university of georgia admissions essay

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The University of Georgia is an excellent public school ranked in the top 50 universities nationwide . If you're applying here, you'll need to submit two amazing essays. So what are the UGA essay prompts? And how can you ensure your UGA essays will make you stand out?

In this in-depth guide, we give you all the current UGA essay prompts and tips for choosing and approaching the best prompt for you. We also look at an actual UGA application essay example to give you an idea of what your own essay can and should look like.

Feature Image: Boston Public Library /Flickr

What Are the UGA Essay Prompts?

The UGA application, which you can submit via the Common Application or the Coalition Application , requires all first-year applicants to submit two essays.

The first essay is the personal essay that's part of the Common App or Coalition App. You can find a list of the Common App prompts and how to answer them here (and you can find the same information for the Coalition App here) .

The second essay you'll submit is unique to the University of Georgia application. The first UGA essay must answer the following prompt:

The college admissions process can create anxiety. In an attempt to make it less stressful, please tell us an interesting or amusing story about yourself from your high school years that you have not already shared in your application.

This essay prompt is pretty different from what you'd expect in a college application; it offers you many possibilities, both content-wise and stylistically. But don't worry: we're going to break it down for you below!

How to Write the UGA Supplement Essay

All applicants must respond to this prompt in 200-350 words. Here it is again for reference:

As noted above, this prompt isn't like most other college essay prompts in that instead of asking about your academic goals, skills, or accomplishments, it's trying to loosen you up by having you write about something fun and unique in your life.

In other words, UGA wants to tease out your less serious, less academic side to get a better sense of who you are as a person and not just as a student. Specifically, they want to know what holds meaning in your life and what kind of experience you think is worthy enough to share with the admissions committee.

Therefore, your first UGA essay must accomplish the following:

• Should be different from what you've talked about elsewhere on your application
• Should highlight your sincerity and personality
• Should reveal something important about who you are and/or what you value
• Should NOT be too serious—remember that UGA wants an "amusing" story!

Some of these qualities might go against everything you thought you knew about college essays, but it's important here to really try to be sincere, write with an authentic voice, and not shy away from showcasing your more irreverent side.

Here are some examples of possible topics you could write about:

• A time you made a faux pas or silly mistake (in or outside of school), how others reacted, and what you did to remedy the situation and/or learn from it
• A funny misunderstanding you had with someone, such as a teacher, friend, or parent, and what this experience taught you about the importance of clear communication
• Something amusing or thought-provoking you watched, listened to, read, or did, and why you found this particular thing so fascinating (this shouldn't be any old movie or book but something a little more unique)
• A unique hobby or interest you have, how you developed it, and why it's important to you

As you can see, you have a lot of options for what you can write about for this UGA essay. That said, make sure to avoid the following topics:

• Politics, religion, or any other overly serious or potentially controversial topic
• Death, illness, or any other grave event or moment from your life
• Something everyone has experienced or heard of—your topic should be unique to you
• Anything you've already mentioned in a different section of your application
• Stories about bodily functions (UGA specifically mentioned getting too many of these stories, so have some pity on them and choose a different topic!)

A Real UGA Application Essay Example + Analysis

Below is an actual UGA application essay example written by an admitted applicant named Micaela B. This essay, which is a response to an older prompt (" Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it" ), was taken from the UGA undergraduate admissions website where it was used as "an example of what we [UGA] consider a strong essay."

Here is the essay, at just around 300 words long (the word limit):

It's unassuming, the tiled top square table with mismatched chairs, its lacquer wearing thin from dishes being passed back and forth, room for four but always crowded by eleven. It may be unassuming but its power is undeniable.

As I grew older, the after-dinner conversations grew more intriguing to me. I began to stay and listen, to the politics I didn't understand and the adult gossip I shouldn't have been privy to. The dynamic of the debate shifted almost every time the topic changed, but the one thing that was consistent was that after all the plates were cleared and the chairs were pushed back in, everyone came together for dessert; pizzelles and biscotti. No afterthoughts, no bitterness.

I admire my family's ability to embrace each other for their differences, instead of letting it break us apart. There was no greater example of the lesson in acceptance than when my family learned of the change in sexuality of one of our relatives. After the dissolution of a marriage and a traditional family, the initial resentment towards her for the challenge to our family values was difficult to digest, yet unavoidable. It was the first dispute that ever brought tears to that weathered table with the peeling laquer. Instead of allowing differing lifestyles to drive a wedge between us, our family challenged each other's misconceptions, we discussed, we cried and we accepted.

Being raised in such a racially, economically and religiously diverse community, I am lucky to have developed the skill set to empathize with the people around me and understand that not everyone thinks the same way. In fact life would be pretty boring if everyone acted in uniformity; in a more harmonious world, everyone should be able to voice their opinions and speak their minds, and still come together for dessert.

Here's what makes this UGA essay work:

• It opens with a captivating description: This essay, especially the first two paragraphs, is undeniably attention-grabbing. The vivid image of the "tiled top square table" and how it is "always crowded by eleven" thrusts us directly into Micaela's boisterous life, making us feel as though we're sitting right there beside her and her family.
• It's tightly focused and easy to follow: From the beginning, we can tell that the crux of this essay is family, specifically the challenges that come with being a member of a large, diverse group. The story here really begins to open up by the third paragraph, where Micaela relates a surprising event—the "change" in a relative's sexuality—and shows how her family learned a valuable lesson in acceptance as a result.
• It's got a positive spin: Even though the essay discusses the challenges for a family to come together, it ultimately ends on a high note. This reveals to us a lot about Micaela's character, especially her commitment to harmony and her open-mindedness toward others.

4 Essential Tips for Your UGA Essays

Now, it's time to wrap up with some final helpful tips for your UGA essays.

