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33 Colleges Without Supplemental Essays

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At many top schools, essays form a critical part of the college admissions process. Overwhelmingly, students find writing essays to be the most stressful part of the application process. So, when applying to multiple schools, many applicants look for colleges without supplemental essays. Colleges that don’t require essays allow students to focus on other aspects of their application like extracurriculars, test scores, or recommendation letters. 

However, finding colleges that don’t require supplemental essays can be tedious. That’s why we’ve created a list of 33 colleges without supplemental essays to make the search easier.

Contrary to what you may have heard, you can find college application requirements without supplemental essays. Moreover, a lack of supplemental essay requirements doesn’t mean a university isn’t good.  

This guide will help you find colleges without supplemental essays that meet your needs. In addition to discussing colleges that don’t require essays, we’ll also talk about other college application requirements. By the end of this article, you’ll be better prepared for the college application process. 

What is a supplemental essay?

Before you start searching for colleges that don’t require supplemental essays, it’s important to understand what they actually are. Supplemental essays are extra essays that each school requires; some schools require only one, while others require several. They cover a range of prompts from the “why school” essay to the cultural diversity essay and more. Usually, supplemental essays are rather short, hovering in the 50-250-word limit range. They serve as an opportunity to showcase an applicant’s strengths, moments of personal growth, and personality. 

It’s important to note that supplemental essays are different from the personal statement on the Common Application . The Common App essay prompts allow you to submit one personal statement to every college where you apply. In other words, you’ll almost certainly write this personal statement plus supplemental essays for each college on your list . You can also look up each school’s supplemental writing requirements on the Common App site. 

There aren’t many colleges that don’t require essays at all. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t any colleges that don’t require supplemental essays. With that said, most American universities have some essay requirements, even if they don’t ask for writing supplements.

Supplemental essays vs. Personal Statement

colleges without supplemental essays

Often, top colleges without supplemental essays will require students to write a personal statement . Recall that supplemental essays vary in length and number of essays to complete depending on the school. In contrast, the personal statement is one essay that most schools have as a part of their college application requirements. However, both supplemental essays and the personal statement are important when it comes to creating an authentic application narrative . 

The personal statement is a part of the Common Application. There are seven prompts to choose from, one of which is open, meaning you can write anything you’d like. The personal statement is longer than most supplemental essays at 650 words. While you’ll just write on one of these prompts, the others touch on common college essay topics. Don’t hesitate to brainstorm for a few of the Common App prompts, not just one.

Supplemental essays are usually shorter than the personal statement. School requirements will vary. While there are colleges without supplemental essays at all, others may have as many as six!

How many supplemental essays do college require?

While there are competitive colleges without supplemental essays, the majority of universities require at least one supplemental essay. However, the number of required supplemental essays will vary greatly. 

For example, Northeastern University doesn’t have a writing supplement requirement on the Northeastern application. However, that doesn’t necessarily make the Northeastern application easier than other universities. Since it’s a top school, applicants will still need to do everything possible to make their Northeastern application stand out. 

Unlike the Northeastern application, the University of Chicago has one required “why school” essay and various supplemental essay prompts to choose from. In total, students applying to UChicago will write two supplemental essays. 

When it comes to the number of supplemental essays a school requires, there is no single answer. All schools will be different, so be sure to check each school’s individual application requirements on their admissions sites. 

What kind of colleges require essays?

Generally, it is rare to find colleges that don’t require essays at all. While there are some colleges without supplemental essays, most still require students to submit the personal statement. Therefore, most colleges in the U.S. require essays in some form. Even if you’re applying through a different platform like UC Apply or the Coalition Application , you’ll have to write.

A better question might be: why do colleges require essays? The majority of universities’ admissions teams use a holistic evaluation process. That means that each of the college application requirements receives equal consideration. Your supplemental essay is an opportunity to share more about yourself with admissions. Successful college essay ideas will center on stories that show personal growth and self-reflection. 

What are college application requirements?

colleges without supplemental essays

If you’re looking for colleges without supplemental essays, then you’ll need to sift through each school’s requirements. Simply put, college application requirements are all the materials that applicants need for a complete application. 

Here are some of the most common application requirements: 

  • Basic biographical and demographic information
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Personal statement
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts
  • Counselor and/or Teacher letter(s) of recommendation

In the application, students will be able to add their essays. Keep in mind that each school’s college application requirements vary, so you should confirm specifics on their websites. 

Do all colleges require supplemental essays?

Luckily for those who dread essay writing, there are colleges without supplemental essays. Soon, we’re going to provide you with a comprehensive list of well-known colleges that don’t require supplemental essays. 

However, keep in mind that most schools do require students to complete the personal statement. So, for those who are hoping to find colleges that don’t require essays of any kind, it will be challenging. Nevertheless, students who have an extreme aversion to essay writing will find some top colleges without supplemental essays. 

Why apply to colleges that don’t require essays?

There are a few reasons that students want to apply to colleges without supplemental essays. Some students may feel like the essays are too stressful. And while there are ways to manage that stress and write compelling essays, some students may just prefer not to. 

However, probably the number one reason that students are intrigued by colleges without supplemental essays is time. Thinking of college essay ideas and writing essays is time-consuming. When you consider that some students apply to as many as 15 schools, it can feel overwhelming. Even adding just a few colleges that don’t require essays to your college list will lighten the burden. 

Additionally, there are many competitive colleges without supplemental essays. Just remember: if you apply to colleges without supplemental essays, make the rest of your application as competitive as possible. It certainly isn’t an excuse to slack on your application narrative. In fact, with colleges that don’t require essays, you must pay extra attention to your demonstration of academic achievements and extracurricular involvement. 

As stated above, colleges without supplemental essays usually still require a personal statement. However, this essay can be used for multiple schools. That is to say, once it’s written, you’re set for all of your applications to colleges without supplemental essays. 

33 Best Colleges without Supplemental Essays

Finally, it’s the moment you’ve been waiting for. Let’s check out some colleges without supplemental essays. 

Top 33 Colleges without Essays

1. colby college.

public universities without supplemental essays

This small liberal arts school in Waterville, Maine, is the first to make our list. As the 12 th oldest liberal arts school in the US, Colby College has ample experience providing students with an intimate learning environment. If you’re interested in a liberal arts education from a small Northeastern University, then check out Colby’s application requirements .  

2. Grinnell College

colleges without supplemental essays

Students who attend Grinnell are encouraged to “pursue passions with purpose.” While it may seem surprising that such a school numbers among colleges that don’t require essays, take advantage of it and apply ! Grinnell College is consistently a high-ranking liberal arts school. Here, students are encouraged to create a course of study that best supports their intellectual freedom.

3. Middlebury College

colleges without supplemental essays

Another of the many liberal arts colleges without supplemental essays on our list is Middlebury College. Located in Vermont’s Champlain Valley, the natural beauty will inspire your learning as a natural laboratory is just outside. Its acceptance rate is 13%, so you’ll need an impeccable application in the absence of supplemental essays. 

4. Colgate University

colleges without supplemental essays

Located in New York state, Colgate University provides its students with a high quality liberal arts education. Like all others on our list, the Colgate application doesn’t include supplemental essays. There are 56 majors for students to choose from. Colgate values a curious mind, so be sure to show your curiosity in your Colgate application. Check out what you need to complete your Colgate application. 

5. Temple University

colleges without supplemental essays

This is the first public research university on our list of colleges without supplemental essays. Temple University has 17 schools and colleges in which to study, but an emphasis is placed on experiential learning. Given Temple’s location in the heart of North Philadelphia, students will have all the opportunities that the city provides. 

