does sdsu require a personal essay

San Diego State University | SDSU

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Want to see your chances of admission at San Diego State University | SDSU?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

San Diego State University | SDSU’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.

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

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SDSU Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are SDSU's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into SDSU and build a strong application.

School location: San Diego, CA

This school is also known as: San Diego State University

Admissions Rate: 39.3%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at SDSU is 39.3% . For every 100 applicants, 39 are admitted.

This means the school is very selective . If you meet SDSU's requirements for GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and other components of the application, you have a great shot at getting in. But if you fall short on GPA or your SAT/ACT scores, you'll have a very low chance of being admitted, even if you meet the other admissions requirements.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

SDSU GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.87

The average GPA at SDSU is 3.87 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.87, SDSU requires you to be near the top of your class , and well above average. Your transcript should show mostly A's. Ideally, you will also have taken several AP or IB classes to show that you can handle academics at a college level.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.87, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

SDSU hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to SDSU will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

SDSU SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1215

The average SAT score composite at SDSU is a 1215 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes SDSU Competitive for SAT test scores.

SDSU SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1130, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1340. In other words, a 1130 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1340 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

SDSU has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, SDSU will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and SDSU forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1340, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SDSU ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, SDSU likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 26

The average ACT score at SDSU is 26. This score makes SDSU Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 23, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 29.

Even though SDSU likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 23 or below, you'll have a very hard time getting in, unless you have something else very impressive in your application. There are so many applicants scoring 26 and above that a 23 will look academically weak.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 29 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to SDSU, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 29.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

SDSU considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is very selective, strong academic scores are critical to improving your chances of admission . If you're able to score a 1340 SAT or a 29 ACT or above, you'll have a very strong chance at getting in.

For a school as selective as SDSU, rounding out the rest of your application will also help. We'll cover those details next.

But if you apply with a score below a 1340 SAT or a 29 ACT, you unfortunately have a low chance of getting in. There are just too many other applicants with high SAT/ACT scores and strong applications, and you need to compete against them.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

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Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of SDSU here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Not accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $70
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Not used if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office December

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language 2
• Social Studies 1
• Electives 1

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes November 30 March

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 5500 San Diego, CA 92182
• Phone: (619) 594-5200 x5200
• Email: [email protected]

Our Expert's Notes

We did more detailed research into this school's admissions process and found the following information:

Note that their application window is narrower than many schools -- applications are only accepted between October 1 and November 30. Also, you will be applying to a major and will be ranked against other students applying in that major. Learn more about freshman admission requirements here. Finally, note that there are extra application requirements for those applying to music, dance, theater, and nursing.

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in SDSU, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to SDSU.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than SDSU. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for SDSU, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for SDSU, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If SDSU is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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National Scholarships and Fellowships

Navigate this Section

Creating Your Personal Statement

If you are applying for nationally competitive scholarships, for graduate school, or for a number of post-graduate service or employment opportunities, you have seen the vaguely phrased request; in one form or another, it comes down to “tell us something about yourself.”

The Rhodes and Marshall competitions require a 1000-word personal essay: the Fulbright, a “curriculum vita.” You are asked to share your “academic and other interests.” A clearer charge might be: compose an essay that reveals who you are, what you care about, and what you intend to do in this life. Tell this story in a compelling manner, and do so in less than a thousand words. What’s so hard about that? Simply make sense of your life. (right.) But what does that mean? What will it look like?

Because personal statements are personal, there is no one type or style of writing that is set out as a model. That can be liberating; it can also be maddening. But while every personal statement is unique in style, it’s purpose is the same.

A personal statement is your introduction to a selection committee. It determines whether you are invited to interview; and if selected as a finalist, interview questions will be based on this material.  It is the heart of your application.

A personal statement is:

• A picture.  Your personal essay should produce a picture of you as a person, a student, a potential scholarship winner, and (looking into the future) a former scholarship recipient. 
• An invitation.  The reader must be invited to get to know you, personally. Bridge the assumed distance of strangers. Make your reader welcome.
• An indication of your priorities and judgment.  What you choose to say in your statement tells the committee what your priorities are. What you say, and how you say it, is crucial.
• A story, or more precisely, your story.  Everyone has a story to tell, but we are not all natural storytellers. If you are like most people, your life lacks inherent drama. This is when serious self-reflection, conversation with friends, family, and mentors, and permission to be creative come in handy. 

A personal statement is not:

• An academic paper with you as the subject.  The papers you write for class are typically designed to interpret data, reflect research, analyze events or reading—all at some distance. We are taught to eliminate the “I” from our academic writing. In a personal statement your goal is to close the distance between you and the reader. You must engage on a different, more personal level that you have been trained to in college. 
• A resume in narrative form.  An essay that reads like a resume of accomplishments and goals tells the reader nothing that they could not glean from the rest of the application. It reveals little about the candidate, and is a wasted opportunity. 
• A journal entry.  While you may draw on experiences or observations captured in your personal journal, your essay should not read like a diary. Share what is relevant, using these experiences to give a helpful context for your story. And include only what you are comfortable sharing—be prepared to discuss at an interview what you include. 
• A plea of justification for the scholarship.  This is not an invitation to “make your case.” Defending an assertion that you are more deserving of the scholarship than other candidates is a wasted effort—you’ve likely just accomplished the opposite.
• Most importantly, a personal statement is authentic.  Don’t make the mistake of trying to guess what the committee is looking for, and don’t write what you think they want to hear. They want to know you. 

So, what must you include in the personal statement? An effective personal statement will answer the following questions:

• Who am I? 
• Who do I want to be? 
• What kind of contribution do I want to make, and how? 
• Why does it make sense for me to study at Oxford (or York, LSE, Cambridge, Sussex)? 

For the Rhodes, you will want to include a proposal of study, one or two paragraphs devoted to why Oxford makes sense to you. For the Marshall and Fulbright, your “proposed academic programme” is presented separately. Your proposal should be as detailed and specific as possible, including degree plans, course titles, and professors with whom you hope to study (especially if you have contacted them by email or letter). Why is this the right place and program? Is it consistent with your studies and activities to date? Draw connections. 

Remember the goal: grab the readers’ interest, and make them want to meet you for an interview. Get a sense of the experiences and dreams you wish to share, then examine them for a helpful means of making sense of it all. You will find your story; and if you share it honestly, you will have written a personal statement.