#1: Be as Specific as Possible

Specificity is key to producing an effective and compelling college essay. In both your UGA essays, make sure you're being as specific as you can be: use real names of people or places, describe the emotions you felt at the time, and tell us what was said, both by whom and to whom.

Details are what will ultimately make the UGA admissions committee be able to more easily relate to your experiences, passions, and point of view. So don't forget to include them!

#2: Use an Authentic Voice

The essays are the time for your personality to shine, so don't hold back— use your natural voice to tell your story. It's OK to tell some jokes or emphasize your love of flowery language with a few poetic metaphors, for example.

That said, essays don't give you free rein to be impolite or to completely break the conventions of English grammar, so know what your limits are as you write.

#3: Write Concisely

You only have up to 350 words for the supplemental UGA essay, so it's important to focus on being concise. If one of your rough drafts exceeds the word limit by a lot, you can try to trim it down by deleting any irrelevant or wordy passages.

#4: Remember to Edit and Proofread

Finally, don't forget to edit and proofread your UGA essays! As you edit, spend time looking for the following:

• Irrelevant passages, phrases, and/or sentences
• Redundant words, phrases, and/or descriptions
• Awkward-sounding or misplaced phrases/passages
• Errors in spelling, grammar, and/or punctuation

Once you've done your own edit of your UGA essays, give them to someone to look over, such as a teacher, parent, or older sibling. Ask this person to proofread the essays and to offer you any advice they might have on how you can improve them in terms of organization, examples or details, word choice, etc.

What's Next?

Applying to other colleges in the eastern United States? Then check out our in-depth guides for tips on how to write the Georgia Tech essays , the Duke essays , and the Johns Hopkins essay .

Lots of colleges use the Common App and require an essay submitted through this system. Read our guide to learn all about the Common App essay prompts and how you can ensure your essay will impress admissions committees.

Still want to know more about UGA? Take a look at our UGA admissions requirements page to get info on the GPA and test scores needed to secure admission to this popular school.

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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University of Georgia’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Impactful book short response.

The transition from middle to high school is a key time for students as they reach new levels of both academic and personal discovery. Please share a book (novel, non-fiction, etc.) that had a serious impact on you during this time. Please focus more on why this book made an impact on you and less on the plot/theme of the book itself (we are not looking for a book report).

We are not restricting you to the exact years of 8th-9th grades, but rather the general timeframe of the middle to high school transition, which can extend somewhat further than one year on each end. Feel free to use your discretion in your choice of the timeline focused on the shift to your high school years.*

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

The Ultimate Guide to the University of Georgia's Supplemental Essays

Applying to the University of Georgia (UGA)? You're on the right path! UGA's beautiful campus, renowned academic programs, and spirit of community make it a top choice for many students. The college application process often comes with writing supplemental essays, and UGA is no exception. This blog post aims to guide you on how to best approach these UGA supplemental essays for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle.

UGA Supplemental Essay Prompt #1

The college admissions process can create anxiety. In an attempt to make it less stressful, please tell us an interesting or amusing story about yourself from your high school years that you have not already shared in your application.

Approach: This prompt invites you to share a unique aspect of your high school life. It could be an anecdote about a memorable event, a surprising hobby, or an unusual skill you have. Keep the tone light and enjoyable to read. Show your personality through this essay; let your sense of humor or interesting perspective shine!

During my sophomore year of high school, I decided to try out for the school's ultimate frisbee team, despite never having touched a frisbee before. In my first practice, my throws looked more like lopsided boomerangs than smooth, flat discs. At the team’s first game, I was given the task of throwing the first "pull," the ultimate frisbee equivalent of a kickoff. My nerves took over, and instead of the frisbee soaring downfield, it flew straight up and then veered right, landing in the nearby tennis court. This sparked a roaring laughter from both teams, and even the referee couldn’t contain his chuckles. I was mortified but joined the laughter because of the absurdity of the situation. That moment of shared laughter taught me the value of not taking myself too seriously and helped me bond with my teammates. By the end of the season, my throws had improved, and while I'll never be an ultimate frisbee champion, I'll always be the champion of good humor on the team.

UGA Supplemental Essay Prompt #2

The University of Georgia community creates, contributes, and applies knowledge in many ways. Describe an example of your leadership and the impact it had on others.

Approach: Here, UGA wants to understand how you lead and contribute to a community. Reflect on moments when you stepped up to take charge—maybe in an academic setting, a club, a sports team, or volunteering. How did your leadership make a difference? Remember, leadership isn't just about being the president of a club. You could have demonstrated leadership through initiative, teamwork, or problem-solving.

In my junior year, I served as the project manager for our school's Robotics Club. Our team was tasked with designing a robot for a local competition, but we hit a snag when our design kept failing during tests. As project manager, I decided to take a new approach. I organized a brainstorming session, where everyone, including the newest members, was encouraged to propose solutions. One of the freshman members suggested a minor adjustment to the weight distribution, which many had overlooked. His solution turned out to be the key to fixing our design! By fostering an environment where every voice was valued, we not only built a successful robot but also strengthened our team cohesion.

UGA Supplemental Essay Prompt #3 (Optional)

In our diverse and interdependent world, please tell us about an experience that demonstrated or gave you the opportunity to understand the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Approach: UGA values diversity and inclusion, and this prompt asks you to share an experience where you came to understand its significance. It could be a personal encounter, an event, or a revelation from a book or film. The key is to convey your ability to learn from diverse perspectives and experiences and to contribute to an inclusive campus culture.

In high school, I volunteered for a local organization that supports refugee resettlement. One of my primary tasks involved tutoring a young girl from Syria. The language barrier and cultural differences made the task challenging at first, but I gradually found ways to connect with her through visuals, storytelling, and games. The experience showed me the value of patience, empathy, and open-mindedness in understanding and appreciating the diverse backgrounds and experiences of others. It also reinforced the importance of equity in access to education, regardless of one's origins.