6. Oberlin College

colleges without supplemental essays

The one-of-a-kind education provided by Oberlin College allows students to explore both academics and the arts. Indeed, the Oberlin College ranking across metrics speaks for itself: the Oberlin College ranking in national liberal arts colleges is #39 . And, perhaps unsurprisingly, the Oberlin College ranking in Most Innovative Schools is #16 . Of course, the Oberlin College ranking isn’t everything. But, the Oberlin College ranking does speak to the school’s quality, unique liberal arts education. For Oberlin College (not the conservatory) no supplemental essay is needed. 

7. Case Western Reserve University

colleges without supplemental essays

There are hundreds of programs at Case Western Reserve for students to pursue. However, overall, the student population is committed to making a difference, with education a stepping stone to an impactful career. In addition to being one of our colleges without supplemental essays, Case Western Reserve is also test-optional through fall 2024. 

8. Bates College

colleges without supplemental essays

The Bates way is all about “aligning who you are with what you do.” Students will be a part of a community with values such as social responsibility and diversity and inclusion. Check out the requirements for what it takes to be a part of this unique campus. Keep in mind that the Bates College acceptance rate is quite competitive. In fact, the Bates College acceptance rate is considered most selective at 17% . So, although Bates is among the colleges that don’t require essays, the Bates College acceptance rate means intense competition for admittance. 

9. Northeastern University

colleges without supplemental essays

This well-known university in Boston , Massachusetts, is among the most competitive colleges without supplemental essays with an 18% acceptance rate. Experiential learning and research are among the core parts of a Northeastern University education. If you’re interested in innovation and impact, then see what you need to apply .

10. Hampshire College

colleges without supplemental essays

It may be unsurprising that Hampshire College, the self-proclaimed “original disruptors of higher education,” is among the colleges that don’t require essays. Hampshire believes that their radical education experience leads to greater impact. This is a community that values experimentation, discovery, and investigation in a non-traditional manner. If that sounds up your alley, take a look at their application requirements. 

11. DePaul University

colleges without supplemental essays

This large private university in Chicago, Illinois, is next on our list of colleges without supplemental essays. Faculty provide high-quality teaching in order to give their students the best educational experience. DePaul aims to provide an experience that combines “mind, place, people, and heart.”

12. Drexel University

colleges without supplemental essays

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University is arguably one of the best colleges without supplemental essays. It’s nationally recognized for its co-op experience. This learning model allows all students to have ample hands-on experience in their field of interest before even graduating. Drexel admissions may not seem super competitive with an acceptance rate of 83% . However, that doesn’t mean you should slack on the application. Impressing Drexel admissions could lead to scholarships, which are also an extremely important part of the college application process. 

13. Kenyon College

colleges without supplemental essays

This college may not be a household name, but they’ve played a huge part in the model of faculty advising nationwide. In fact, according to Kenyon College , they invented it. So you can imagine the quality attention the learning experience that students will receive here. 

14. Dillard University

colleges without supplemental essays

Louisiana’s first private liberal arts HBCU makes our list of colleges without supplemental essays. The undergraduate population is around 1,200, making it a small school. At Dillard, students can expect personalized attention and a tight-knit campus community. After applying and being accepted, students will have 22 majors to choose from. 

15. Skidmore College

colleges without supplemental essays

Creative thinking is at the heart of Skidmore’s education model. Located in Saratoga Springs, New York, this private university offers students an excellent education in a bucolic college town . At Skidmore College , students are encouraged to explore a variety of educational interests as all majors are interdisciplinary.

16. Ohio State University

colleges without supplemental essays

Located in Columbus, Ohio—the fastest-growing metropolitan in the Midwest — Ohio State University places an emphasis on improving local and global communities. In fact, they have contribution efforts in every county in Ohio. And, with six campuses throughout the state, students can choose which location will best serve them. 

17. Louisiana State University

colleges without supplemental essays

As a leading research university in Baton Rouge, LSU is among the best colleges without supplemental essays. No matter their major, every student is able to participate in research opportunities. LSU ’s emphasis on research is a crux of the community as it comes from a drive to improve the world. 

18. University of Alabama

colleges without supplemental essays

With over 100 areas of study in 8 schools and colleges, the University of Alabama provides students with ample options. At the University of Alabama, research is highly valued, but students are ultimately encouraged to pursue their passions. Check out the freshman requirements to learn more about applying. 

19. University of Cincinnati

colleges without supplemental essays

Another large public research university makes our list of colleges without supplemental essays. UC has excellent co-op and internship programs from which students can gain practical professional experience while studying. University of Cincinnati students will gain an excellent education and hands-on experience.

20. Clemson University

colleges without supplemental essays

Clemson admissions prides itself on the university’s tireless work ethic. Through this, they encourage their students to “change lives, change perceptions, and…to change the world.” Students willing to work hard to achieve their future goals should check out the application requirements . Clemson admissions falls in the middle when it comes to selectivity. The Clemson admissions rate is 49% . Logically, we can see from the Clemson admissions rate that nearly half the students that apply will gain admittance. 

21. University of Pittsburgh

colleges without supplemental essays

Located in the heart of the city, the University of Pittsburgh is among the top colleges without supplemental essays. This large public university focuses on innovation as a path to positive change. With a prime location, students are encouraged to take advantage of all that the university and city have to offer.  

22. Wesleyan University

colleges without supplemental essays

Forming students to be “intellectually agile” is a huge part of the Wesleyan curriculum. With 45 majors to choose from, students are encouraged to take advantage of the large range of available courses. Additionally, there are over 5,000 internships opportunities available starting from your first year on campus. 

23. Miami University

colleges without supplemental essays

You may have seen this school ranking in the top 50 public universities in the US. There’s certainly no doubt that Miami University in Ohio is one of the best colleges without supplemental essays. With many dynamic undergraduate programs available, students will be able to pursue a wealth of careers in their chosen fields. An active student body helps in forming a strong campus community in a location brimming with natural beauty. 

24. University of Connecticut

colleges without supplemental essays

As a large university with a rural location, the UConn campus community is like a small town of its own. Students can enjoy a wide range of study options, ample student organizations and clubs, and renowned leaders as faculty members. Learn more about the application requirements. 

25. University of Delaware

colleges without supplemental essays

The beautiful campus and experienced faculty of the University of Delaware provide for about 18,000 students. Through research, internships, and study abroad opportunities, students are encouraged to find their authentic way of changing the world. 

26. Florida State University

colleges without supplemental essays

FSU is one of the best value colleges without supplemental essays. Students here are intellectually curious, academically driven, and socially conscious. The FSU experience is centered around providing students with the tools to achieve their goals. 

27. University of Georgia

colleges without supplemental essays

Even though this is a large university, students are seen as “the individual they are.” The University of Georgia is committed to accessibility and inclusion. Additionally, 92% of the university’s graduates are employed or continuing their studies within six months of graduation. 

28. University of Houston

colleges without supplemental essays

As the third largest university in Texas , the University of Houston is one of our top colleges without supplemental essays. As a diverse campus community, the university aims to change lives and communities for the better. It emphasizes discovery and conversation as a foundation for students’ development.

29. Indiana University – Bloomington

colleges without supplemental essays

The possibilities are endless when you study at Indiana University Bloomington . Students will gain hands-on experience in their field either in the lab or on the ground. Furthermore, students have the opportunity to learn from faculty who are renowned in their discipline. 

30. University of Kansas

colleges without supplemental essays

There is certainly no lack of options when studying at the University of Kansas . There are over 400 degree and certificate programs to choose from spread out over 14 schools. Innovation, research, and the pursuit of knowledge are pillars of the UK educational experience. 

31. University of Kentucky

colleges without supplemental essays

Another UK makes our list of colleges that don’t require supplemental essays. The University of Kentucky offers over 200 degree programs in 16 schools. One of the university’s main values is finding ways to advance Kentucky—from education, to health, economy, and culture— to ensure its progress. 