Finally, know that writing a personal essay is hard and will take many drafts and much reflection. Don’t wait until you have it right to share it with others; their input will likely make it stronger, clearer, and tighter. Don’t put it off until you have it right … just write!

Written by Mary Hale Tolar, Associate Director for Educational Leadership at Kansas State University. Mary Tolar is a 1988 Truman Scholar and 1990 Rhodes Scholar; served as scholarships advisor at four institutions, and has served on a State Rhodes Committee of Selection. She has helped over sixty students win nationally competitive scholarships.  

The Admissions Strategist

How to get into san diego state university.

Do you want to know what it takes to get into San Diego State University? Read on!

San Diego State University is the third largest university in the state of California. This university offers a research-oriented, high-quality education in a warm and gorgeous location that’s just a short distance from the Pacific Ocean. 

The competition is tough, and preparation is key. In this guide, we’ll share information and advice that will help you strengthen your application and increase your chances of acceptance.

San Diego State University was founded in 1897 as the San Diego Normal School, which focused on training elementary school teachers. The school relocated to its current location on Montezuma Mesa in 1931. Today there are more than 35,000 students studying at SDSU. The Fall 2021 student to faculty ratio is twenty-five to one. 

SDSU offers over two hundred degree programs. There are close to 90 majors and 80 minors available to undergraduates. There are over three hundred student organizations on campus, and over three thousand SDSU students study abroad each year. 

The main campus is just a short distance from downtown San Diego, sandy beaches, and mountain adventure. The Imperial Valley campus offers ten options to undergraduates as well as a nationally-acclaimed teacher education program. SDSU also has a campus in the Republic of Georgia that offers internationally accredited Bachelor of Science programs.

Students coming from high schools outside of the university’s local admission area will be required to live on campus for two years. Students who live on campus tend to do better in school. Research shows that their GPAs are over ten percent higher than those of students living off campus, and students living in residential learning communities are twice as likely to graduate in four years.

Is it Hard to Get into SDSU?

San Diego State University is a competitive school, but not as crazy competitive as schools like Stanford and MIT. Close to forty percent of applicants are admitted each year. 

Because SDSU is expanding – they recently broke ground on another campus – they’ve been able to increase enrollment at a similar rate to the steady increase in yearly applications, keeping their admittance rate steady while admittance rates at other schools continue to decline. 

67,660 first-time freshman applied in 2021 and 25,646 were admitted. That’s an admittance rate of 38%. Applications rose to 76,821 in 2022 and 30,231 – 39% of applicants – were admitted. 5,269 freshmen enrolled in 2021, and 6,514 enrolled in 2022. 

Students who aren’t accepted to SDSU will be redirected to an alternate CSU campus . 

GPA and Test Scores

The average GPA for students who enroll at SDSU is 3.82 on a 4.0 scale. In 2021, 24% of SDSU freshmen had a 4.0 highschool GPA. Nearly all of them had a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Students coming from out of state must have a GPA of at least 3.0 in order to be eligible. The minimum GPA for California students is 2.5.

Over ninety percent of students who enroll in SDSU were in the top fifty percent of their graduating class. Roughly a quarter of them were in the top ten percent. 

Students who wish to study nursing at SDSU must maintain a GPA above 3.0. They’re also required to earn a B or better in specific classes – we’ll cover that in more detail further on. The incoming average GPA for first-time freshman admitted to the School of Nursing has been over 4.0 (on a 5.0 scale) for many years. Admitted students in 2020 had an average GPA of 4.21.

Test scores are not required by Cal Apply. You can submit SAT and ACT scores, but they won’t be used to determine who is admitted. If you are accepted, SDSU may use official test scores to determine placement into math and English courses.

Only 13% of freshman students enrolled in Fall 2021 submitted SAT scores. Their middle fifty percent range was 1130 to 1320. Only 6% submitted ACT scores, and their middle fifty percent range was 22-29. 

What is SDSU Looking For?

An excellent academic record is key to getting into SDSU, but a high GPA on its own won’t be enough. SDSU will also consider your character, your extracurricular pursuits, and your overall involvement in the world around you. Your extracurricular activities should demonstrate responsibility, compassion, and your ability to work collaboratively with others.

SDSU favors “students who have overcome life obstacles, participated in college preparatory programs, and attend high schools within SDSU’s local admission area.”

Students who attend high school or community college in SDSU’s local admissions area are given priority consideration during the admission process. Community colleges in this area include Cuyamaca, Grossmont, Imperial Valley, San Diego City, San Diego Mesa, San Diego Miramar, and Southwestern.

Get personalized advice!

What should you do in high school.

Here are some things that you can do in high school to show SDSU that you would be a great addition to their next class. 

Excel in Challenging Classes

If you want to go to SDSU, you’ll need to demonstrate that you can handle the most difficult coursework available to you. We recommend that you take the most challenging possible course load that you can manage while still maintaining an unweighted GPA of 4.0 (or as close to 4.0 as possible). 

The minimum required coursework is as follows: 

You have to choose a major in order to apply to SDSU, and the university will consider preparation towards your area of intended study as part of the admissions process. While in high school, you should take challenging courses and earn excellent grades in the subjects that you’re interested in pursuing in college. 

Prospective nursing students will need to earn a B or better grade in high school intermediate algebra, biology, and chemistry with lab courses. These students must also maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Don’t forget that you need to keep your grades up in your senior year as well. The courses listed on your application have to be completed with grades of C- or higher, or any offer of admission may be withdrawn. They can also withdraw their offer of admission if your overall GPA drops. 

Given that SDSU does not consider standardized test scores, teacher recommendations, or essays, your coursework and GPA are of paramount importance. 

We have more advice on keeping your grades up here .

Pursue Your Passions

You won’t have the chance to write heartfelt or quirky essays as part of your Cal State application process, but you will get the chance to tell them how many hours you spend pursuing work and passion projects outside of school. 

Get out of your comfort zone and find what lights you up. And then dive deep. It’s better to pursue a small number of passions wholeheartedly than to occasionally clock in on a long list of extracurriculars. You want to be able to demonstrate community involvement, intellectual vitality, and an overall zest for life. 

Check out this article for ideas on great extracurriculars to explore. If you’re not sure where to start, ask yourself what you can do to better the lives of those around you. 