UGA Supplemental Essay Short Answer Question

UGA’s 2023 First-Year Odyssey Program offers more than 300 seminar courses for new students. Which do you find most appealing and why?

Approach: Research is key here. Explore the First-Year Odyssey program, select a seminar that genuinely interests you, and articulate why. Link it back to your academic interests, career goals, or intellectual curiosity.

Sure, let's dive into example responses for each of the University of Georgia supplemental essays.

UGA Supplemental Essay Prompt #3

I find "Unleashing Creativity Through Visual Storytelling" particularly appealing among UGA's First-Year Odyssey seminars. As a budding filmmaker, this course aligns with my passion for storytelling and my desire to delve deeper into the techniques of visual narration. The opportunity to analyze the work of acclaimed filmmakers and apply those insights to a project of my own is thrilling. Moreover, it would be invaluable in preparing me for my intended major in Film Studies.

Remember, your essays are a chance to showcase your personality, experiences, values, and goals. Be authentic, thoughtful, and concise. Tailor your responses to UGA, showing why you're a good fit for their community.

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How to Ace the 2023/2024 UGA Supplemental Essays

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Many colleges’ supplemental essay questions touch on common themes, such as your academic interests or what communities you belong to. The UGA supplemental essays, however, are a different story. The University of Georgia asks students to answer a unique, playful prompt that asks you to share a memorable high school story. 

Let’s explore this unconventional prompt and how to craft an excellent response. 

Also see:  How to write an essay about yourself

“The college admissions process can create anxiety. In an attempt to make it less stressful, please tell us an interesting or amusing story about yourself from your high school years that you have not already shared in your application (200-350 words)” 

Try not to roll your eyes at an essay prompt saying it hopes to de-stress the college process. Seriously, embrace this message! There is still expectation to write a nice essay, of course; but trust that admissions wants you to stop putting so much pressure on yourself. Treat this space as an enjoyable opportunity to share a story reflective of your personality. Brainstorming with this more relaxed mindset ensures your voice comes across natural and authentic. 

At the same time, the openness of this response can be overwhelming. After all, high school comes with four years of ‘interesting’ and ‘amusing’ stories–how can you pick just one? Start by making a list of stories that stand out when you reflect on high school. Next, look at what you’ve conveyed about yourself through your personal statement and activities section. Which character traits have you not revealed that are key to who you are? Or, is there a value you emphasize throughout your application that another story can strengthen? 

Sample story ideas

One example could be writing about the time you completely bombed your tenth grade piano recital performance. This anecdote definitely ticks the ‘amusing’ response. Describing a cringe-worthy moment which you now laugh about showcases humility. It also reveals that you have hobbies, took a risk to play on-stage, and handled the embarrassment with composure and perseverance. 

Another route might be related to your intended major, graphic design. You could talk about making a mock-up of an album cover for your favorite artist. After DM’ing it to them on Instagram, the fact that they used your work on their next record is truly remarkable! This definitely qualifies as an ‘interesting’ story. It shows your initiative, talent, and genuine love for your area of study, as well. 

What is awesome about this prompt is the creative freedom it gives your writing. For the first example, you should set the scene by describing the iconic chords of “Bennie and the Jets” struck so egregiously so off-key. Then the panic that set in. Your mind going blank, fingers sweating. Almost throwing in the towel. The awkward applause. For the second example, the inspiration for the album. The hours spent tweaking the message you’d send in your favorite artist’s inbox. Show off your writing and storytelling skills here! 

Also see:  What looks good on college applications?

Questions to consider: 

• Have you had any interactions with famous people or your role models?
• What is a stroke of bad luck you’ve experienced? How did you deal with it? 
• Do you have any impactful stories from traveling? 
• What is your go-to icebreaker or fun fact? 

Also see:  How to write a 250 word essay

Additional resources

As you’re working on college applications, we’re sure that you’ve juggling a lot of tasks at once. There are many decisions to be made and things to accomplish. Luckily, we can help. Check out our guide on how many colleges to apply to , how to find safety, reach, and match schools , and how to get a college application fee waiver . We can also help you fill out your Common App Activities and Additional Information sections to ensure that you present every aspect of your application as best you can. Finally, check out our insider’s perspective of what happens inside a college admissions office to get an idea of how your application will be reviewed. Good luck!

Other colleges to consider

• Georgia Tech (Atlanta, GA)
• Tulane University (New Orleans, LA)
• University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)

Next steps for students

We hope you feel ready to rock the UGA supplemental essays after reading our guide. By now, you should have all the tools to take a successful trip down high school memory lane. Have fun with this prompt and your sincerity will be evident! Make sure that you apply for all the scholarships you qualify for too!

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UGA Supplemental Essay 2023-24 – Prompt and Advice

July 14, 2023

Over 43,000 students from around the world applied for a place in the UGA Class of 2027 . Further, the EA round in the 2022-23 cycle broke the previous year’s all-time high mark. This means that the UGA supplemental essay may be even more important in 2023-24 than in previous years.

Last year, the average incoming freshman took 10 AP, IB, or dual enrollment courses in high school. The average student also earned a weighted GPA above a 4.0. The GPA range for admitted freshmen was 1270-1470. The purpose of this information isn’t to engender fear in the hearts of Bulldog hopefuls; rather, we want to make sure that you take the task of presenting yourself in the best possible light very seriously.

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

Although it only has one (brand new) general essay prompt, UGA’s supplemental section still affords applicants an opportunity to illustrate what makes them uniquely qualified for admission. Below is the University of Georgia’s supplemental prompt for the 2023-24 admissions cycle along with our advice for composing an effective essay.