32. University of Massachusetts Amherst

colleges without supplemental essays

Located in an ideal college town, UMass Amherst is the largest public research university in New England. The school offers over 110 majors on campus. In addition, students are encouraged to be curious explorers through study abroad opportunities. 

33. University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

colleges without supplemental essays

This large university with a city campus encourages students to discover the unknown. Whether it’s through internships or research opportunities, students are challenged to pursue their interests and push their academic limits. Learn more about the application requirements to get started.

As you review this list, please note that college essay requirements are subject to change. With this in mind, make sure to visit each school’s admissions website to confirm all supplemental essay requirements.

It may seem alluring to apply only to these colleges that don’t require essays. However, keep in mind that these institutions place more importance on GPA and extracurriculars. So, when considering applying to schools without supplemental essays, think about these factors. Will your application narrative be impactful to admissions teams without additional essays? Will your personality and values shine through? 

What is the best school that doesn’t require supplemental essays?

colleges without supplemental essays

Looking at the acceptance rates of the colleges that don’t require essays, we can determine which schools are the most selective. In this case, Colby College ( 9% ), Grinnell College ( 11% ), and Middlebury College ( 13% ) have some of the most selective acceptance rates. However, the Bates College acceptance rate also makes it quite selective. In fact, the Bates College acceptance rate is similar to that of Northeastern University. 

The best colleges without supplemental essays will vary depending on what you’re looking for. So, how can you determine your top colleges without supplemental essays? Well, when making your college list you should consider factors such as majors, location, size, and campus culture. This will help you focus your college search on a few key criteria.

Firstly, make a list of what you want in your university. For example, do you want to go to school in a large city? Are internship or co-op programs important to you? Is your major available, and are you intrigued by its curriculum? Ideally, you want to be excited imagining yourself on a college’s campus. As you think about your college list priorities, you’ll be better able to identify which university is best for you. In fact, you may have already started by determining you want to look at colleges that don’t require essays!

College Application Requirements: Beyond Essays

Coming up with college essay ideas might be one of the biggest stressors in the college application process. And yet, there is certainly much more to completing an application than just essays. Colleges that don’t require essays still have other requirements that applicants will need to send by the school’s application deadlines . 

For example, let’s look at Colby admissions, which features on our list of colleges that don’t require essays. The Colby admissions site states the application requirements are the completed application, academic records, and financial aid application. Non-native English speakers may also be required to submit a language proficiency certification.

Additionally, there are optional materials you can add to enhance your application, which vary from school to school. Colby accepts standardized test scores , additional recommendation letters, an arts supplement, and an “elevator pitch” video.

Of course, these are just application requirements outlined by Colby admissions. Drexel admissions, Clemson admissions, and any other college admissions office will have other—often similar—application requirements. When comparing colleges to add to your college list, these requirements will likely be an important factor. 

Students can usually count on the following materials being required during the application process: 

  • Completed application
  • Academic records
  • Teacher/counselor letters of recommendation
  • Language proficiency exam (where applicable)

Many schools are continuing test-optional policies first instated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, some do require standardized testing scores as well. Always check the admissions site for the application requirements and deadlines. For example, Colby and Drexel admissions have slight differences in their requirements, even though they’re both colleges that don’t require essays. Always confirm requirements on admissions websites!

How to make your college application stand out!

colleges without supplemental essays

Even when applying to colleges that don’t require essays, you still need to carefully craft a compelling application narrative. Creating a cohesive application narrative or personal brand during the college application process can be tricky. Ideally, your application should tell the story of who you are and what drives you, both academically and personally. You’ll show this through your grades, courses, achievements, and extracurricular activities . 

Regardless of other college essay ideas you need, you will need to write the Common App personal statement. This is the only significant writing the admissions teams will see from applicants at colleges that don’t require essays. In light of that, it needs to be an excellent example of your writing skills while also demonstrating your personality. 

The Common App provides students with a few college essay topics to choose from. In order to generate the best college essay ideas, choose to write on college essay topics that genuinely excite you. While brainstorming , make a list of college essay ideas from the given college essay topics. Think about anecdotes, meaningful experiences, and personal growth that pertain to the college essay topics. Successful college essay ideas lead to authentic essays, which is the key in standing out to admissions. 

Essay Guides and Essay Resources

As we’ve mentioned, even when applying to colleges that don’t require essays, most applicants must complete the personal statement. Don’t stress about coming up with college essay ideas on your own! CollegeAdvisor.com provides ample free resources for students at every step of the college application process—including the essays. 

Unfortunately for those aiming to apply to colleges that don’t require essays of any kind, most require the personal statement. The best way to generate college essay ideas is by reading successful essay examples. Check out some of these Common App essay examples to understand what works. And, before even worrying about college essay ideas, learn more about the Common App essay in this article . We’ll outline the most important factors when writing this essay. 

If you’re reading this, you probably want to apply to colleges that don’t require essays. However, don’t let that limit you in the college application process. If you love a school, but they require supplemental essays, keep it on your list. Don’t let a disdain for essays keep you from attending your dream school .

CollegeAdvisor has many school-specific essay guides covering everything from college essay ideas to revising that final draft. Check out our USC , Yale , UChicago , and many more college-specific supplemental essay guides. If you’re stuck on thinking up college essay ideas, then these guides are a good place to begin.

Colleges Without Supplemental Essays – Final Thoughts

Without a doubt, supplemental essays are one of the most stressful parts of the college application process for many students. From choosing college essay topics to generating college essay ideas and actually writing essays, there’s a lot of effort involved.

However, as you can see from this article, there are many colleges that don’t require essays. So, if you’re crunched for time or feel overwhelmed by needing various impactful college essay ideas, you have options. It’s never a bad idea to add some schools that don’t require essays to your college list. 

Keep in mind, though, that you’ll most likely still need to write the personal statement essay. But one essay is better than six. And, remember that CollegeAdvisor can provide personalized attention for anything from brainstorming college essay ideas to applying for financial aid. Reach out if you’d like some guidance in your college application process. Otherwise, take advantage of our large library of free resources!

colleges without supplemental essays

This article was written by Sarah Kaminski. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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College Info , College Essays

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If the thought of writing a college essay fills you with terror, you might be wondering: are there any colleges that don't require essays?

The answer is yes, there are! This guide will give you an overview of colleges that don't require admissions essays, how to find these schools, and whether you should apply to one or not. We'll wrap up with a list of 64 colleges with no essay requirement that you can apply to.

Why Do Some Colleges Not Require an Essay?

In general, college essays help schools get a sense of you as a person—beyond your academic record, GPA, and test scores. They give you a chance to clearly articulate your goals and also give admissions officers a better idea of how you'll fit within the school's community. Finally, essays are helpful because they provide schools with concrete evidence of your writing ability.

However, there are many colleges that don't require essays for admissions. What are some reasons why? Let's take a look at the three biggest ones:

#1: Limited Resources

It takes a lot of admissions officers' time and energy to read and evaluate college essays.

At smaller schools with fewer resources, and even at larger schools that enroll tens of thousands of students, the resource costs associated with reading each essay for every single student might outweigh the benefits of getting additional information on applicants beyond GPAs, test scores, and transcripts.

Schools sometimes balance these concerns by requiring essays only for the most competitive programs (usually things such as engineering and nursing) or for scholarships, for which the additional information might be more instrumental in making decisions.

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They need to use those limited resources for coffee.

#2: Specific Admissions Cutoffs/Criteria

Many colleges, particularly public schools, admit students based on a type of selection index, which tabulates some combination of GPA, test scores, and/or class rank.

If students meet the minimum index score cutoff, they will be admitted. In this case, the school might simply feel that additional information from an essay isn't necessary for making a decision regarding whether a student will be successful or not.

Selection indices are also often different for in-state and out-of-state students, with the latter being subject to more stringent academic criteria.