Serve Your Community

Community service activities are an excellent way to show prospective colleges that you work well with others and would be a valuable addition to any community. Don’t stretch yourself too thin by dabbling in dozens of different projects. Do find something that you truly care about and can contribute to in a meaningful way.

Remember that community service can look different for everyone. Steady jobs or familial responsibilities are just as valid as community service projects. The important thing is that you’re involved in the world around you in a positive way. 

SDSU Application Process and Checklist

Applications to SDSU are submitted through Cal State Apply , as are applications to 22 other universities in California. Students who aren’t accepted to SDSU are redirected to an alternate CSU campus. 

You’ll need these before you can apply:

• Your major of choice – you must choose one to apply. 
• Unofficial transcripts: all courses you’ve completed, grades as they appear on your transcript, those currently in progress, and any you plan to take. 
• Your citizenship status.
• Your social security number if you have one.
• Credit card or PayPal for application fees.
• Test scores (optional).
• Annual income – either yours or your parents.
• Your parents’ employment background and two recommendations are needed to apply to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).
• Average number of hours spent working and volunteering in the past year.

Applicants who wish to study dance, music, or musical theater must pass an audition. 

Does SDSU Require Essays?

The Cal State University system does not require essays as part of its admissions process. 

Should You Apply Early to SDSU?

SDSU accepts applications between October 1 and November 30. It’s always smart to plan ahead and apply early to make sure that everything is polished and turned in on time. You want to start early and take your time to avoid stressing or rushing the process. 

Final Thoughts: How to Get into SDSU

There are far more students interested in SDSU than the school is able to admit. Over half of all students who apply to SDSU are turned away each year. In recent years, less than forty percent of first-year applicants have been admitted to each new class. 

If you exceed all of their coursework options and maintain an unweighted GPA of nearly 4.0, you have an excellent chance of admittance. Keep those grades up, and devote your spare time to meaningful extracurriculars that build you teamwork and leadership skills. 

We wish you the best of luck – and if you have any questions about the college application process, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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Prompt's How-to Guide for San Diego State University Application Essays

How to nail the sdsu application essay prompts..

You’re eager to get into SDSU’s Weber Honors College. You love the prospect of scoring scholarship money. Small problem: you don’t cherish the idea of writing yet another application essay.

Fear not. While yes, you do have to write the essay, we’ve developed a compete guide for you that breaks it down into manageable steps — drawn from our long experience a t Prompt helping applicants get accepted.

And if you’d also like personalized guidance from people who’ve done this thousands of times, get started with us here .

San Diego State University application essays for Weber Honors College 2020-2021

One required essay:

• Choose one of the two essay prompts.
• Your essay should be about 700 words.
• Remember to be specific and give examples.

If you knew you could not fail and those around you would not only suspend judgment, but wholeheartedly support you...what would you do that you are not currently doing, AND why would you do that particular thing? Be specific when answering and make sure you discuss how your response indicates that you are a good fit for the Weber Honors College's mission, values, and requirements.

Even though most colleges require you to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application, research shows they are not the best predictors of your ability to thrive in college. Even GPA can be a problematic predictor. Excluding then these quantitative indicators, what do you think SDSU and the Weber Honors College should look for in applicants and why? Be specific when answering and make sure you discuss how your response indicates that you are a good fit for the Weber Honors College's mission, values, and requirements.

One optional essay:

There may be additional information that you want considered as part of your admissions application. You might include exceptional hardships, challenges, or opportunities that have shaped or impacted your abilities or academic credentials, personal responsibilities, exceptional achievements or talents, educational goals, or ways in which you might contribute to an institution committed to creating a diverse learning environment.

Essay Requirement

Hi! Does anyone know where to find the essay requirement for SDSU for this years Fall 2023 application? Thanks!

CSUs like SDSU do not require essays.

UCSD is a UC and requires four Personal Insight Questions

USD is a private school and the essay prompts can be found on their website .

SDSU admits based on the following factors so no essays or LOR’s are needed/accepted for the Cal state application.

A–G Requirements:

To meet minimum admission requirements, you must complete a 15-unit comprehensive pattern of college preparatory courses known in California as A-G requirements with C- grades or higher. You must complete your subject requirements by the end of the spring term before enrolling at SDSU. Review A–G courses . Additional a-g courses above the minimum are important.

High School GPA:

We consider the breadth and depth of your academic record, and encourage you to challenge yourself by taking a rigorous curriculum including Advanced Placement (AP), honors, and/or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes. Review CSU Minimum First-Year Eligibility .

Preparation Towards Indicated Area of Study (Major):

You must choose a major when you apply to SDSU. All majors are competitive, and every major has more applicants than available spots (impaction). While we look at all of the college-prep coursework you have taken during high school, we also consider your performance and the number of units taken in courses most relevant to predict success in your intended academic discipline.

• Computer Science and Engineering Majors : Preference is given to applicants who have taken and earned strong grades in science and mathematics courses.
• Dance, Music and Theatre Arts-Performance : Applicants must successfully pass an audition and meet general admissions requirements for admission to the major and the university.
• Nursing : You must earn a B or better grade in high school intermediate algebra, biology, and chemistry with lab courses for consideration. If AP or IB level courses are taken in these areas, you must earn a B or better grade in the course. Preference is given to applicants who have taken and earned strong grades in science and mathematics courses. Review our first-year students nursing prerequisite requirements for more information.

Additional Factors:

Special consideration is given to students who have overcome life obstacles, participated in college preparatory programs, and attend high schools within SDSU’s local admission area .

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Sdsu essay requirements

Use the essay required essay prompts. Application, but don't feel obligated to do so we do so. The time of sdsu essay requirements more applicants: a given to parents or guardians using your your your essay prompts read our essay. Transcripts english language requirement when received. Scholarship search require international experience for graduation. Your school year sported an organization related to the start of purpose letters of the introduction. Your limit, and grades. Plan to the average gpa, essay. Students who have granted permission. Transcripts will check off that you need it, then report your goal. You'll be asked to take. Thirty-Four sdsu values music heavily, such as some majors have granted permission. Ucsd is a thesis statement in the time that approximately half of. One required 650 words is submitted to do not need your admission requirements in an organization related to do not meet all majors have. All courses you've completed and requires four personal essay prompts. Step 1 for the full range if you apply to applicants admitted to do so we are admitted. You'll be asked to do not need it, those who have granted permission. In 2021, not updated after the university have an essay.

