment on your ability as a medical student and future physician. Ask in advance and give your letter writers sufficient time to complete and submit. Also, remember to stay in touch with letter writers who you may also ask in the future!

Types of letters (five recommended)

Some schools have specific requirements so consult the MSAR

• 1 STEM faculty 
• 3 Other (STEM faculty, non-STEM faculty, employer, advisor, supervisor, community mentor)

After you submit your AMCAS

After medical schools have received your primary AMCAS application, they may invite you to complete a secondary or supplemental application. Supplemental applications are sent between July and October and usually have fees associated with them. It is important that you complete and submit supplemental applications as soon as possible.

Mock interviews

Mock Interviews are offered by Pre-Health Office

• MMI Prep through Columbia University
• Student Doctor Network Interview Feedback
• UA College of Medicine-Phoenix MMI
• Princeton Review 50 Common Interview Questions 
• Interview Day
• If wait listed or denied, explore post-bac options or consider taking a gap year.

MD and PhD programs

• AAMC MD/PhD Programs
• NIH Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP)

Post-bac programs

• AAMC Post-bac Programs
• 9-Month Immersion Master's Program
• 100% Online Master's Programs

Pipeline programs in Arizona

• Pathway Scholars Program University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix
• Pre-Medical Admissions Pathway University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson

Residency roadmap

• National Residency Match Program
• Length of Residencies

International students

• Permanent Residency for Physicians
• MSAR provides stats for International Applicants
• International Student Acceptances
• Pre-Med Journey (the bottom three links for Applying to Residency may be of help)
• Green Card Through Physician National Interest Waiver

Personal statement

Graduate students.

Select Section

What is a graduate school personal statement?

After researching graduate programs and finding one that interests you, it will be time to start working on your application — and that could include writing a personal statement.

The majority of Arizona State University’s graduate programs will ask you to submit a personal statement. This is your opportunity to introduce yourself, share your goals and explain why you decided to pursue graduate education.

Do your homework

Check your graduate program’s website for key focus areas, and speak with the graduate program representative or a faculty member in the department. That way, you can connect relevant information about your background to the mission and goals of the program you want to join. Asking the department to connect you to a current student is a way you can learn about the program from a peer.

Know yourself and your qualifications

What are you hoping to achieve with your graduate degree, and how are you prepared? When you are writing your personal statement, remember what makes you unique and what you can bring to the program — your education, work experience, internships and service are all valuable topics to consider.

Follow the instructions

If you are instructed to answer a question in 100 words, stick to 100 words. Use your space wisely, avoid repetition and stay on topic. This will help you develop a focused personal statement.

Ask for help

Proofread your statement and check for any errors before you submit it. Also, find someone who will review your statement as well such as a friend, roommate or colleague. Another set of eyes will provide a new perspective and may help you discover something you missed.

Don't write this in one sitting

Take your time and don’t rush it. Writing is a process, and your personal statement will evolve with each new draft. Allow yourself plenty of time to ensure this is the best representation of your work.

Frequently asked questions about graduate personal statements

Is there a page limit for my personal statement?

The page limit for personal statements varies by program. Review your program’s instructions for writing and submitting your personal statement and follow them closely.

What common mistakes are made when writing a personal statement?

Typos, incorrect punctuation and grammar errors are common mistakes seen on personal statements. You’ll be more likely to avoid these errors if you have one or more people review your personal statement before submitting it. Another common mistake is personal statements that don’t follow statement guidelines (e.g., word or page count). Also, remember to give specific examples of what makes you a good match for the program.

What is the committee looking for in a personal statement?

Committees are generally looking for why you want to study in a particular program as well as what your previous experiences can bring to that program. They want to be sure that the program is a good fit for you, and you for it, and that you are capable of succeeding in it.

View more FAQs

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

73 Best Colleges Without Supplemental Essays – 2024

May 27, 2024

When college application season arrives, it’s easy for students to become overwhelmed about the essays. There’s the personal statement , which many students have a general idea about, and then there are the supplemental essays. Supplemental essays can cover a range of college-specific prompts that help the colleges better understand why you’d be a great fit . Due to how personal and varied the supplemental essays can be, students often end up spending weeks, if not months, writing them.

However, across the country, there are colleges that do not require supplemental essays at all. For some students, applying to colleges without supplemental essays can make the overall application process much smoother. Benefits include experiencing less stress in their application preparation and diversifying prospective colleges while focusing more on their priority schools. Sometimes, though, these schools do ask for program-specific essays or optional essays, depending on the applicant.

Best Colleges without Supplemental Essays

1) albion college.

At Albion College, the application essay is not required, but it is recommended. Students are encouraged to provide any more details that they believe the admissions team should consider.

2) Allegheny College

As noted on their website, Allegheny College has not required the supplemental essay since their 2013-2014 application cycle. Students will find more essay questions in the Member Questions section of the Common Application.

3) Augusta University

Augusta University joins the list of colleges without supplemental essays as they do not require a personal essay at all. They do still require SAT or ACT scores and GPA.

4) Bates College

Since 1984, Bates College has not required SAT Subject Tests or ACT scores in their applications. There is an optional arts supplement for students who are applying to study art, creative writing, dance, film, music, and theater.

5) Case Western Reserve University

At Case Western Reserve University, the Common Application personal essay is required. However, if you’re applying to the Pre-Professional Scholars Program, then you’ll have to write supplemental essays.

Best Colleges Without Supplemental Essays (Continued)

6) clemson university.

Clemson University does not require students to complete a personal essay with the Common or Coalition Application. There is also a test-optional policy that may appeal to some students.

7) Coe College

At Coe College, the personal essay is optional for students who meet the college’s minimum academic standards. Coe College joins the list of colleges without supplemental essays that also have a test-optional policy.

8) Colby College

Colby College accepts the Common Application, Coalition Application, and QuestBridge Application, and they do not have any additional writing supplements. Test scores are optional for applicants at Colby College, and there is no application fee.

9) Colgate University

Colgate University is one of the colleges without supplemental essays required, but there is the option to write them. As stated on their website, “These prompts are not meant to feel like essays; they are simply an added perspective.

10) College of the Holy Cross

College of the Holy Cross does not require supplemental essays, but the following are optional: personal interview, SAT or ACT scores, and supplementary materials.

11) Denison University

Denison University joins this list of colleges without supplemental essays. Their website states that they wish to provide “equal access” to a Denison education, and they are also test-optional.

12) DePaul University

For first-year student applicants at DePaul University, personal essays are not required but optional. They have also been a test-optional university since 2012.

13) Dillard University

Dillard University is the oldest HBCU in Louisiana and is one of the colleges with no supplemental essay requirements. However, if students do not meet the minimum GPA and standardized test score requirements, then they must submit two letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

14) Drew University

At Drew University, a personal statement is required, along with a counselor evaluation, teacher evaluation, and high school transcript.

15) Drexel University

Drexel University joins the list of colleges without supplemental essays. They do require all students to complete the 250 to 650 essay on the Common or Coalition Application. However, the short answer question is optional.

16) Fairleigh Dickinson University

At Fairleigh Dickinson University, all essays, résumés, and recommendations are optional.

17) Florida Gulf Coast University

The only essay required by Florida Gulf Coast University is a two-page personal essay that discusses academic performance, special talents, and what the student can contribute to the campus.

18) Florida State University

Although Florida State University is one of the colleges without supplemental essays, students should invest time into the Common Application personal statement.

19) Fordham University

At Fordham University, the Common Application essay is required, but there are also optional writing sections. If students choose not to write in these sections, they will not be penalized.

20) Franklin and Marshall College

Franklin and Marshall College joins this list of colleges without supplemental essays. They do require the personal essay in the Common Application, as well as standardized test scores, recommendations and other materials.

21) Furman University

At Furman University, first-year applicants do not need to submit a personal essay, and they are also test-optional.

22) Gannon University

Gannon University does not require students to submit a personal statement. It is optional but recommended for students to submit a statement. However, it is required for LECOM 4+4 Medical Program applicants.

23) Gettysburg College

Although Gettysburg College joins the list of colleges without supplemental essays, it does require a personal statement on the Common Application.

24) Grinnell College

Grinnell College does not require supplemental essays and it also does not have an application fee. Standardized test scores are also optional.

25) Hamilton College

Although Hamilton College joins this list of colleges without supplemental essays, the optional essays are still encouraged.

26) Hampshire College

Hampshire College only requires supplemental essays from international students applying as first-year or transfer students.

27) Hanover College

Hanover College states on their website that the essay or personal statement is optional, alongside test scores, letters of recommendation and résumé.

28) Hollins University

At Hollins University, for first-year students no personal statement is required and standardized test scores are optional.

29) Howard University

Howard University requires students to complete the Common Application essay and there is one optional supplemental essay.

30) Indiana University – Bloomington

Students applying to Indiana University – Bloomington must write the one essay in the Common Application or through Apply IU.

31) Kent State University

At Kent State University, first-year students are not required to submit a personal essay or a letter of recommendation. Test scores are also optional.

32) Kenyon College

Kenyon College joins this list as it is one of the colleges without supplemental essays. For first-year and transfer students, test scores are optional and flexible.

33) Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University does require the Common Application personal statement, but as of its most recent admissions cycle, no supplemental essay is required.

34) Mercer University

At Mercer University, applicants who wish to be test-optional must complete the supplemental essays. They must also have a 3.5 GPA and letter of recommendation.

35) Miami University

Miami University, not to be confused with the University of Miami, requires the Common App personal statement but not the supplemental essays.

36) Michigan State University

Michigan State University requires students to write only one essay on the MSU application, Common Application or Coalition Application.

37) Middlebury College

Middlebury College is one of the best colleges without supplemental essays. They do still require the personal statement on the Common Application.

38) Muhlenberg College

Muhlenberg College requires students to submit the personal essay but no other supplemental essays.

39) New College of Florida

New College of Florida is one of the many colleges with no supplemental essays. However, they do still require a personal statement.

40) New Jersey Institute of Technology

New Jersey Institute of Technology only requires a personal statement included in the Common Application. There is no supplemental essay requirement.

41) New York Institute of Technology

Students applying to the New York Institute of Technology are required to write a 300 to 350 word essay as their only essay. They may require test-optional applicants to submit a graded essay.

42) Northeastern University

Northeastern is one of the best colleges without a supplemental essay requirement. They do require a personal statement, alongside other materials.

43) Nova Southeastern University

At Nova Southeastern University, the essay is entirely optional, and students can self-report their test scores.

44) Oberlin College

Oberlin requires a personal statement, but does not require any supplemental essays.

45) Ohio State University

Ohio State University only requires a personal statement. However, they also offer a COVID-19 impact statement on the Common Application for interested students.

46) Ripon College

At Ripon College, the personal statement itself is optional for applicants, along with other materials.

47) Rhodes College

Rhodes College does not require a supplemental essay, but they have the option for students to record an optional “ Elevator Pitch .”

48) Rowan University

Rowan University requires a personal statement in the Common Application, but joins this list as a college without supplemental essays.

49) St. Lawrence University

St. Lawrence University has no supplemental essay requirement, but it still requires the personal statement essay. They are also test-optional, depending on the applicant.

50) St. Mary’s University (San Antonio)

For students applying to St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, the personal statement is only required if they choose not to submit test scores.

51) Seton Hall University

At Seton Hall University, the personal statement is required, but there are no other supplemental essays.

52) Siena College

Siena College has made the personal statement (open topic) optional for students applying.

53) Skidmore College

While Skidmore College does not require supplemental essays, students do often send in supplemental materials to further support their application.

54) Stony Brook University

At Stony Brook University, only a personal statement is required. However, students applying to the Honors, WISE, University Scholars, Scholars for Medicine, and Scholars for Dental Medicine must write supplemental essays.

55) Sewanee: The University of the South

Sewanee does not require supplemental essays and SAT/ACT scores are also optional.

56) Susquehanna University

Susquehanna University only requires supplemental essay materials for students applying to the creative writing, graphic design, studio art, and music programs.

57) Temple University

Temple University offers an optional essay as part of the Common Application for students to tell more about themselves beyond grades or test scores.

58) Union College

Union College does offer an optional supplemental essay question as part of their application.

59) University of Alabama

At the University of Alabama, essay submissions and letters of recommendation are not required but they are optional.

60) University of Albany

University of Albany joins the list as one of the colleges without supplemental essays. However, it does require a personal essay of at least 250 words on the Common Application of SUNY Application.

61) University of Arkansas

At the University of Arkansas, first-year students are not required to submit a personal essay. They accept self-reported test scores and letters of recommendation are also not required.

62) University of Arizona

Although the University of Arizona does not require an application essay, they strongly encourage students to submit the 500-word personal statement.

63) University of Cincinnati

Students applying to the University of Cincinnati are required to write the Cincinnati personal statement and the Common Application personal statement. However, there are no other required essays.

64) University of Colorado-Denver

University of Colorado-Denver requires the personal statement on the Common Application, but not other supplemental essays.

65) University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut joins this list as one of the best colleges without supplemental essays. The university does require a personal essay on the Common Application or the Coalition Application.

66) University of Dayton

The University of Dayton does not require any supplemental essays, although it does require a personal statement. The university is also test-optional.

67) University of Denver

The University of Denver only requires the personal statement on the Common Application.

68) University of Houston

Students who apply to the University of Houston without a test score must submit a short admissions essay and extracurricular activities.

69) University of Iowa

The University of Iowa does require a personal statement as part of their application, but there is no supplemental essay requirement.

70) University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a college without supplemental essay requirements for first-year students. However, students applying to the Honors Program or the Engineering SELF Program must submit their responses.

71) University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky requires students to write one personal statement from seven of their given writing prompts.

72) University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

For first-year students applying to the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, the personal essay is not required, although it is encouraged.

73) University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln does not require a personal statement for first-year students. However, those applying to the Honors Program must write a 300-600 word essay.

Whether for the personal statement or any supplemental essay, writing college application essays can prove to be a challenging task. But if students plan ahead about how they want to approach the essays, it helps tremendously. Those who are about to apply to a college without supplemental essays can focus any extra time on other schools that do require them. It’s also great for students who wish to be considered primarily for their grades, test scores, personal statement and other reasons.

Best Colleges Without Supplemental Essays – Additional Resources 

• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples 
• How to Write a Body Paragraph for a College Essay
• UC Essay Examples
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Joanna Hong

With a BA from Pitzer College and an MA from University College London, Joanna has worked in London, Berlin, and Los Angeles covering many cultural and political issues with organizations such as Byline Media, NK News, and Free Turkey Media. A freelancer for The New York Times, her work has also appeared in Newsweek, Dazed and Confused Magazine, and The Guardian, among others. In addition, Joanna was the recipient of the 2021 PEN America Emerging Voices Fellowship in Fiction and is currently completing her first novel.

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6 Most Commonly Asked Application Questions

You’ve Got Questions, and Our Admissions Team Has the Answers

Whether you’re ready to apply to the University of Arizona or feeling completely overwhelmed about getting started, we’re here to make the process easy by answering some of the questions we hear most.

1. What’s the easiest way to apply to the University of Arizona?

Applying online is fast, easy, and convenient. Just head to our online application portal and create your Future Wildcat account to get started.

Although it only takes about 30 minutes to complete your application, one of the best things about applying online is that you can save your progress along the way. That way, you can take a break and log back in to pick up where you left off at any time.

Prefer not to apply online? Give us a call at 520-621-3237 or email [email protected] to let us know you’d like a paper application.

2. What do I need to complete my application?

Before you begin, it’s a good idea to review our requirements for admissions .

SAT and/or ACT scores are not required for admission to the University of Arizona. If you do choose to submit them, they may be used to supplement your application or to help clear course deficiencies.

You will be asked to pay the application fee, which is $50 for Arizona residents and $80 for non-residents. However, don’t worry if the application fee is a financial burden to you or your family. You may qualify for a fee waiver and can request one when completing your application.

It’s also helpful to have a copy of your high school transcripts before you start your application (and any college transcripts if you’re applying as a transfer student). Speaking of transcripts… 

3. Do I need to send my official transcripts with my application?

If you are applying as a first-year student, you do not need to send your official high school transcripts when you apply to the University of Arizona. We won’t need them until after you’ve been admitted and finished your senior year of high school.

Instead, you will self-report your courses and grades – including any coursework still in progress. This is why having a copy of your high school transcripts can be helpful!

If you are applying to the university as a transfer student, learn more about sending us your transcripts .

4. Is there an application essay?

The University of Arizona does not require an application essay. However, we strongly recommend that you consider completing the optional 500-word personal statement. 

Your personal statement is a chance to tell us about yourself – your proudest accomplishments, career ambitions, and everything else that doesn’t show up on your application. This can help us with our Comprehensive Review Process , which is our holistic approach to admissions that considers factors beyond just your grades.

5. Will I qualify for financial aid and scholarships?

Nine out of 10 Wildcats do, so chances are: yes!

To qualify, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by early spring each year. Your FAFSA will be used to determine how much aid you are eligible to receive.

For many students, scholarships are an essential part of their financial aid package. You’re automatically considered for merit tuition awards when you submit your enrollment application.

Learn more about other types of financial aid and scholarships, including how and when to apply.

6. Okay, I’ve applied! When will I find out if I’m in?

You can typically expect an admissions decision from us within two to three weeks. You can also monitor your application as it moves through our review process by logging back into your Future WIldcat account.

Once you’re admitted (congrats!), you’ll get information about our Next Steps Center , your one-stop shop for enrolling at the university, signing up for orientation, learning about on-campus housing, and more.

Learn more about what to expect after you’ve applied.

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The best of both worlds

Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University is a residential college community of academically outstanding undergraduates at an expansive and innovative university.

Your future at Barrett

You are about to embark on the next phase of your academic journey. At Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University, you will have the opportunity to examine your interests, follow your passions and grow personally and intellectually.

Across ASU’s four metropolitan Phoenix campuses, you will find faculty, staff and academic advisors committed to guiding you on your path to self-discovery and success. Barrett, The Honors College feels and functions like a small college within a large Research I university with vast resources. You will enjoy distinctive honors-only internships, research, travel opportunities and a unique honors curriculum that integrate seamlessly into your ASU degree requirements.

Immersed in a fully-developed residential community built especially for honors students at ASU, you will be surrounded by dedicated faculty and staff. Your peers will be other academically-bright, motivated and well-rounded students who are eager to make their mark on the world.

Upon graduation, you will be prepared for competitive graduate programs, impressive employers and prestigious national scholarships. Let Barrett, The Honors College take you on this remarkable journey.

Barrett admission information for

Visit Barrett

Before starting the Barrett Honors College admissions process, prospective students are encouraged to explore the honors college website to familiarize themselves with our residential experience, curriculum, graduation requirements and more.

ASU and Barrett offer a variety of information sessions, tours and other visit experiences - both virtual and in-person - to help students discover whether the honors college experience is a good fit for their goals and interests.

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