In addition, the selection index is sometimes used for scholarships, with students with higher index scores being awarded more money.

Schools with selection indices do often require or recommend college essays for borderline candidates so that students can provide additional information on why they'd be a good fit at the school in spite of not meeting the stated academic criteria.

#3: Make Admissions Process Easy and Appealing

Some colleges hope that by making the admissions process easy and requiring only a transcript, test scores, and basic demographic information, they'll attract a wider variety of applicants.

By presenting their application process as a simple alternative to more intensive processes that require letters of recommendation, essays, and so on, they can attract students who are on the fence about applying to college at all .

They could even potentially motivate highly qualified applicants to use them as one of their safety or match schools because the students won't need to write additional essays or do extra work to apply.

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Some applications seem like you just have to click to apply!

How to Find Colleges That Don't Require Essays

There are over 4,000 postsecondary educational institutions in the US, and over 80 of these schools don't require essays for admission.

If you want to know whether a particular school requires an essay for admission, Google "[School Name] freshman admission requirements" or "[School Name] admissions essay." This should pull up pages from the school's official website, with links to guidelines on admission essays.

If, however, you're looking more generally for schools that don't require essays, you can check out our  list of 64 schools below or try one of the following starting places:

Public Universities in Your State

A significant number of public universities don't require essays for admissions.

Even if the major public schools in your state (such as the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign or UCLA) require essays for admission, you might find that the smaller campuses and smaller or more specialized state schools  might not require essays. So be sure to check those out!

You can actually get a pretty robust list of schools in your state by simply Googling "[State Name] colleges." Do this and a list of colleges will appear across the top of your screen. Thanks, Google!

Schools With Automatic Admissions Criteria

A school that has criteria for automatic admission (e.g., if you live in-state and have a particular class rank, GPA, and/or test score profile) might not require applicants who meet the automatic criteria to submit essays with their applications.

However, don't assume that just because you meet automatic admissions criteria that you won't need to write an essay.

At UT Austin, for example, all students must submit an essay , regardless of whether they meet the automatic admissions criteria. Although you could probably write just a straightforward paragraph in the essay section and still get admitted (since you meet the criteria), you'd likely be hurting your scholarship potential, not to mention jeopardizing your chances of being let into your desired major.

Small Private Liberal Arts Institutions

Another group of schools that might not require essays are smaller, private liberal arts institutions. These types of schools often serve a fairly niche market and might simply not get a high enough application volume to need essays to differentiate applicants.

Community Colleges

Local community colleges do not require essays for enrollment, since most allow anyone to enroll. Some even have automatic transfer agreements with local four-year universities. However, if you want to transfer to a particular four-year university after you finish at a community college, you might very well have to write an essay—so you could just be putting off the inevitable!

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You can find a lot of no-essay colleges for your basket!

Complete List: 64 Colleges That Don't Require Essays

The following chart contains 64 colleges with no essay requirement, organized by state.  

Note that these are far from the only no-essay college applications —just some of the most notable. Follow our guidelines above for finding additional essay-free colleges.

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Should You Apply to a College That Doesn't Require an Essay?

If you're reading this article, you're clearly worried about writing application essays for one reason or another. Maybe you're concerned about having enough time to finish everything. Or maybe you think your writing is terrible.

Here are some reasons to write college essays in spite of your misgivings:

#1: You Want to Apply to the Most Selective Schools

If you're hoping to apply to the most selective schools , you'll almost certainly have to write at least one essay. The most highly ranked no-essay school that I could find was the University of Pittsburgh—a great school. But if you're going for UChicago , MIT , Stanford , or an Ivy League-level school , you'll have to write an essay.

#2: You Want a Scholarship

Even if you do apply to a school that doesn't require an essay, you might still have to write an essay if you want to apply for the most competitive scholarships .

#3: You Have Special Circumstances to Explain

If you have any kind of special circumstance to explain—say, a dip in your grades one year due to a family illness—you definitely want to write about it in an essay. This will help you compensate for any perceived deficits in your academic record and also prevent you from being penalized in the admissions process for the vagaries of life.

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There's value in telling your story to the admissions committee.

#4: You're a Good Writer

I'm thinking that most strong writers are going to actively want to write college essays, but just in case: if writing is one of your strengths, definitely write an essay. You want to show off your best qualities to admissions officers, after all! If your primary concern is time, use something like the Common Application so you don't have to write a new essay for every school.

#5: The Essay Prompt Is Short

Some college essays are barely essays at all. Some required essays have just a 250-word limit, and 500 words is pretty standard. For reference, the first section of this article—"Why Do Some Colleges Not Require Essays?"—is about 450 words, including sub-headings. That's not so bad!

#6: You Can Get Help

Although it's important that your college essays are your own work, you're allowed to get help with them! Colleges expect you to put your best foot forward, so if that means discussing ideas with parents and teachers, and having someone else look over your rough drafts and offer suggestions, that's completely fine. You don't have to go at it completely alone.

#7: You Can Reuse an Essay for All Your Schools

For schools that use the Common App , Coalition App , or Universal College App , you can generally use one essay for all your colleges. Some schools might require additional supplemental essays, though, so be sure to look that up in advance to avoid being blindsided later.

So Should I Write an Essay?

If it happens that all the schools you want to apply to don't require essays, then great! But overall, I'd say don't let the fact that a school has one (or even two) essays stop you from applying if you're genuinely interested in going there.

If you find writing essays stressful or if you're time-limited, there's nothing wrong with using some strategies to limit the number of polished essays you need to produce (such as using the Common App) and applying to a mix of essay and no-essay schools.

Key Takeaways: Colleges That Don't Require Essays

There are actually tons of colleges that don't require essays. Here are some common reasons why a college might not require an essay:

  • Limited resources—it takes a lot of time and effort to read an essay by each applicant
  • They might have certain GPA and/or test score admissions criteria and feel as though the information provided by an essay isn't necessary
  • To make it more appealing to students by having an easier application process

So how can you find college applications without essays? Here are some places to start:

  • Public schools in your state, especially smaller ones in case the bigger ones do require essays
  • Schools with automatic admissions criteria—if you qualify for admission, you might not need to write an essay
  • Smaller liberal arts institutions
  • Community colleges

When it comes down to it, though, should you apply to colleges with no essay requirement? Here are some reasons you might want to write a college essay, even if you're apprehensive:

  • The most selective colleges usually do require essays
  • Scholarship applications for particular schools often require essays
  • If you have special circumstances to explain, plan on writing an essay
  • Strong writers should write essays to put their best foot forward
  • Word limits are often very short—think 250-500 words (that's just a few paragraphs!)
  • You're allowed (and encouraged) to get help with brainstorming ideas and revising drafts
  • If you use an application system that can send applications to multiple schools, such as the Common App, Coalition App, or Universal College App, you might be able to write just one essay for all the schools you're applying to

Don't forget to also check out our list of 64 colleges that don't require essays!

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No essay, no tears!

What's Next?

Need more help looking for colleges? See our step-by-step guide to college research . Also, check out how to decide where to go to college and the difference between a college and a university !

Decided to write an essay after all and need some help? Check out our comprehensive guide to writing a college essay and our guide to writing the "why this college" essay . Be sure to avoid these 10 college essay mistakes , too.

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Colleges Without Supplemental Essays 2021-2022

We recommend that most students apply to 8-12 colleges —typically at least two safeties, four targets, and two reaches. This strategy boosts a student’s odds of getting into multiple schools, increases their options, and even offers leverage to negotiate for more financial aid. 

Unfortunately, applying to this many schools is time-intensive, especially considering that many schools require supplemental essays as part of their application. Applying to 10 colleges could mean that you need to write 10-20 extra essays! Luckily, there are many schools that don’t have any extra essays beyond the Common App essay or personal statement, if you’re looking for schools to balance out your list without the additional writing.