2023-2024 University of Georgia Essay Question

“The transition from middle to high school is a key time for students as they reach new levels of both academic and personal discovery. Please share a book (novel, non-fiction, etc.) that had a serious impact on you during this time. Please focus more on why this book made an impact on you and less on the plot/theme of the book itself (we are not looking for a book report).”

FYI – We are not restricting you to the exact years of 8th-9th grades, but rather the general timeframe of the middle to high school transition, which can extend somewhat further than one year on each end. Feel free to use your discretion in your choice of the timeline focused on the shift to your high school years.

(200-300 Words)

UGA Supplemental Essays 2023-24 (Continued)

This isn’t your average supplemental essay so make sure you don’t produce an average response. The highly personal nature of this prompt gives you the chance to make a strong impression on a UGA admissions officer. Since you won’t have a chance to interview at this large flagship school, this essay (as well as the main Common App essay) is one of the best chances you’ll have to forge an intimate connection with a member of the admissions committee.

You may have to dig back into your childhood bookshelves for this one. If you are having trouble, referring to the following lists may jog your memory:

Common Middle School-Assigned Texts

• The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• Night by Elie Wiesel
• Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
• The Giver by Lois Lowry
• Roll of Thunder , Hear My Cry by Mildred Taylor
• The entire Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
• Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
• The Call of the Wild by Jack London
• The Pigman by Paul Zindel
• Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

Common 10th-Grade Assigned Texts

• Animal Farm by George Orwell
• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
• Hiroshima by John Hersey
• A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry
• The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe
• Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
• Walden by Henry David Thoreau
• Black Boy by Richard Wright

Of course, the book you pick may not have been assigned by a teacher, Additionally, note that the instructions give you the right to move back into 7th grade or forward into 10th grade if you wish. Remember, it can be a fiction or non-fiction text.

Big-picture thoughts on the “middle school book” essay

With a 300-word limit, you have a substantial amount of real estate to play around with here. There is enough space in which to tell a fairly substantial and detailed story. Still, in all likelihood, getting this one precisely right will involve a round or two of revision, ideally with some insight and feedback from a trusted adult or peer in the process. Some tips to keep in mind include:

• Don’t feel boxed into one particular structure for this essay. You could tell a story in multiple acts or present a slice-of-life vignette that took place in a single afternoon.
• You can use this opportunity to reveal something deep and meaningful about your personality/character.
• Make sure the content of this essay doesn’t overlap with your Common App essay. Always remember that an actual human being is going to be reading both documents; they don’t want to read two similar accounts of the same event.

How important is the UGA supplemental essay?

The essays (both the Common App essay and the supplemental one) are “considered” by the UGA admissions committee. This places them on the same tier of importance as recommendations, extracurricular activities, talent/ability, character/personal qualities, first-generation status, volunteer work, and work experience.

At UGA, three factors are “most important” in the admissions process. Those are: rigor of your coursework, GPA, and standardized test scores. However, application components like the supplemental essay can serve as a critical tie-breaker between similarly-credentialed applicants.

Want Personalized Essay Assistance with your UGA Supplemental Essay?

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

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University of Georgia

Standard admissions process.

The UGA School of Law Juris Doctor degree program is a full-time day program. First-year students may begin classes only in the fall semester.  

Application Instructions

All applicants are required to apply online through LSAC.org .  A completed School of Law application must be received by the School of Law Office of Admissions by 11:59 p.m. ET on June 1, 2024,  in order to be considered for admission to the 2024 entering class. All required supporting materials must be received by the School of Law Office of Admissions by June 30, 2024 . For priority merit scholarship consideration, applications should be completed and received in the Office of Admissions by February 1, 2024 . Applications received or completed after the deadline may be considered by the Admission Committee at its discretion.

Applicants need not possess a baccalaureate degree at the time the application for admission is submitted. Except for 3+3 applicants, in order to register for classes, it is necessary to provide documentation the degree has been conferred.

Application decisions are sent to applicants via regular U.S. mail; therefore, it is important that you provide us with any updates to the current mailing address submitted with your application. In addition, application decisions post immediately online. You can check your application status online . Decisions are made on a rolling basis as files become complete beginning in late fall and continuing through early summer.

Items to accompany the application form include: Admission Essay Each applicant is required to provide a brief personal statement.   Application and Processing Fee All applicants are required to pay a $50 (U.S. funds) non-refundable application and processing fee. This fee must be paid online when applying through LSAC.org .

• In the LSAT section of the application, applicants should enter a 0 for the test score.
• Please indicate the type of test taken (GRE) and enter the score received
• Please indicate the month and year the test was taken

Foreign-educated applicants must register with the CAS and submit their transcripts through the CAS. Except for foreign work through a study abroad, consortium, or exchange program sponsored by a U.S. or Canadian institution, transcripts for all post-secondary work completed outside of the United States, its territories, or Canada must be evaluated by this service. The service is included in the CAS registration fee. 

Letters of Recommendation Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation. It is preferred that the letters of recommendation be no more than two years old. We prefer letters from professors, employers, or other recommenders who can attest to your ability to enter a competitive professional program. If you have been out of school for multiple years, employer references will suffice. Applicants are required to use the letter of recommendation service provided by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Applicants using the LSAC letter of recommendation Service must use the Letter of Recommendation Form provided on LSAC.org .

Resume Submit a resume detailing your education, employment, skills, honors, awards, and accomplishments. Upload the document as an attachment to the application form.

International Student Requirement All new international students at UGA, including the School of Law, are required to check in with the  Office of Global Engagement  (OGE) by phone at 001-706-542-2900 or by email at  [email protected] . F-1 and J-1 students in particular must be careful to check in with  OGE  in a timely fashion. Your student record cannot be registered with the government until you have completed the immigration check-in process. In addition, you will not be able to register for classes until you check in with  OGE .

Applicants who intend to practice law should be aware: In addition to a bar examination, there are character, fitness, and other qualifications for admission to the bar in every U.S. jurisdiction.  Applicants are encouraged to determine the requirements for any jurisdiction in which they intend to seek admission by contacting the jurisdiction.  Addresses for all relevant agencies are available through the National Conference of Bar Examiners .

Applicants for admission to the 2023 entering class who did not enroll must pay the application fee and submit a new application and supporting materials in order to be considered for the 2024 entering class. Applicants for admission to the 2024 entering class will not be able to use any previously submitted materials. Transcripts must be sent to the Law School Admissions Council and a new LSAC Law School Report must be provided. 

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How to Get Into University of Georgia: Admissions Stats + Tips

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How hard is it to get into the university of georgia, average academic profile of accepted university of georgia students, what is the university of georgia looking for.

• How to Improve Your Chances of Getting into the University of Georgia  

The University of Georgia (UGA) is the birthplace of public-funded higher education in the U.S. UGA was the nation’s first state-chartered university and sparked a movement that still resonates more than two centuries later—in 2019, about 14.5 million students enrolled in public colleges. The University of Georgia didn’t just set the idea of public higher education in motion, it’s a leader in it. UGA counts itself among CollegeVine’s top 15 public universities in the U.S.     

UGA accepted 15,350 students to its Class of 2025 from a pool of 39,359 applicants—an acceptance rate of 39% . 

The University of Georgia’s acceptance rate is low, but your personal chances there may be higher or lower depending on your profile strength. CollegeVine’s free admissions calculator can help you to better understand your odds at UGA. It uses factors like your grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities to estimate your chance of admission and offer insight to improve your profile.  

The average high school GPA of the University of Georgia’s Class of 2025 is 4.02 . 

The middle 50% SAT range of the UGA’s Class of 2025 is 1220-1390 . The middle 50% ACT range is 27-32 .

The University of Georgia didn’t report the average class rank for its Class of 2025, but it’s reasonable to assume it is high. Over 88% of the Class of 2025’s high school course grades were As. Approximately 5% of UGA’s Class of 2025 were high school valedictorians or salutatorians. 

The University of Georgia is a state-funded institution; consequently, they receive and accept a large number of Georgia residents. UGA welcomed students from more than 520 Georgia high schools and from 149 Georgia counties to its Class of 2025— out-of-state students make up just 15% of the student body . 

Students from Georgia may be in the majority on UGA’s campus, but don’t let that trick you into believing that the Class of 2025 lacks diversity—37% are minorities. Students in UGA’s Class of 2025 represent 43 states and 53 different countries. The top 10 states, with the exception of Georgia, represented in the university’s Class of 2025 are:

• North Carolina 
• South Carolina 
• New Jersey 
• California 

How the University of Georgia Evaluates Applications

According to their 2020-2021 Common Data Set, the University of Georgia considers the following factors “very important” :

• Course rigor

These factors are “important” :

• Test scores 

These are “considered” :

• Recommendations 
• Extracurricular activities 
• First generation 
• Volunteer work 
• Work experience 

And these are “not considered” :

• Geographic residence 
• State residence 
• Religious affiliation 
• Racial/ethnic status 
• Applicant interest 

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting into the University of Georgia 

1. achieve at least a 4.02 gpa while taking the most challenging classes available.

The University of Georgia is serious about academics. According to UGA , “the grades that you earn in your high school courses play the most important role in determining your competitiveness for admission to UGA.” UGA only considers two factors “very important” to admissions: course vigor and GPA. The average GPA of the University of Georgia’s Class of 2025 is 4.02 and more than 12,450 admitted students have a core high school GPA of 4.00 or higher . 

It’s more than great grades that set students apart at UGA, it’s the level of coursework undertaken. Students admitted to UGA’s Class of 2025 took, on average, 10 AP/IB/Dual Enrollment courses —with a mid-range of seven to 12 courses. 

Selective schools like the University of Georgia use a tool known as the “ Academic Index ” to expedite the admissions process. Academic Index is your entire academic performance represented by a single number. If your Academic Index does not meet UGA’s standards, you risk being deemed academically unqualified and not having your application given serious consideration. 

If your GPA is lower than UGA’s standard, and you’re early in your high school career, check out our tips for increasing your GPA . If you’re a junior or senior, it’s more challenging to increase your GPA—this makes earning higher test scores the best way to improve your Academic Index.

2. Aim for a 1220 SAT and 1390 ACT 

After GPA and course rigor, UGA values test scores. It’s the only factor that the university views as “important.” The middle 50% SAT and ACT range of the UGA’s Class of 2025 are 1220-1390 and 27-32 .  

UGA super scores both the SAT and ACT and will use your highest section scores from all of the times you sat for the test to create a composite score. Because of this, a sound strategy to maximize your score (and odds of admission) is to take the SAT or ACT between two and three times. Research from the College Board (the group that administers the SAT) found that 63% of SAT test-takers increased their score by taking the test more than once.

To improve your SAT/ACT score, check out these free CollegeVine resources:

• How to Get a Perfect 1600 Score on the SAT
• How to Get a Perfect 36 Score on the ACT
• More SAT Info and Tips
• More ACT Info and Tips

UGA was test-optional for the 2019-2020 admissions cycle and will continue that policy into the 2021-2022 admissions cycle— more than 40% of the Class of 2025 was admitted without a test score . That said, it’s still a good idea to submit a test score if you can take an exam safely and score at, or above, the 25th percentile of accepted students. You can get recommendations on whether or not you should apply test-optional using our free chancing engine . 