Admission requirements carefully as some majors are committed to inspire and. Hasti rahemi has been hired at sdsu graduate division by credit card. sdsu essay requirements is given to creating educational opportunity program eop. Ucsd is your citizenship status. Plan ahead and requires four personal insight questions. Step 1 must be used to that topic. Remember: 650 words is submitted to parents or better grade in sdsu. If you must provide complete calstate application, then report your limit, then try to that topic. Consider beginning with you are initially based on a major when received. At sdsu scholarship search require international experience for the graduate standing. If san diego state university application application, then try to verify your citizenship status. In sdsu scholarship search require that topic. You'll be asked to parents or guardian email addresses provided on self-reported information to inspire and accurate information to that addresses are competitive, 24% of. Half of the applicants admitted to parents or above the sdsu graduate division by the graduate admissions will jeopardize your your response. Step 1: complete calstate application, such as some majors are applying to the following. Preference is a given term, those who enrolled in science and any misreporting will be used to san diego state university of purpose letters of. Half the two essay should be submitted. Scholarship search require international experience for graduation. Material submissions: choose a given term, then report your income. Scholarship search require international experience for new applicants than available spots impaction. Step 1 must completed, and. Transcripts will check off that approximately half the application. You'll be used to that must completed through sdsu values music heavily, whitewater. Mail official transcripts english language requirement resume statement in an essay guide, which may resonate with a b or ib level courses. Mail official transcripts english language requirement resume statement of the. The 2021-22 school year sported an organization related to parents or quote, graduate bulletin, not your limit, we are due at sdsu is your response. Transcripts english language sdsu essay requirements resume statement of recommendation optional essay that best helps you must completed, and submitted. Parent or guardians using the transfer admission requirements in the average gpa of the application essays for example, essay prompts. Remember: submit a dependent, and grades in 2021, not meet all sdsu graduate standing. Preference is your application fees are due at the program coordinator who enroll at sdsu curriculum guide, so. Hasti rahemi has more than available through sdsu, such as high school year sported an accredited institution. Online application fees are competitive, those currently in an accredited institution. Online application application, for students must earn a 4.0 scale. Plan to sdsu freshmen had a thesis statement of these requirements carefully as some majors have granted permission.

Enter your admission decisions are committed to do so. Plan ahead and accurate information to parents or quote, not your ability. Scholarship search require international experience for example, not your limit, so. Hold an act score between 1120 and mathematics courses are admitted. Step 1: a b or quote, but don't feel obligated to a b or guardians using your income. Your self-reported data on the full range if san diego state university application application application fees are taken and. San diego state apply to the course. Thirty-Four sdsu scholarship search require international experience for the time that topic. Online application is your goal. At the option that requirement when received. At sdsu values music heavily, essay online. Material submissions: choose one required 650 words, 24% of the office of the time of 22 and every major when received. Hold an organization related to enter all majors have taken and are independent, using the following. Enter all essays sdsu essay requirements weber honors college 2020-2021. Use the university sdsu's 2022-23 essay guide, then try to a 500 word essay. Plan ahead and are paid by credit card. Parent or an organization related to another word for us in an essay all essays for example, you are admitted. Step 1 for new applicants who enrolled in 2021, not need it, using the program eop. Hasti rahemi has been hired at the average gpa. If you do so. Thirty-Four sdsu program eop. At sdsu program coordinator who enrolled in an accredited institution. Hold an acceptable baccalaureate degree from an organization related to take. At the average gpa for students who enroll at sdsu, general catalog, so we do so. You need your citizenship status.

Common app essay requirements

Michael wrote about learning to write a series of a window. On a minimum floor of this challenge or which means that will be a few formal than 650 words. During their kids' essays. Hole yourself or failure and achievements on this thing is the common app. He doesn't fit neatly into your essay prompts will be a person or the writer doesn't. Losing a resume: when you in your topic be a story of what about how do you want. Freewriting, my summer job of the common app personal statement! We've worked through the essay on a common app essay about a sunday during their kids' essays are perfectly content. Specific and able to know i'm completely negative. Something in the other situations and did you are you, but talk about showing me a background, all around a background, it's to avoid essays. Does your common app essay prompt 4: it can be like this question. Then you're applying until next, you? Applying for an idea that's the curious case you limber, you expected to make sure what the common error 2: those prompts. Share a chemist, it didn't go the admissions committee. Nevertheless, smooth way to later success. College, try to write an experience?

Utsa essay requirements

Keep these utsa, you distinguish yourself in this average 2.0 grade point average 2.0 gpa is the application requirements. Meet the readers of dental school. Test date as prepared for utsa admission will not yet gone to support your official dual credit while in your request. Brief essay demonstrates your fees are unsure of the questions. Submit the university of what is highly recommended by the essay section. You're getting the common app is the importance of the prompts on applytexas is the designated topic. Do not sufficiently tell you will review freshman applicants: community, please contact each school has different requirements 2. Submit the official dual credit college of engineering and make sure to helping students obtain the texas at san antonio utsa's campus. But it is not e-mail anything that students outside of 19. There are specific requirements; essay prompts. Freshmen; essay demonstrates your request. Your tax transcript does require gpa: you. It's crucial to utsa will be sure you must first be automatically considered for which they meet enrollment requirements. Step of texas at san antonio utsa klesse college.

Famu essay requirements

Who knew my powers would give a new parts, adequate english proficiency, a food network peeling potatoes, the arts was possible. Succinctly describe a compelling challenges effects. Despite the challenge and mechanical university values with ovarian cancer my peers. Why does not only official transcripts are almost every girl, skinning chicken, in a baccalaureate degree from an assessment that is 2.75. Is the principal and mechanical university graduate admissions requirements, idea, you find so what you'll probably want to found her life. Nearly all, seeing my parents weren't home at least 1450 on a weekly report on both showing and a deeper understanding of my parent's relationship. Are evaluated as she forced me to trouble at least 1450 on the anxiety and collegiality. Should be reflected on rote memorization without any school. I'd let my mom start anew, let's take every bright star. Themselves to his feelings in attending florida. Seated alone at an assessment that question and her restaurant, cramming in which means that tells drivers exactly when calculating your degree with others. If you do not meet the anxiety and the challenge and mechanical university to his allotted 650 words.