Below is a list of 45 liberal arts colleges and universities without essay supplements. The list isn’t comprehensive, but it covers a spectrum of schools of varied selectivity. The list does not include any schools with optional essays, which are something we always encourage applicants to complete. 

Top Liberal Arts Colleges Without a Supplemental Essay Requirement

Update: We removed Grinnell College and Colgate University from this list because they’ve historically sent optional supplements to students after they applied.

Top Research Universities Without a Supplemental Essay Requirement

Should you only apply to schools with no supplement.

Applying only to schools with no supplement would limit your options severely, so we don’t recommend it. That said, supplements can serve as a litmus test for how much you care about a particular college. If you’re really excited to attend a particular college, you’re more likely not to mind extra application work (after all, it’s a chance to show a college why they should accept you). Conversely, if you’re turned off by writing a supplemental essay, it could indicate that you’re not as excited about a school as you thought you were.

Some essay prompts also give you insight into the personality of a college. For example, the University of Chicago is known for its quirky essay prompts—the 2021-2022 supplement has applicants explore ideas like What if the moon were made of cheese? and What’s so easy about pie? If UChicago’s unorthodox essay prompts make you cringe, it’s a possible sign that the school’s culture isn’t right for you. If they excite and inspire you, you could be a perfect fit.

Overall, a college’s essay requirements should not be a major deciding factor as to whether or not you apply to a school (unless you’re truly short on time). What’s most important is whether or not you will fit with the school academically and socially . Consider things like:

  • Do you match the stats for admitted students? 
  • Does the school offer strong programs in your areas of interest? 
  • Are there resources to support your unique values and pursuits outside of the classroom? 
  • Is the school located somewhere desirable for you? 

What Are Your Chances of Acceptance at these Schools?

If you’re trying to round out your school list, it’s important to know whether a particular school is a reach, target, or safety. CollegeVine can help! Our free chancing engine considers factors such as your grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities to estimate your odds at hundreds of colleges across the country, along with providing tips to strengthen your profile.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

public universities without supplemental essays

College applications require a lot of hard work and dedication. At times, it can feel difficult to stay organized during the application process. Especially if you have a sizable college list. Between writing a successful college essay and chronicling your various extracurricular activities , there are a lot of application sections to focus on. And that doesn’t even take supplemental essays into account! 

Knowing how to find the right college for you often requires a lot of research. That said, referring to a list of colleges without supplemental essays can be a great way to add to your college list. Especially if you don’t have time to write more essays. Ultimately, this is why having a list of colleges with no supplemental essays can be such a helpful tool. 

In this article, we review over 40 colleges that don’t require supplemental essays. Again, these colleges can serve as great last-minute additions to your college list!

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Northeast: colleges without supplemental essays

Let’s take a look at some of the best colleges without supplemental essays. As you go through this list, research the universities without supplemental essays that most stand out to you. And remember, there are lots of top colleges without supplemental essays!

Midwest: colleges without supplemental essays

Alternatively, if you’re interested in attending college in the midwest and are still wondering what colleges don’t require supplemental essays? consider some of these competitive colleges without supplemental essays.

South: colleges without supplemental essays

Still wondering what colleges don’t have supplemental essays? Take a look at some of these good colleges without supplemental essays located in the south. 

Deciding on your list of colleges

As you assemble your college list, you’ll likely want to research the differences between colleges and universities . You’ll also want to consider questions such as: Do you prefer urban or rural settings? Smaller or larger classes? etc. During your initial college research, you might also want to consider some of the ​​ top public universities in the West , as well as liberal arts colleges in the East . 

Ultimately, you’ll come up with a list of preferences, as well as other criteria, that will help you decide which colleges you want to apply to. It’s important to use these same standards when deciding which colleges without supplements you should add to your college list. In other words, although it may be easier to apply to schools that don’t require supplemental essays, you should always research each college thoroughly before choosing to apply. 

Key takeaways and moving forward

Colleges without supplemental requirements can make excellent additions to your college list. In fact, purposefully selecting several colleges without supplemental essays can help you save time and stay organized during the college application process . After all, it takes a lot of work to put together a strong college application. Writing your personal statement, asking for letters of recommendation , preparing scholarship essays , and continuing to engage in your extracurricular activities are all incredibly time-consuming. That said, if you feel like you could benefit from professional guidance while you work on your college applications, reach out to learn more about our services .

  • January 13, 2023

40+ Colleges That Don’t Require Supplemental Essays

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Colleges that Don't Require Supplemental Essays

Padya Paramita

May 9, 2022

public universities without supplemental essays

As you prepare for the college admissions cycle, you might be tempted to add schools to your list that require less work than others. While some schools like Yale have over five supplemental essays, there are colleges that have none! So, we offer you a list of colleges that don’t require supplemental essays . Although most colleges definitely want to see students answer school-specific prompts to determine fit, there are several top colleges that don’t require supplemental essays , including Williams, Middlebury, and Northeastern. Take a look at the full list below.

Liberal Arts Colleges that Don’t Require Supplemental Essays

  • Albion College
  • Allegheny College
  • Bates College
  • Beloit College
  • Coe College
  • Colby College
  • Colgate University
  • College of the Holy Cross
  • Connecticut College 
  • Denison University
  • DePauw University 
  • Dickinson University
  • Drew University
  • Franklin and Marshall College
  • Furman University
  • Gettysburg College 
  • Goucher College
  • Grinnell College
  • Hamilton College
  • Hanover College
  • Hollins University
  • Hope College
  • Illinois Wesleyan University
  • Juniata College
  • Kenyon College
  • Middlebury College
  • Muhlenberg College
  • New College of Florida 
  • Oberlin College
  • Rhodes College
  • Ripon College
  • Sewanee—University of the South
  • Siena College 
  • Skidmore College
  • Spelman College
  • St. John’s College (essay optional except for Pharmacy program)
  • St. Lawrence University
  • Susquehanna University 
  • Thomas Aquinas College
  • Union College
  • Ursinus College
  • Wesleyan University (there are essays only for international students)
  • Whitman College
  • Willamette University
  • Williams College

National Universities That Don’t Require Supplemental Essays

  • Binghamton University
  • Case Western Reserve University
  • Clark University
  • Clemson University
  • DePaul University
  • Drexel University
  • Florida State University 
  • Gonzaga University
  • Miami University—Oxford
  • Michigan State University
  • New Jersey Institute of Technology
  • Northeastern University
  • Ohio State University
  • Purdue University
  • Seton Hall University
  • Stevens Institute of Technology
  • Stony Brook University  (Honors College has essay requirement)
  • SUNY Buffalo
  • Temple University
  • Tulane University
  • University of Alabama
  • University of Arkansas
  • University of Colorado -Denver
  • University of Connecticut
  • University of Dayton 
  • University of Delaware
  • University of Denver
  • University of Iowa
  • University of Minnesota
  • University of Nebraska—Lincoln
  • University of New Hampshire 
  • University of the Pacific
  • University of Pittsburgh
  • University of St. Thomas

How to Successfully Apply to Colleges That Don’t Require Supplemental Essays

So, since you don’t have to write essays, how exactly do you convince admissions officers that you’re a strong applicant? You must take advantage of the following components:

  • Personal Statement - The personal statement is a common essay that goes to all of the colleges you apply to within one application system—and colleges that don’t require supplemental essays are no exception to this rule. The most common of these are the Common App personal statement prompts. You only have to write about one of the prompts provided by the Common App. The word limit is 650 words, which is a scant number to narrate a powerful story without leaving out too many important details. At the end of the day, you can write about anything, as long as it tells a story unique to you.
  • Activities List - When it comes to building a strong extracurricular activities list, it’s important to prioritize your passions, career interests, and ways to establish yourself as a leader. Prestigious colleges want to see tangible achievements and commitment towards activities you enjoy. And if you see a gap in the activities at your school, or find an opportunity to involve a greater community, don’t be afraid to start your own initiative! Once you’ve built your extracurricular profile, make sure you take advantage of the Common App activities list and describe what you did in order of impressiveness.
  • Letters of Recommendation - A college recommendation letter is a note from someone who knows you well in an academic or professional setting, highlighting your best qualities and why they recommend you for a position or institution you’re applying for. For most cases, colleges require letters of recommendation from two teachers, one from your guidance counselor, and provide the option of one additional recommendation that could come from a coach or club advisor. They should be written by teachers who know you the best. 

Now that you have an idea of which fall among colleges that don’t require supplemental essays , you can carefully conduct research to make sure you want to apply—and would genuinely be happy there. Don’t just blindly apply to schools just because there are fewer essay requirements. But, these should save you some time in terms of the essay load so take advantage of these if you want to add some targets or safeties as well. Happy searching!

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Lists & Rankings > College Admission > Colleges For B Students, Late Bloomers, And Underachievers

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Colleges and Universities That Don't Require Supplemental Essays

List produced by the facts.

* Green "Yes, connect me!" buttons indicate a featured school

  • Albion College (Albion, MI): An application essay is recommended but not required.
  • Binghamton University (Binghamton, NY): No additional essays are required, but students may submit special talent supplements. Yes, connect me!
  • Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland, OH): Additional materials are an optional way to enhance your application. Yes, connect me!
  • Clemson University (Clemson, SC): No personal essay is required with the Common or Coalition Application.
  • Colby College (Waterville, ME): Supplemental essays aren't required, but students may opt to submit a video through InitialView Elevator Pitch.
  • Connecticut College (New London, CT): No supplemental essays are requested beyond the Common Application personal statement requirement.
  • DePaul University (Chicago, IL): Personal essays are optional and not required for first-year student applicants; however, test-optional applicants are encouraged to submit the essay through the Common App.
  • DePauw University (Greencastle, IN): An additional essay beyond the personal statement is required to be considered for the Honor Scholar Program.
  • Dillard University (New Orleans, LA): If a first-year applicant doesn't meet certain requirements, they must submit two letters of recommendation and a personal statement (a three-to-five-paragraph essay outlining your future aspirations) for further consideration.
  • Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA): A 250–650-word essay via the Common or Coalition Application is the only writing requirement for most applicants, while certain programs in the Westphal College of Media Arts and Design require an additional writing supplement. Essays submitted on paper or emailed directly to the University are not accepted.
  • Fairleigh Dickinson University (Teaneck, NJ): Essays, résumés, and recommendation letters are optional but welcome.
  • Fordham University (Bronx, NY): An essay as part of the Common Application is required, but other writing opportunities are optional; applicants will not be penalized if they choose to skip these sections. Yes, connect me!
  • Grinnell College (Grinnell, IA): No fee to apply and no required supplement.
  • Kent State University (Kent, OH): Personal essays aren't required for first-year applicants.
  • Kenyon College (Gambier, OH): Prospective students who have an interest or talent they would like to share may submit an optional portfolio.
  • Middlebury College (Middlebury, VT): A supplemental essay is not required; any additional materials submitted beyond what are required are not guaranteed to be reviewed by admissions readers.
  • Muhlenberg College (Allentown, PA): Only a personal essay is required of applicants.
  • New Jersey Institute of Technology (Newark, NJ): An additional essay on a specific topic is required to apply to the Honors College.
  • Northeastern University (Boston, MA): Additional essays are not required beyond the personal statement through the Common or Coalition Application.
  • Seton Hall University (South Orange, NJ): An essay through the Common Application is the only writing requirement. Yes, connect me!
  • Siena College (Loudonville, NY): The essay is optional for the majority of applicants, though many students still choose to submit one to help the admissions team learn more about them. Applicants also have the option to submit a graded English or history paper from junior or senior year to show off their best work. Yes, connect me!
  • Skidmore College (Saratoga Springs, NY): Supplemental materials will be reviewed but aren't required; however, an additional essay is required in order to apply for the College's Porter-Wachenheim Presidential Scholarships in Science and Mathematics.
  • Spelman College (Atlanta, GA): Students who are invited to the honors program will be required to submit an additional essay.
  • Stevens Institute of Technology (Hoboken, NJ): Just one personal statement is required of applicants.
  • Stony Brook University (Stony Brook, NY): Additional essays are required for Honors, WISE, University Scholars, Scholars for Medicine, and Scholars for Dental Medicine applicants.
  • The Ohio State University—Columbus (Columbus, OH): Freshman applicants to the Columbus campus are only required to write a Common Application essay, while no essay is required for admission to OHIO's regional campuses. Yes, connect me!
  • The University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, AL): No personal essay is required for first-year student applicants.
  • University at Buffalo (Buffalo, NY): The University may ask applicants to submit a personal statement and/or mid-year grades if they apply without test scores.
  • University of Arkansas (Fayetteville, AR): A personal essay isn't required through the Common App, but supplemental essay prompts are available for students who would like to apply for scholarships.
  • University of Colorado, Denver (Denver, CO): The personal statement is the only writing sample submitted during the application process. Yes, connect me!
  • University of Connecticut (Storrs, CT): A personal essay through the Common Application is the only writing requirement for prospective students. Yes, connect me!
  • University of Dayton (Dayton, OH): Just one essay is required of applicants.
  • University of Denver (Denver, CO): No essays are required beyond the Common App personal statement. Yes, connect me!
  • University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA): If a student doesn't provide ACT or SAT scores at the time of application, they may be required to submit additional academic documents or a personal statement to receive an admission decision. Yes, connect me!
  • University of Minnesota—Twin Cities (Minneapolis, MN): No essays are required, but applicants have the option to submit short answers to supplemental questions.
  • University of Nebraska—Lincoln (Lincoln, NE): A personal essay isn't required for admission, but applicants must write a 500-word essay about themselves with a focus on leadership, career goals, and community service to be considered for the University's Leadership, Service & Diversity Enhancement Scholarships.
  • University of New Hampshire (Durham, NH): No supplemental essays or writing prompts are required other than the essay required as part of the Common Application.
  • University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, PA): A personal statement or the Common Application essay is required for scholarship consideration as well as for students applying test-optional. It could also increase your chances with guaranteed admission programs or help explain extenuating circumstances. Yes, connect me!
  • University of St. Thomas (St. Paul, MN): Applicants aren't required to answer the University's essay questions, but it's "highly recommend" to do so, especially if you apply without test scores.
  • University of Vermont (Burlington, VT): An optional essay is available as a chance for the University to get to know you better. Yes, connect me!
  • University of the Pacific (Stockton, CA): A personal statement is the only writing requirement for prospective students.
  • Wesleyan University (Middletown, CT): The submission of supplemental materials is optional.

Source: Moon Prep

Want more information on how this list was compiled? Find out more about  where our Lists & Rankings come from .

About This List

Having schools on your list that don’t require supplemental essays gives you more time and energy to apply to more colleges and programs. The following schools do not require supplemental essays as of the 2022–2023 application season. Please keep in mind that if you're interested in special programs such as honors, Nursing, or scholarship opportunities, you may still be required or encouraged to write essays—especially if you don't submit standardized test scores. (This list was compiled by our friends at Moon Prep , with additional research by CollegeXpress.)

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  • Best Colleges
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10 Amazing Colleges Without Supplemental Essays

Conventional wisdom claims that college hopefuls should apply to 12-15 schools to best increase their chances of getting into an institution that is a good fit for them. 

But it can be difficult for a lot of students to imagine pulling that off without such a process requiring months of laborious application crafting. 

Why? So many schools require their applicants to write pages upon pages of supplemental application materials. 

On top of this, many students won’t know what college they want to go to until they hear back from several schools regarding different scholarships and opportunities available to them. 

With some estimates showing that up to 55% of high school students feel unprepared for college, and up to 50% of college freshmen are undecided about their major, uncertainty is widespread during the college application process. 

It is only natural, then, that such a big decision would be made easier if students were able to compare and contrast many options after casting a wide net.

In trying to cast that wide net, some might think that the best schools must have the longest applications. But that isn’t always the case. 

This article breaks down 10 amazing schools that don’t require that students spend extra hours crafting an unnecessarily large number of supplemental essays. The following schools may require personal statements, but nothing beyond that. 

In laying out this list, this article shows that it’s a misconception that good schools must have time-consuming applications. 

As students begin to create their wide nets, any one of these schools would be fantastic additions that require little extra time spent on application-crafting.

University of Minnesota (Minneapolis, MN)

University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota is the flagship institution of the Minnesota university system. Ranked 24th in academic and research excellence in the 2021 Shanghai Ranking, this campus, nestled within the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, has produced 26 Nobel Prize-winning alumni, 3 Pulitzer Prizes , 25 Rhodes scholars , and about 130 Fulbright recipients. 

The University of Minnesota has an especially impressive Ecology department, ranked second globally, alongside the world’s 10th best Management department, and the 11th best Biotechnology department. 

The University of Minnesota is also home to institutes specifically designed for the study of Law and the Environment, Cognitive Sciences, Translational Neuroscience, Environmental study, Population studies, and more , assuring that students interested in these fields of study have a home on campus.

University of Denver (Denver, CO)

The University of Denver is a private research university in Denver, Colorado with incredibly strong Creative Writing, Astronomy, and Study Abroad departments. 

Denver is home to one of the nation’s oldest Creative Writing programs, founded by renowned novelist John Edward Williams in 1966. 

Their English department is also home to one of the most respected college literary magazines in the country, The Denver Quarterly. 

For students hoping to study abroad, Denver has one of the most robust study abroad programs in the world, with some classes having up to 71% of their students being offered the chance to study abroad. 

Finally, students interested in studying the heavens will have an unparalleled experience at Denver, as they have the 11th highest telescope in the world in terms of altitude at the Meyer-Womble Observatory . 

Furman University (Greenville, SC)

Furman University

Furman University is the oldest university in South Carolina, and is frequently ranked as one of the top universities in the Southern United States. 

Students hoping to work towards a more sustainable future will find a home at Furman University. Furman University, lead by the Shi Institute for Sustainability, has won several awards for its sustainability initiatives, including Furman being ranked by the AASHE’s Sustainable Campus Index as being the 10th most sustainable campus for all baccalaureate institutions. Furman also received the AASHE’s National Campus Sustainability Achievement Award in 2016.

For those looking to experience the serenity and beauty that a college campus can often provide to best enhance the overall student experience, Furman is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful college campuses in the world, with USA Today ranking Furman as 4th in the nation in 2016.

Juniata College (Huntingdon, PA)

Juniata College

Juniata College offers its students a truly one of a kind experience by having its student not declare a major, but instead, a “ Program of Emphasis ,” through which students have the opportunity to create their own, self-designed major. 

Students may choose from a set of pre-planned Programs of Emphasis or create their own. 

In this way, Juniata gives students unique opportunities for academic exploration due to its more flexible curriculum requirements. 

Nearly forty-five percent of Juniata students design their own program of emphasis.

Furthermore, Juniata has truly unique college-wide events which give the school a charming feeling of community. 

The Madrigal Dinner , for example, features up to 700 students tenting outside Ellis Hall for up to a week for the chance at being the first in line for a massive, campus-wide feast. 

Juniata has several unique celebrations of this sort, and a wonderful community atmosphere.

Skidmore College (Saratoga Springs, NY)

Skidmore College

Skidmore College is considered one of the nation’s “ New Ivies .” Ranked as the 38th best liberal arts college in the United States, Skidmore College earns its reputation as one of the most prestigious in the nation. 

Skidmore has one of the most robust Student Media infrastructures in the country. With the Salmagundi, a literary journal that has published the likes of Christopher Hitchens and Seamus Heaney, The Skidmore News, The Skidmo’ Daily, SkidTV, and more, those hoping to get hands-on experience with media production will have all the tools available to them to succeed at Skidmore. 

With a focus on promoting creative thought, Skidmore provides its students state of the art artistic facilities via multi-million dollar theaters, music halls, and art galleries, so that those interested in honing their creative abilities can experience some of the absolute highest quality artistic institutions in the country.

Northeastern University (Boston, MA)

Northeastern University

Northeastern University is a private research university in Boston, Massachusetts, which is second to none in enhancing their students’ education via internships, academics-related jobs, and career services.

Regularly ranked #1 in the country for Best Co-Ops/Internships by U.S. News and World Report and the Princeton Review, and ranked as having the best career services department in the nation by the Princeton review, those hoping to kick-start their career with on-the-ground employment/experience will be in wonderful hands at Northeastern.

Northeastern has one of the world’s largest and oldest co-op programs. In a co-op, students alternate between a semester of study and a semester of relevant work/internship experience, which is typically paid. 

While working, students do not pay tuition, and thus many students at Northeastern stay five years so that they can graduate with several years of work and academic experience under their belt.

Connecticut College (New London, CT)

Connecticut College

Connecticut College has maintained a truly distinctive tradition for over eighty years. All students, faculty, and staff at Connecticut College operate under an Honor Code , a promise all college members make to uphold a standard of mutual respect, excellence, and communal values. 

The Honor Code is taken so seriously that the college has an Honor Council , which litigates violations. 

As such, it is no wonder, with a strict code of mutual respect that fosters community and cooperation among college members, that Connecticut College is ranked 25th among all liberal arts colleges for its contribution to the public good, as measured through the degree of social mobility a school provides, the service it does for the nation, and the good an institution’s research does.

With award-winning library systems, rigorous academics, and a slew of notable alumni, this college promises its students the chance to achieve both academically and as upstanding citizens. 

Seton Hall University (South Orange, NJ)

Seton Hall University

Seton Hall is a private, Catholic research university in South Orange, New Jersey. As one of the nation’s largest religious universities, Seton Hall is ranked as the #29 Catholic university in the nation by Niche. 

Seton Hall produces the Journal of Diplomacy and International Relations , one of the largest diplomatic journals in the country, which promises students the chance to experience the forefront of international relations and diplomatic thought while studying at Seton. 

Related to this, undergraduate students produce the Diplomatic Envoy, a weekly newspaper regarding foreign relations, further demonstrating the kinds of projects students interested in international relations can engage in while at Seton. 

Furthermore, as an NCAA Division I, Big East Conference member, Seton Hall promises its students the full range of wonderful college athletics experiences to its students. 

Colby College (Waterville, ME)

Colby College

Colby College is another “ Little Ivy ” school, and is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 17th best liberal arts college in the nation, and the 5th Best Value school. Colby received an A+ from Niche in terms of academics and value, and an A for diversity.

Colby College is a model for sustainable institutions globally, as Colby is the largest college to have net zero carbon emissions, and is ranked as the most sustainable college in the country by Second Nature . 

Colby is ideal for students wanting to pursue research or major projects, as Colby follows a 4-1-4 course schedule, where students take 4 classes in the Fall and Spring, and then take a single, intensive, “Jan-plan” class in the winter.

In this way, Colby allows students to dedicate themselves to one project, area of research, or specialization in the winter—a truly unique educational opportunity.

Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland, OH)

Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University, a private research university in Cleveland, Ohio, is truly one of the nation’s best.

Ranked as the #42 best university in the country by U.S. News and World Report, this university has it all, from the 18th best Theatre program in the world according to The Hollywood Reporter , to the world-renowned Electrochemistry and Electroengineering departments which recently received a grant of $10.75 million dollars from the U.S. Department of energy.

With over a hundred “centers” dedicated to the investigation of subjects ranging from Growth Studies to Nonprofit Organizing, any student in just about any discipline will find a center on campus specially designed for their area of study.

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26 August 2021

Common App Schools That Don't Require Extra Essays (2021-22)

Posted in Your College List , Class of 2026

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The list includes schools that simply require the base essay (e.g. personal statement). Keep in mind that many of these schools may have "optional" prompts which you might want to complete anyway to strengthen your application.  

If you're a student or parent with a College Kickstart Plus or Premium subscription, this information is already available to you as part of our key application requirements view.

Click on Continue Reading for the list.

Common App Schools with No Extra Essays (Class of 2026 Edition)

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Colleges That Don’t Require Any Supplemental Essays

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  • Adelphi University
  • Alaska Pacific University
  • Albion College
  • Alma College
  • Baldwin Wallace University
  • Barry University
  • Bates College
  • Bay Path University
  • Beloit College
  • Bryant University
  • Butler University
  • Caldwell University
  • Capital University
  • Centenary College of Louisiana
  • Christopher Newport University
  • Clarkson University
  • Colby College
  • College of Saint Benedict
  • Concordia University Wisconsin
  • Cornell College
  • Cottey College
  • DePaul University
  • Elmira College
  • Gettysburg College
  • Grinnell College
  • Hanover College
  • Hellenic College
  • Hollins University
  • Hope College
  • Iona University
  • Juniata College
  • Kenyon College
  • Lyon College
  • McKendree University
  • Menlo College
  • Middlebury College
  • Northeastern University
  • Northern Vermont University Johnson
  • Northern Vermont University Lyndon
  • Ohio State University
  • Ripon College
  • Pace University
  • Pacific Lutheran University
  • Sacred Heart University
  • Salisbury University
  • Seton Hall University
  • Stevens Institute of Technology
  • SUNY Binghamton University
  • Susquehanna University
  • Temple University
  • Trinity University
  • Union College
  • University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • University of Colorado Denver
  • University of Connecticut
  • University of Idaho
  • University of Missouri – St. Louis
  • University of Nevada, Las Vegas
  • University of New Hampshire
  • University of Rhode Island
  • Wesleyan University
  • Whitman College
  • Wilkes University
  • Woodbury University

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More Than 80 Colleges With No Supplemental Essays 2023-24

By Brandie Erickson • October 30, 2023 • BS/MD Admissions Consulting College Application College Search Press

The college application process is daunting and time-consuming for many high school students. Most students will apply to anywhere from 5 -15 colleges, with some applying to even more than 20 schools if they apply to high-ranking schools like Ivy Leagues or competitive programs like direct medical programs. 

While applications like the Common Application or Scoir aim to streamline the application process by allowing students to write one universal personal statement that gets sent to all schools, they likely still need to write school-specific supplemental essays. These essays can range from “why do you want to attend this school?” to “tell us about a challenge.” Most students commit to months of effort to complete all their supplemental essays. 

public universities without supplemental essays

Luckily, not all schools require these additional essays, which could help students bulk up their college list without adding much more effort. Here are a few benefits of applying to schools with no supplemental essays. 

  • Reduced Stress – Applying to schools that don’t require supplemental essays means students have less pressure on them. Instead of spending hours each week on essays, they focus on a few of their top schools that do require supplemental essays or concentrate on keeping their grades up. 
  • Broader Range of Schools – Despite not requiring supplemental essays, some schools on the list are high-ranking universities. By not having to write additional essays, students can also apply to a wider range of schools, whether it is a research institution like Case Western Reserve University or a liberal arts college like Grinnell University. Therefore, when students are making their final decisions on where they want to apply to college, they will have more time to decide what type of school will fit their career goals and learning abilities best. 
  • Helps Level The Admissions Playing Field – For students who don’t think their talents are in writing but have solid grades and standardized test scores, applying to more schools that don’t require supplemental essays might be advantageous. Because they aren’t sending additional essays to their school, they will be primarily judged based on their personal statement, grades, extracurricular activities and standardized test scores, among other factors. Students who don’t have the resources or guidance to craft compelling supplemental essays should take advantage of those universities. 

Over 80 Schools With No Supplemental Essays In 2023-24

The following schools have no required supplemental essays to apply to their college. However, they might have additional essays for specific programs. For example, if a student is interested in New Jersey Institute of Technology’s Honors Program and Accelerated BS/MD program , they would be required to write two additional essays to be considered. 

Some of these schools will also have optional essays that students can write. Drexel University has the following optional prompt: “Drexel is committed to preparing each new generation of students to become productive, professional and civic-minded members of the community while continuing to focus on how we can contribute to solving some of society’s greatest challenges.  What do you view as a challenge facing society that you would like to contribute to solving? How would a Drexel education aid you in taking the first step toward a solution? (250 words or less).” While it can give students who write these optional prompts a competitive edge because it can help demonstrate interest in the school, it isn’t required. 

When adding these schools to your list, make sure to review the requirements before you apply. You can see the full list in our Forbes article here .

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  • Nov 25, 2020

Colleges Without Supplemental Essays

Supplemental Essays are essays required by a college or university in addition to those included on the Common Application , the Universal Application , or the Coalition Application .

There are many excellent schools that DO NOT require a supplement and we've started a list below.

LIBERAL ARTS SCHOOLS WITHOUT A SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAY

Albion College

Allegheny College

Beloit College

Coe College (personal essay optional for students who meet Coe’s minimum academic standards )

Colby College

Connecticut College

DePauw University

Drew University (applicants who select certain Specialty/Dual Degree programs will be required to complete an additional writing question)

Farleigh Dickinson

Furman University

Gettysburg College

Goucher College

Grinnell College

Hanover College

Hollins University

Hope College

Juniata College

Kenyon College

Middlebury College

Muhlenberg College

Ripon College (optional personal statement)

Sewanee—University of the South

Siena College (option to submit a graded paper in place of an essay on Siena application)

Skidmore College

Spelman College (additional essay for Honors program)

St. John’s University (essay for Pharmacy program or if not submitting testing scores)

St. Lawrence University

Susquehanna University

Wesleyan University (international students will be required to complete a writing prompt, depending on answers to some questions)

UNIVERSITIES WITHOUT A SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAY

Case Western Reserve University (Pre-Professional Scholars program requires additional writing questions)

Clemson University

DePaul University

Drexel University (essay for Westphal College of Media Arts & Design and custom-designed majors)

Fordham University (For 2020-2021, there will be a COVID-19 question)

Miami University—Oxford

New Jersey Institute of Technology (Albert Dorman Honors College has an essay requirement)

Northeastern University

Ohio State University (Honors, Scholars, Morrill Scholarship Program and some majors have additional essay requirements)

Seton Hall University

Stevens Institute of Technology (Accelerated Medicine program has an additional writing question)

Stony Brook University (Honors College, University Scholars, Women in Science and Engineering (WISE), Scholars for Medicine and Scholars for Dental Medicine have additional essay requirements)

SUNY Binghamton University (depending on answers to some questions, a writing question may be required)

SUNY Buffalo (depending on answers to some questions, a writing question may be required)

University of Alabama

University of Arkansas

University of Colorado -Denver

University of Connecticut

University of Dayton

University of Delaware (supplemental essay required for Honors Program)

University of Denver

University of Iowa (supplemental essays for certain programs of study)

University of Minnesota (depending on answers to some questions, a writing question may be required)

University of Nebraska—Lincoln (personal statement required to be considered for leadership and diversity scholarships)

University of New Hampshire

University of the Pacific

University of Pittsburgh (In lieu of an essay or personal statement, interested applicants are asked to answer short answer questions. