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5 min read
Published on: Apr 29, 2025
Last updated on: Apr 29, 2025
Each year, thousands of students finish high school and apply for college. However, they have to write essays to the colleges detailing their real-life experiences and why they deserve a spot at the college.
But what makes a great college essay? What do successful students write about?
This blog will break it down. Below are real essay examples that helped students get into top universities. These essays are not just well-written—they tell powerful stories, show personality, and prove why the applicant belongs at their dream school.
Let’s have a look!
Every college application has a word limit, and writing a strong essay within that limit can be tricky. A short essay must be clear and meaningful without extra words. A longer essay needs to stay interesting and focused. Knowing how word count affects an essay can help students plan their writing better.
Below are different types of college application essay examples based on word count. These examples show how students can write great essays while following the word limit.
These essays show how to tell a personal story, stay organized, and make an impact—all within the word limit.
College application essays come in different types, depending on the school and the program. Some essays focus on personal experiences, while others highlight academic interests or creative talents. Understanding different categories can help students choose the right approach for their essays.
Below are different types of common college application essay examples based on category:
Each of these examples shows how students can write essays that match their goals, interests, and the expectations of the colleges they are applying to.
The Common Application, or Common App, is a platform used by over 900 colleges and universities in the U.S. and around the world.
It allows students to apply to multiple schools with one application, including a personal essay. This helps college admissions officers reading the essay learn more about them beyond grades and test scores.
Each year, the Common App releases a set of essay prompts for students to choose from.
Below we have answered the prompts released in 2025 as well as why they work:
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.
Example Theme: A Love for Coding That Changed a Community A student passionate about coding saw a problem in their town—small businesses were struggling to survive during the pandemic. They built an app to connect local businesses with volunteers who could help. But this essay was not about coding itself. It was about seeing a need, taking action, and making an impact. |
Why It Worked: The essay showed problem-solving skills, leadership, and a commitment to helping others. Colleges look for students who use their talents to create change, not just personal success.
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?
Example Theme: Overcoming a Speech Impediment One student struggled with a stutter since childhood. Speaking in public was a constant fear, and even everyday conversations felt stressful. Instead of avoiding the problem, they joined a debate team in middle school. The first few speeches were difficult, but over time, their confidence grew. The essay ended with a victory—winning a local speaking competition. |
Why It Worked: This essay showed resilience and self-growth. Admissions officers love stories about overcoming challenges because they prove that the student is determined, adaptable, and always improving.
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
Example Theme: Changing Perspectives on Immigration A student grew up believing that immigration policies were strict for a reason. But after volunteering at a refugee center, they met families who had fled war and poverty. Their views started to change as they listened to real stories. The essay described this shift in perspective and how it shaped the student’s future goals. |
Why It Worked: The essay showed intellectual curiosity, empathy, and personal growth. Colleges want students who think critically, question ideas, and learn from new experiences.
Here are some simple tips to get the most out of the examples in the blog:
Wrapping Up!
College application essays are a chance for students to tell their unique stories. These examples can serve as inspiration, but originality is key. Admissions officers want to hear authentic voices, not copied ideas.
For students who need extra support, our essay writing service is here to help.
Whether it’s writing a standout college application essay or perfecting any other type of academic writing, we offer expert guidance, plagiarism-free work, and on-time delivery.
So, if you’re looking for personalized assistance, reach out to us—we’re ready to help you succeed.
College admissions officers look for real, honest stories that show who the student is. They want to see a clear and interesting story, good writing, and personal growth. Essays that show hard work, curiosity, or a unique way of thinking stand out. Good structure, strong sentences, and answering the prompt well are also important.
Yes, but it’s usually not needed. Students change a lot between sophomore and senior year, so an early essay may not show who they are when applying. However, writing down ideas, keeping a journal, and practicing can help. The best time to start is the summer before senior year when students have a better idea of their story and goals.
Avoid details that are too personal, inappropriate, or negative. Do not include stories that are too graphic or make the reader uncomfortable. Avoid complaining about teachers, using overused phrases, or writing things that don’t show anything special about you. Focus on personal growth, hard work, and what makes you unique.
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Alex Mercer (Mass Literature and Linguistics, Masters)
Dr. Alex Mercer is a renowned author specializing in AI and academic writing, known for his insightful and informative blogs on EssayService.ai. With a passion for both technology and education, Dr. Mercer has established himself as a trusted voice in the field, providing valuable insights to students, educators, and technology enthusiasts alike.
Dr. Alex Mercer is a renowned author specializing in AI and academic writing, known for his insightful and informative blogs on EssayService.ai. With a passion for both technology and education, Dr. Mercer has established himself as a trusted voice in the field, providing valuable insights to students, educators, and technology enthusiasts alike.
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