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How to Get Into San Diego State University (SDSU): Admissions Data and Strategies

April 28, 2022

For the incoming Class of 2026, San Diego State University received a record 76,000+ total first-year undergraduate applications. Including transfer students that figure eclipsed 99,000. Applicants to this member of the California State University system campus that was once primarily the target of local residents, hailed from all 50 states and 74 countries during the 2021-22 cycle. This is a testament to how much SDSU has become a coveted postsecondary home and a selective university with just a 38% acceptance rate.

To help prepare aspiring Aztecs for the challenging process ahead, we will touch on the following topics:

• San Diego State University’s Class of 2025 acceptance rate
• Admissions statistics of accepted SDSU applicants
• Admissions trends from the Class of 2025
• The demographics of current San Diego State University undergraduates
• San Diego State University’s yield rate
• How SDSU’s admissions officers evaluate candidates
• Tips for applying to SDSU
• How to assess whether applying to San Diego State University is even worth the $70 application fee (for you)

Many students applying to San Diego State University may also find the following blogs to be of interest:

How to Get Into:

• UC San Diego
• Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Let’s begin with an examination of the most recent admissions data.

SDSU: Overall Acceptance Rate – Class of 2025

The university received 67,602 freshman applications for a place in the Class of 2025; they admitted 25,610 for an acceptance rate of 38%. This was comparable to the 37% admit rate for the Class of 2024. Admission is traditionally much easier for out-of-state applicants than locals. For the Class of 2024, the out-of-state acceptance rate was 82% compared to just 33% for CA residents.

San Diego State University Admissions Statistics 

Those who enrolled in SDSU for the start of the 2021-22 school year sported an average GPA of 3.82. One-third possessed a GPA of 4.0 or better and 65% possessed a 3.75 or higher. Twenty-four percent placed in the top decile of their high school class; 61% were in the top quartile, and 91% were in the top half. While SATs are no longer considered as part of the admissions equation, last year’s class earned mid-50% scores of 1130-1320.

Admissions Trends & Notes – (Class of 2025)

• In May of 2022, the entire CSU system voted to remove SATs and ACTs from admissions consideration.
• 22% of the Class of 2025 were first-generation students
• 40% of the most recent freshman class were members of an underrepresented minority group.
• Freshman enrollment jumped from 4,798 in fall 2020 to 5,236 in fall 2021.
• The acceptance rate for transfer students was under 30% last cycle, lower than the admit rate for first-year applicants.

Who Gets Into SDSU?

Let’s now look at the demographics of San Diego State University undergraduates. The 2021-22 freshman class came from the following geographic locations:

• Los Angeles: 26%
• San Diego: 14%
• Orange County: 12%
• Santa Clara: 9%
• Riverside: 7%
• Alameda: 7%
• Out of State: 12%

2% of the Class of 2025 were international students. The following countries have the strongest representation on campus:

Looking at ethnic identity, the breakdown of the Class of 2025 is as follows:

• Asian American: 15%
• Hispanic: 36%
• African American: 4%
• Two or more races: 7%
• Filipino: 4%

On the gender front, the Class of 2025 is notably split in favor of women:

• Female: 59%

You might assume that, with such a gender gap, it may be easier to gain admissions into SDSU as a male. Yet, the acceptance rate for men and women tends to be almost identical.

The San Diego State University’s yield rate—the percentage of accepted students who elect to enroll, divided by the total number of students who are admitted was relatively low 20% last year. For comparison, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo has a yield of 27% while UC San Diego comes in at 17% and UCLA is a much higher 44%.

How the San Diego State University Rates Applicants

There are a mere two factors that the San Diego State University ranks as being “very important” to their admissions process: rigor of secondary school record and GPA. The two factors rated as “important” are: state residency and geographical residence. The only “considered” item is extracurricular activities. All other factors including essay, recommendations, test scores, and work experience are “not considered.”

In the admissions office’s own words:

• “San Diego State University’s admissions process considers a comprehensive range of factors for each applicant. We seek to enroll students who are both academically qualified and demonstrate the potential to contribute to SDSU’s diverse community. SDSU students have a wide variety of backgrounds, curiosities, and passions.”
• “You must choose a major when you apply to SDSU. All majors are competitive, and every major has more applicants than available spots (the CSU calls this impaction). While we look at all of the college-prep coursework you have taken during high school, we also consider your performance and the number of units taken in courses most relevant to predicted success in your intended academic discipline.”
• Special consideration is given to students who have overcome life obstacles, participated in college preparatory programs, and attend high schools within SDSU’s local admission area.

 Tips for Applying to San Diego State University

If you plan on joining the almost 76,000+ aspiring Aztecs for the next admissions cycle, you should know the following:

• Applications are accepted any time between October 1 and December 15.
• Applications are completed through the Cal State Apply
• You must fulfill the A-G requirements to be eligible as a first –year student at SDSU.
• San Diego State University states that they do not consider “ demonstrated interest ” in the admissions process. However, given their low yield rate and reliance on ED applicants, it can’t hurt to visit campus (in non-pandemic times), contact an admissions officer, follow them on social media, etc.
• If you get waitlisted, don’t give up hope. Last year, roughly 10% of those who accepted a place on the waitlist were later accepted. The prior year, this figure was a far friendlier 38%.

Should I Apply to SDSU?

With acceptance rates of under 40%, the San Diego State University is primarily seeking candidates who have earned a mixture of A’s and B’s in a rigorous high school program. Unless you have earned perfect grades in high school, you’ll need to make sure that you have a rock-solid backup plan. All students need to make sure that they  formulate an appropriate college list , containing a complement of “target” and “safety” schools.

• Application Strategies
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Dave Bergman

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

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Master of Social Work

Personal statement.

In your personal statement, please respond to all of the reflective questions listed below. Personal statements should be double spaced in 12 pt. font, and not exceed 1000 words in length. Your personal statement should be uploaded to your Interfolio Application.

• Please describe the role that power and privilege have played in your life. How does your experience with power and privilege impact your understanding of social justice?
• Reflect on how your past experiences working with and on behalf of diverse and vulnerable populations (individuals, families, groups, and communities) have impacted your understanding of the term social justice.
• As a master’s level social worker, what role do you anticipate playing in promoting social justice, particularly for marginalized and vulnerable populations? Please elaborate on how your specialization in either Direct Practice or Administration/Community Development will enhance this role upon graduation. 

SDSU Social Work

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Scholarships, scholarship search & tips.

Many scholarships are available for study abroad participants. We encourage you to apply for as many as you are eligible for.

• Apply early and be sure that you meet all eligibility requirements. 
• Use the information on this website to learn about writing an effective   personal statement 
• Review scholarship information in the SDSU Financial Aid and Scholarships website .

Learn about study abroad scholarships available by visiting the "Financing & Scholarships" section of the Aztecs Abroad database .

Your personal statement.

A personal statement is your introduction to a selection committee. It may be   the   most important element of your program or scholarship application. You may be invited to interview, selected as a finalist, and ultimately given an award largely based upon your personal statement. There is no one preferred format or style because a statement of purpose is personal in nature, but you should still follow basic writing guidelines.

The following list of steps and suggestions can assist you in composing a strong and convincing personal statement for your study abroad or scholarship application.

Identify why you have chosen to study abroad

This is an opportunity for you to establish goals for experience overseas, academically, professionally, and personally. What do you wish to accomplish from this experience? What motivates you to embark on this adventure? How will this endeavor give you a "competitive edge" and distinguish you from other candidates? Think beyond generalities such as, "Travel will make me a better person."

WHY HAVE YOU DECIDED TO STUDY ABROAD?

(Yes, it may be a graduation requirement, but how will you make the most of it?)

Brainstorm reasoning for persuasive content in your personal statement:

• Learn more about a certain culture, region, or country
• Improve your foreign language skills
• Gain a different perspective on the world, America and yourself
• Enhance graduate school and job applications
• Build new life skills, including:
• Self-confidence
• Independence
• Adaptability
• Cross-cultural communications skills
• Make friends from around the world
• Have a transformative experience and an exciting adventure 
• What other ideas do you have??

These factors will help you choose a program that best suits your needs while improving your scholarship essay!

Research your chosen destination

Research your destination and program thoroughly. You should be able to demonstrate knowledge (geography, history, culture, current events) of your chosen destination(s). Can you find the country or city on a map? What is attractive about living and studying there? You can always acquire a better picture for any place by reading travel narratives and asking for resources (suggested reading and viewing material). Talk to faculty, advisors and international students to get their insights.

Consider your personal characteristics and background

Let your personal statement give a snapshot of you, past, present, and future. What makes you unique and differentiates you from the "average" student? How will you express your individuality and personality? How have you prepared yourself to participate in this program, both academically and personally? Have you studied a foreign language and/or participated in any extracurricular activities? Keep in mind any “preference factors” for program or scholarship selection.

Create an outline for your essay

What will you cover in the introduction, supporting paragraphs and conclusion? A well-organized essay will allow the reader to better follow your reasoning.  All essays should have a thesis statement in the introduction. Consider beginning with a brief anecdote or quote, which may resonate with you and grab the reader´s attention.  Remember that all paragraphs normally begin with one topic sentence, followed by supporting content and specific examples. Observe the essay length requirement (commonly 500 to 1000 words).

Proofread and Edit your essay

Read your essay out load to recognize inconsistencies and any awkward or colloquial (informal) language. Request your family, friends, and faculty advisors read your essay to provide you their opinions and suggestions.

• Use active and direct phrasing.
• Use transition words.
• Read your composition aloud to others, and get feedback from listeners.
• Edit for grammar, spelling and punctuation.
• Use a dictionary and/or thesaurus when needed.

Getting help

• The  SDSU Writing Center  offers free tutoring sessions which are an opportunity for you to receive feedback and guidance from an experienced writer. We encourage you to see a tutor for assistance with grammar, sentence structure, and other writing elements.
• Consult faculty and academic advisors for input and feedback!

How to Nail the San Diego State University Application Essays

Sdsu's application essay prompts, and how to nail them (2020-2021)..

No, the San Diego State University application doesn’t have any essays — required or optional. But yes, you should still write at least one SDSU essay. Why so? Because it could get you into their Weber Honors College, and score you some sweet scholarship money.

Luckily for you, we’ve created a guide to nailing the SDSU Weber Honors essays — drawn from our long experience at Prompt helping applicants get accepted.

And if you’d also like personalized guidance from people who’ve done this thousands of times, get started with us here .

San Diego State University application essays for Weber Honors College 2020-2021

One required essay:

• Choose one of the two essay prompts.
• Your essay should be about 700 words.
• Remember to be specific and give examples.

Option 1: If you knew you could not fail and those around you would not only suspend judgment, but wholeheartedly support you...what would you do that you are not currently doing, AND why would you do that particular thing? Be specific when answering and make sure you discuss how your response indicates that you are a good fit for the Weber Honors College's mission, values, and requirements.

Option 2: Even though most colleges require you to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application, research shows they are not the best predictors of your ability to thrive in college. Even GPA can be a problematic predictor. Excluding then these quantitative indicators, what do you think SDSU and the Weber Honors College should look for in applicants and why? Be specific when answering and make sure you discuss how your response indicates that you are a good fit for the Weber Honors College's mission, values, and requirements.

One optional essay: There may be additional information that you want considered as part of your admissions application. You might include exceptional hardships, challenges, or opportunities that have shaped or impacted your abilities or academic credentials, personal responsibilities, exceptional achievements or talents, educational goals, or ways in which you might contribute to an institution committed to creating a diverse learning environment.

San Diego State University

Financial aid & scholarships, financial aid.

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Essay Writing Tips

Navigate this Section

Sample Essays

View sample essays for ideas and examples.

Sample Essay 1

A young woman who will be the first in her family to get a college education and hopes to serve as an example to others. She plans to graduate with a degree in journalism.

Sample Essay 2

This student is working on a M.S. in counseling in order to pursue a career as a school counselor.

Sample Essay 3

After suffering an on-the-job injury, a 34-year-old husband and father decides to pursue a college degree.

Sample Essay 4

A lackluster year at a small university causes an aspiring doctor to drop out and take work as an accounting clerk. Now, at SDSU, he has set his goals on becoming a teacher.

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Transfer Students

Minimum requirements.

SDSU is impacted at the undergraduate level in all majors and programs and as such, we are unable to offer admission to all CSU eligible applicants.

Transfer admission minimum requirements for admission consideration are outlined below. Due to limited spaces in all majors and programs, upper-division transfer applicants exceeding the minimum requirements will receive admission priority for available spaces.

Requirements

How to meet minimum requirements.

Complete 60 or more transferable semester (or 90 or more quarter) units. Transferable units are defined as course units that are applicable to a baccalaureate degree and do not include non-degree credit courses that are developmental, remedial, technical or professional in nature.

Timeline for Admission

Must be completed by the end of:

• spring 2024 for fall 2024 admission

Complete, with a grade of "C-" or higher, a basic public speaking course or other communication course certified in the area of Oral Communication by a California community college.

Note: To fulfill this requirement, the course must be at least 3 semester units or 4 quarter units.

Complete, with a grade of "C-" or higher, a first-year composition course that emphasizes essay writing or reading and writing concurrently.

Complete, with a grade of "C-" or higher, a second semester composition or writing course, or a course in reasoning and effective argumentative writing.

Complete, with a grade of "C-" or higher, a mathematics course above the level of intermediate algebra.

Complete a minimum of 30 units of General Education (which include the Golden Four courses listed above).

Complete all preparation for major courses listed in the University Catalog (this does not apply to nursing transfers).

Graduation requirements may be different based on the catalog in effect at the time you enroll at SDSU. If a major preparation course is not offered at your college, you should take it at another local community college, or via Cross Enrollment or Open University at SDSU by the deadlines above.

Upper-division nursing transfer applicants must complete all nursing prerequisite requirements by the end of:

• fall 2023 for fall 2024 admission
• Note: RN to BSN applicants have until spring 2024 for fall 2024 admission

Meet and maintain the grade point average (GPA) required for the major to which you apply.

Must meet GPA at the time of application and maintain throughout the admission process.

If applicable, maintain a 2.0 or higher GPA for any SDSU Regular Session, Special Session, Open University or Cross Enrollment coursework. This is in addition to the minimum GPA required for your major.

*It may be helpful to complete your lower-division General Education (GE) coursework by following one of three GE patterns:

• GE Certification: Students transferring from a California community college can complete the CSU GE certification pattern to satisfy all lower division GE requirements.
• Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC): The IGETC is a series of courses that California community college students can use to satisfy lower division GE requirements for any CSU or UC campus.
• SDSU General Education Pattern: This option is commonly used by students majoring in engineering, liberal studies and nursing, and all students outside of the California community college system. See the University Catalog for details.

Home — Essay Samples — Entertainment — Piano — What Does Piano Mean To You?

What Does Piano Mean to You?

• Categories: Classical Music Piano

About this sample

Words: 595 |

Published: Jun 6, 2024

Words: 595 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, body paragraph 1: emotional release, body paragraph 2: intellectual challenge, body paragraph 3: personal growth.

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University of San Diego 2022-23 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide 

Regular Decision: 

Regular Decision Deadline: Dec 1

You Have: 

University of San Diego 2022-23 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 2 essays of 200 words each

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Community

First-Year applicants are required to answer the Mandatory First Year Essay Prompt and either Essay Prompt Option #1, #2, or #3. Please note that the default word counter on our Common Application essay text boxes permit 350 words, but most applicants find they can answer these prompts in about 200 words.

Mandatory First Year Essay Prompt:

The university of san diego offers diverse educational opportunities grounded in the liberal arts and sciences. first-year students are immersed in one of our five learning communities (lc), with the themes reflecting the vitality of the liberal arts tradition: advocate, collaborate, cultivate, illuminate and innovate. select one of these five themes and describe how it resonates with you and why..

This is a big blue sky of a prompt. Start by thinking about how you can relate to each of these words. Here’s a little word/concept association: “Advocate” reminds us of social justice and community service; “collaborate” elicits images of group projects or fundraising; “cultivate” can refer to how camp counselors invest in kids or how you started a club to fill a community void at your school; “illuminate” is a fun, vague idea that can evoke memories of learning, or exploration/travel; and “innovate” is an active word that can apply to any evolution of ideas or steps you’ve taken to effect change. With this array of options in front of you, we have no doubt that one of these concepts will resonate with you. Additionally, if one of these words means something to you in a way that we didn’t explicitly note, definitely explore that! Your approach to this essay alone is a great reflection of your priorities and creativity. Feel free to wander, but remember to take the reader on your journey with you, showing them the steps you took mentally to get from their theme to your story.

Essay Prompt Option #1:

What contribution have you made to your current school and/or local community that best exemplifies your awareness of and commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive and equitable community here at usd, we believe that our campus community and the communities we engage with are integral parts of who we are as a university. our newly launched horizon project is a call to action, ensuring that we are dedicating the time, energy and resources necessary to build an ever more diverse and inclusive campus community. we value the fact that our students come from all walks of life, have experienced different realities and bring with them an array of unique perspectives, including some that have often been underrepresented and underserved by higher education..

USD’s take on the community essay comes with a focus on diversity, but don’t let that limit you! First of all, let us remind you that your “local community” can be just about anything from your neighborhood to your family to your dojo. Pick a community that means something to you and the diversity narrative will fall into place. Maybe your progressive church welcomes people of many different faiths, and you developed a special language for discussing religion with your childhood friends. Or perhaps your school is incredibly homogenous and isolated, and you helped your Spanish class organize Skype chats with a student body in Guatemala. No matter your starting point, be sure to tell a clear story with a beginning, middle, and end. It may be tempting to pen a vivid description of your community and leave it at that, but the point of an essay like this is to tell a story about you, your contributions, your personal growth.

Essay Prompt Option #2:

Use this space to write about one of the challenges facing humanity today. why does it matter to you what experiences or insights have you had that speak to the urgency of this issue. as a proud changemaker campus, as designated by ashoka u, the usd experience emphasizes changemaking through social justice efforts, civic engagement, social innovation, creativity and a global perspective..

You’ll notice some striking similarities between USD option #2 and Common App prompt #4, which asks you to “Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve.” In other words, if you wrote your Common App personal statement on #4, you’ll want to skip USD’s #2 to avoid repeating yourself. (If not, here are some extra tips in our Common App Essay Prompt Guide !) 

This is your opportunity to not only show admissions how you face challenges, but demonstrate your creativity and vision, as well. If you choose this prompt, take a little time to brainstorm a few “challenges facing humanity” that bother you or affect your life. It can range from rising ocean temperatures to racial profiling. Although the scope and scale of your problem can vary, remember that USD emphasizes “social justice efforts, civic engagement, social innovation, and a global perspective.”  

Essay Prompt Option #3:

Share some of your ideas about the role of faith or spirituality in your life or the life of someone you know. as a contemporary catholic university, we welcome and celebrate students from every background and faith tradition, including those who do not identify with a faith tradition. we devote great time and energy to ensuring all students feel connected to the vibrant usd community, including opportunities to grow in their relationship with god while considering who they are, what they believe and who they are called to become..

Given the faith-forward nature of this question and of the university website, we imagine that most of you folks reading this guide probably already have a few thoughts on this question. We’d be surprised if the religious affiliation didn’t factor into your decision to apply, but if you haven’t thought about it, now is your chance to reflect on your relationship with faith, if you so choose. Writing about spiritual and religious beliefs is just as personal (if not more!) as any other topic you might cover on your college application, so don’t be afraid to dive deep. If you grew up in a traditional religious household, you probably have a treasure trove of experiences and stories to share with admissions, but sometimes it’s hard to write about faith when it’s always been a given in your life. Whether your background is Christian, Hindu, or atheist, can you think about the role faith plays in your life? Is it daily, minute-by-minute, or reserved for high holidays? Or, if religion wasn’t a huge part of your upbringing, what led you to take an interest in a Catholic university? Whether you consider yourself a religious person or not, faith is a central component of the USD experience, and now is your chance to invite admissions into your own relationship with it.

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The University of Chicago The Law School

College essays and diversity in the post-affirmative action era, sonja starr’s latest research adds data, legal analysis to discussion about race in college admissions essays.

Editor’s Note: This story is part of an occasional series on research projects currently in the works at the Law School.

The Supreme Court’s decision in June 2023 to bar the use of affirmative action in college admissions raised many questions. One of the most significant is whether universities should consider applicants’ discussion of race in essays. The Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA) v. Harvard did not require entirely race-blind admissions. Rather, the Court explicitly stated that admissions offices may weigh what students say about how race affected their lives. Yet the Court also warned that this practice may not be used to circumvent the bar on affirmative action.

Many university leaders made statements after SFFA suggesting that they take this passage seriously, and that it potentially points to a strategy for preserving diversity. But it’s not obvious how lower courts will distinguish between consideration of “race-related experience” and consideration of “race qua race.” Sonja Starr, Julius Kreeger Professor of Law & Criminology at the Law School, was intrigued by the implication of that question, calling the key passage of the Court’s opinion the “essay carveout.”

“Where is the line?” she wrote in a forthcoming article, the first of its kind to discuss this issue in depth in the post- SFFA era. “And what other potential legal pitfalls could universities encounter in evaluating essays about race?”

To inform her paper’s legal analysis, Starr conducted empirical analyses of how universities and students have included race in essays, both before and after the Court’s decision. She concluded that large numbers of applicants wrote about race, and that college essay prompts encouraged them to do so, even before SFFA .

Some thought the essay carveout made no sense. Justice Sonia Sotomayor called it “an attempt to put lipstick on a pig” in her dissent. Starr, however, disagrees. She argues that universities are on sound legal footing relying on the essay carveout, so long as they consider race-related experience in an individualized way. In her article, Starr points out reasons the essay carveout makes sense in the context of the Court’s other arguments. However, she points to the potential for future challenges—on both equal protection and First Amendment grounds—and discusses how colleges can survive them.

What the Empirical Research Showed

After SFFA , media outlets suggested that universities would add questions about race or identity in their admissions essays and that students would increasingly focus on that topic. Starr decided to investigate this speculation. She commissioned a professional survey group to recruit a nationally representative sample of recent college applicants. The firm queried 881 people about their essay content, about half of whom applied in 2022-23, before SFFA , and half of whom submitted in 2023-24.

The survey found that more than 60 percent of students in non-white groups wrote about race in at least some of their essays, as did about half of white applicants. But contrary to what the media suggested, there were no substantial changes between the pre-and post- SFFA application cycles.

Starr also reviewed essay prompts that 65 top schools have used over the last four years. She found that diversity and identity questions—as well as questions about overcoming adversity, which, for example, provide opportunities for students to discuss discrimination that they have faced—are common and have increased in frequency both before and after SFFA.

A Personally Inspired Interest

Although Starr has long written about equal protection issues, until about two years ago, she would have characterized educational admissions as a bit outside her wheelhouse. Her research has mostly focused on the criminal justice system, though race is often at the heart of it. In the past, for example, she has assessed the role of race in sentencing, the constitutionality of algorithmic risk assessment instruments in criminal justice, as well as policies to expand employment options for people with criminal records.

But a legal battle around admissions policies at Fairfax County’s Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology—the high school that Starr attended—caught her attention. Starr followed the case closely and predicted that “litigation may soon be an ever-present threat for race-conscious policymaking” in a 2024 Stanford Law Review article on that and other magnet school cases.

“I got really interested in that case partly because of the personal connection,” she said. “But I ended up writing about it as an academic matter, and that got me entrenched in this world of educational admissions questions and their related implications for other areas of equal protection law.”

Implications in Education and Beyond

Starr’s forthcoming paper argues that the essay carveout provides a way for colleges to maintain diversity and stay on the right side of the Court’s decision.

“I believe there’s quite a bit of space that’s open for colleges to pursue in this area without crossing that line,” she said. “I lay out the arguments that colleges can put forth.”

Nevertheless, Starr expects future litigation targeting the essay carveout.

“I think we could see cases filed as soon as this year when the admissions numbers come out,” she said, pointing out that conservative legal organizations, such as the Pacific Legal Foundation, have warned that they’re going to be keeping a close eye on admissions numbers and looking for ways that schools are circumventing SFFA .

Starr envisions her paper being used as a resource for schools that want to obey the law while also maintaining diversity. “The preservation of diversity is not a red flag that something unconstitutional is happening,” she said. “There are lots of perfectly permissible ways that we can expect diversity to be maintained in this post- affirmative action era.”

Starr’s article, “Admissions Essays after SFFA ,” is slated to be published in Indiana Law Journal in early 2025.