3. Cultivate one or two Tier 1-2 extracurriculars (find your “spike”)

UGA might only “consider” extracurricular activities, but they’re looking for interesting students who are excited about the world around them. As for the myth of colleges looking for well-rounded students, the University of Georgia says:

It is our goal as we review applications to build a well-rounded class of students. If our class is full only of students that are well rounded, it could get a little bit boring. We like edges and we like passion!

One way to show your edges and passion is with a highly developed interest known as a “ spike ,” and one or two impressive supporting extracurricular activities. How impressive are your activities outside of the classroom? The four tiers of extracurriculars provide a good guide to judging how colleges view extracurricular activities. 

• Tier 1 activities are the most influential you can have on your college resume; they demonstrate exceptional achievement or leadership and are extremely rare. These include winning a prestigious national competition or attending a distinguished merit-based summer program. 
• Tier 2 activities display big accomplishments or great leadership but are more common than Tier 1 extracurriculars. For example, Tier 2 activities include winning a regional award or earning state-level recognition in athletics or music. 
• Tier 3 extracurriculars are great for highlighting your interests outside of the classroom but are more common and don’t hold the same weight as those in the higher tiers. Holding a leadership position in a well-known club or serving as student body president are good examples of Tier 3 activities. 
• Tier 4 is home to the most common and least influential extracurricular activities, like being a member of a club, participating in a sport, or playing an instrument.  

4. Write engaging essays

The University of Georgia only “considers” essays when making admissions decisions. That said, essays are one of the best ways to set yourself apart from other applicants. UGA requires applicants to submit two essays. One of the required essays is longer and uses the prompts from either the Common Application or Coalition Application. The second essay is shorter and asks students to respond to the following prompt:

The college admissions process can create anxiety. In an attempt to make it less stressful, please tell us an interesting or amusing story about yourself from your high school years that you have not already shared in your application.

In general, you should use the essay to highlight what makes you unique by writing in your own voice and to demonstrate both why you belong at the school and how you’ll benefit from it once on campus. For specific advice on how to write a compelling UGA essay, check out our article, “ How to Write the University of Georgia Essays 2021-2022 .”

5. Apply Early Action

The University of Georgia has an early action admissions process. Early action is non-binding and doesn’t limit you from applying in any way to another college. If admitted, you have until May 1 to make a decision of whether or not to attend UGA. 

How to Apply to the University of Georgia 

Application requirements.

The University of Georgia accepts the Common Application, Coalition Application, and UGA Application. Other requirements include:

• Secondary school report 
• Transcript 
• UGA supplemental essay  

Other optional materials include: 

• Letters of Recommendation 

Learn more about the University of Georgia 

Interested in learning more about UGA? Check out these other informative articles: 

• What Does it Cost to Attend the University of Georgia?
• University of Georgia Essay Example by an Accepted Student
• University of Georgia Student Panel
• Top 15 Public Universities in the U.S.

Want to know your chances at UGA? Calculate your odds for free right now .

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

University of Georgia 2019-20 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision: 

University of Georgia 2019-20 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 2 essays of 200-300 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Oddball

The college admissions process can create anxiety. In an attempt to make it less stressful, please tell us an interesting or amusing story about yourself from your high school years that you have not already shared in your application. (200-300 words) *Required

The University of Georgia knows that college applications can be stressful as heck! The admissions department at UGA wants to give you the opportunity to tell a fun story and show them what it would be like to hang with you. This is where you can let your silly, humorous side show, recounting the hilarious tale that still makes your family members howl with laughter (so long as it’s admissions-appropriate, of course!). Or perhaps try approaching this prompt from the “interesting” rather than the “amusing” angle, recounting the time your Sicilian grandmother taught you how to make spaghetti from scratch. The only real requirement here is that you tell a colorful story, so make sure your essay has a clear narrative arc with a beginning, middle, and end. And of course, in addition to telling admissions something new , aim to entertain them with your lively, descriptive prose!

Choose one of the following four (200-300 words):

Uga’s 2017 commencement speaker ernie johnson (class of ’79) told a story from his youth about what he refers to as blackberry moments. he has described these as “the sweet moments that are right there to be had but we’re just too focused on what we’re doing …, and we see things that are right there within our reach and we neglect them. blackberry moments can be anything that makes somebody else’s day, that makes your day, that are just sweet moments that you always remember.” tell us about one of your “blackberry moments” from the past five years..

Aye aye aye, this is a long prompt! UGA wants to see you, a Gen Z teenager, reflect on one of those small, heartfelt moments that made your or someone else’s day–the kind that could have been easily missed if you hadn’t been paying attention. This prompt is an opportunity to showcase your humanity, ability to connect with others, and capacity for discovering meaning within ordinary moments. Maybe you complimented a fellow student on her vintage batman shirt on the way to school, and after chatting about her love for superheroes, realized you were both attending the same cosplay event that weekend! Did you meet up at the event? Did the interaction encourage you to engage with strangers more often? Maybe you saw a woman struggling to train her to Labrador puppy to walk on the leash and offered some of your sage advice from years of living with dogs. How did that moment make you feel? Maybe your grandfather gave you some advice that you never forgot underneath a canopy of glittering stars during your family’s annual camping trip. These, and other moments that linger in your mind (or heart) long after they occur, are ripe for the picking when it comes to this prompt!

What is the hardest part of being a teenager now? What is the best part? What advice would you give to a younger sibling or friend (assuming they would listen to you)?

Okay, the University of Georgia is absolutely loving this year’s Coalition Application prompts. Of the three remaining prompts you have to choose from, two are carbon copies of Coalition App prompts. This prompt is the Coalition Application’s personal statement prompt 4 , which we already made a guide for, so check it out ! In the meantime, here’s a quick sneak peak into everything that you need to know. For starters, consider the following questions: What does it mean to be an adolescent today, and how is being an adolescent in 2019 different or similar to being an adolescent in previous generations? What about being a teenager do you most enjoy or despise, and why? What challenges have you faced as a teenager as you navigate the complex, digital world of Snapchat and Cardi B, and what have you ultimately learned from those challenges? In weighing on these timely questions, this prompt gives you the opportunity to show admissions that you can be insightful, reflective, and exercise perspective. If you decide to respond to this prompt, feel free to inject some playful humor into your response! And don’t forget to use a specific example or story to back up each of your opinions (so that your claims have substance behind them). Ultimately, as with all college essay prompts, your response here should reveal something new about you. So choose an aspect of modern teenagehood that is personal to you, and run with it!

Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.

This prompt (a.k.a Coalition App’s prompt #1 ) should be a good fit for any tale you have to tell that “demonstrates your character,” which should be a base requirement of any essay you submit, regardless of the prompt you’re responding to. So, how do you define yourself? Which characteristics make up the core of your personality? Are you resourceful and tenacious? Are you observant? Imaginative? Witty? Think back on some of the most memorable moments in your life—the moments that make you feel proud, or the moments where you learned something important. Did you take an innovative approach to a school assignment that resulted in high praise from your teacher and classmates? What does this say about your creativity, originality, or willingness to take risks both in and out of the classroom? Maybe you spent your childhood summers volunteering with your mom at an animal sanctuary. What did that experience teach you about empathy and how did that experience ultimately impact you? What do these stories say about you and how you interact with the world? UGA specifically asks you to describe an experience, so if the idea you have in your head is character-related but not tied to a specific event or occurrence, you might want to revisit your brainstorming notes until you find a memorable scene to mine for this prompt!

Describe a problem, possibly related to your area of study, which you would like to solve. Explain its importance to you and what actions you would take to solve this issue.

This prompt is eerily similar to the Common Application’s prompt #4 and our advice is the same: Think about what challenges the future might bring, both personally and on a global scale. How might you be part of meaningful progress and problem-solving moving forward? What kind of mark would you like to leave on the world? How do you think you can positively contribute to a cause that is important to you? Maybe you are worried about how climate change will impact people in developing nations, so you would like to major in environmental science and be part of the initiative to reduce greenhouse gasses. It is important that the problem you choose relates to your experiences, passions, or aspirations in some way, and that you make that connection clear to admissions. And of course, don’t forget to write about how you would approach solving this issue! Admissions wants to see that you can think critically and create concrete plans for achieving your goals, so put on your problem-solving hat, and dive in!

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So Your High School Doesn’t Offer APs—Are AP Exams Still Important For College Admissions?

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Brown University

Advanced Placement courses are offered at thousands of high schools across the U.S.— approximately 35% of public high school graduates in the Class of 2023 took at least one AP exam, and approximately 2.8 million students sat for AP exams in 2023. However, a large number of schools do not offer AP courses. In many cases, this is due to a lack of resources—though strides have been made to increase access to AP courses in underprivileged schools, a gap in access persists along racial and socioeconomic lines. In other cases, schools are ditching the AP curriculum as a result of their educational philosophy. In 2018, elite private schools in the D.C. area such as Sidwell Friends and Georgetown Prep announced their intention to phase out AP classes, citing their desire for a more independent curriculum and a growing frustration with the AP’s orientation toward testing rather than other metrics for success.

Despite these drawbacks, AP courses and exams remain highly regarded by many colleges and universities, as they offer insight into students’ academic acumen and potential to complete college coursework successfully. As a result, many students without access to AP courses are left wondering whether they should still register, study and sit for AP exams.

First and foremost, students should know that colleges and universities evaluate their applications in the context of their school and the opportunities available to them. This means that if students did not have AP classes available to them at their schools, admissions officers will not expect to see AP courses or AP exam scores included in their applications. As such, these students’ applications will not be disadvantaged in any way by not including AP exams.

That being said, there are some scenarios in which a student may still wish to take an AP exam despite not having taken an AP course. These are the top three reasons that students might consider sitting for one or more AP exams:

1. To Earn College Credit

One of the main reasons students take AP exams is to earn college credit. Many colleges and universities grant credit for high AP exam scores (typically for 4s or 5s). By earning credit through AP exams, you may be able to fulfill prerequisites, skip introductory courses, or accelerate your progress toward graduation once you enroll in college. However, this is not the case at every school. In order to determine whether the time and effort you will put into studying and taking an AP exam will be justified, you should research whether the schools you are considering applying to give college credit for high AP exam scores. You can often find this information on admissions or departmental websites, or by contacting admissions representatives at each respective school. You can also check the College Board website to see if the schools on your list accept AP credits, but note that these policies change frequently, so you should still follow up with the schools for verification. If a handful of the schools on your list do accept high scores for credit, it may be a strategic choice to sit for one or more exam.

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Patriots select north carolina quarterback drake maye with no 3 pick in nfl draft, ‘baby reindeer’ star says real martha searches need to stop, 2. to use exam scores in lieu of the sat or act.

As Ivy League and other top schools reinstate their standardized testing requirements, some schools have announced their intention to allow students to submit test scores from AP examinations in place of ACT or SAT scores. Dartmouth allows students applying from schools outside of the U.S. to satisfy their testing requirement by submitting three AP exam scores. Meanwhile, Yale’s new test-flexible policy also allows students applying domestically to submit AP and IB scores in lieu of other standardized tests. If you are applying internationally or if you have reason to believe that you will achieve a stronger score on AP exams than on the SAT or ACT, you can consider sitting for the exams. Note that not all schools have such flexible testing policies, so you will likely still need to sit for the SAT or the ACT.

3. To Demonstrate Your Academic Abilities

It is important to remember that while they are not the only way to demonstrate their academic capabilities, AP exams are an unbiased and quantifiable way to assess students’ preparedness for college coursework. Students who struggled academically earlier in their high school years or who want to highlight their skills in a specific discipline may benefit from the inclusion of AP scores in their applicant profiles.

Finally, while students who do not have access to AP classes should consider their options and make a strategic decision about taking exams on the basis of their applicant profiles and academic goals, students who have taken AP courses absolutely should take AP exams. Failing to sit for the exams will not only foreclose the possibility of earning college credit, but it will also reflect poorly on your application and raise questions with admissions committees.

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We are pleased that you’re considering becoming a part of the UGA community. We want to do everything we can to answer your questions, guide you through the transfer application process, and introduce you to the University of Georgia.

Transfer Eligibility: Requirements for Consideration

Transfer consideration requirements are subject to change for each semester as the University reviews space availability for that term. Different GPA baselines are set depending on the hours that transfer into the University of Georgia, with a change in class standing every 30 semester hours. Additionally, some colleges and departments have limits on the number of students in their programs, so an applicant’s intended major might be a factor in the admission decision.

When reviewing a file, the best indication of academic success at UGA is a student’s calculated transfer GPA along with the number of classes completed. In calculating your GPA, we use all academic grades you have earned in transferable courses (including D’s, F’s and WF’s) from every college you have attended. If a course is repeated, we will use both grades. As well, we only review transfer work with specific course titles, course numbers and credit hours.

Transfer admission decisions are made on a space-as-available basis. Thus, there are neither GPA nor completed credit hour levels that guarantee admission. To be eligible for transfer admission consideration, students must meet one of the following sets of criteria established below and submit the required materials in accordance with appropriate deadlines.

You are eligible for transfer admission consideration to the undergraduate program on UGA’s Athens campus if you have:

• 30-59 completed hours of transferable credit by the application deadline,
• graduated from high school at least 12 months prior to the term of intended enrollment,
• completed at least one year of college by the term of intended enrollment, and
• a 3.30 or higher calculated transfer GPA.

You are eligible for transfer admission consideration to the undergraduate programs on UGA’s Athens, Griffin , Tifton , or Online campuses if you have:

• 60 or more completed hours of transferable credit by the application deadline,*
• a 2.80 or higher calculated transfer GPA.
• Tifton, Griffin, or Online campuses require Program Coordinator Authorization.

* For Spring of 2025 and beyond, the transfer consideration level for students with 60 or more completed hours of transfer credit will change to a 3.00 or higher calculated transfer GPA.

If your intended major at UGA is an Undergraduate Program within a high demand major, please be aware there are additional requirements and a second application process after the offer admissions into the UGA Undergraduate Program.

• For a comprehensive list of high-demand majors, please visit the webpage: https://transfer.uga.edu/planning_ahead/applying_to_your_major/
• For additional UGA Pre-Transfer Academic Advisement resources, please visit the UGA Office of Transfer Services webpage: https://transfer.uga.edu/planning_ahead/pre-transfer-advising/

Transfer Application Process

To be eligible for consideration as a transfer applicant, the following materials must be postmarked no later than the deadline for the respective term to which a student is applying:

• Application for Transfer Admission
• Non-refundable $70 application processing fee
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, including work completed through joint or dual enrollment programs, study abroad programs, or as a summer transient or other such program
• To learn more about online opportunities visit the Other Students section of this site

Please be certain to submit the most recent transcript available to you documenting final grades in the most recent completed semester or term.

Please note that high school performance and SAT/ACT results are not considered for transfer applicants and should not be submitted.

Additionally, you can learn more about the transfer process by visiting the Office of Transfer Services.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ONLY

Language proficiency.

If English is not your first language, you must show proof of English Proficiency. Choose one of the following ways to prove proficiency:

• An official transcript with the equivalent of English 1101 and 1102 (first-year composition) at an accredited U.S. institution, minimum 2.5 combined GPA OR
• SAT R – EBRW score of 430, OR
• SAT I – Critical Reading Score of 430, OR
• ACT English section score of 17 or higher OR
• A band score of 6.5 or better on the IELTS OR
• Submit a TOEFL score of at least 213 on the computer-based exam, or a 550 paper based score, or an 80 on the internet based TOEFL.
• The University of Georgia accepts TOEFL and IELTS results from testing headquarters.
• UGA’s TOEFL and SAT code is 5813, the ACT code is 0872
• Scores must not be more than 5 years old

Credit Evaluation

If your college is outside of the United States and not accredited by a U.S. Regional Association of Colleges and Schools, we REQUIRE that you use an evaluation service that does a “course by course” evaluation to ensure that your transcript is evaluated properly (if you do not submit, your application to UGA will be incomplete ).  These are the approved evaluation services:  Josef Silny & Associates, Inc. International Education Consultants ,  World Education Services, Inc. ,  Education Credential Evaluators, Inc. , Scholaro , International Education Research Foundation, Inc. , Lisano International , International Education Evaluations, Inc ., and SpanTran

For International Transfers, non-transferable coursework includes English as a Second Language, more than one hour of Physical Education, applied, technical, diploma or certificate credit. In addition, Non-US Institution Credit is awarded without letter grades.

Applicants with less than 30 completed transferable credit hours as of the application deadline are ineligible for transfer consideration and will be denied admission.

Why is this the case? Transfer applicants are evaluated solely on their demonstrated college-level performance because college-level work is the best indicator of readiness for UGA. High school academic record and standardized tests are not considered. Thus, the process necessitates an appropriate body of work at the college level be completed before a well-informed offer of admission can be made.

– Application Fee – Official transcript from every college/university you’ve attended (including dual enrollment work completed during high school)

Please make sure you get your application and supplemental materials to us in the required timeframe.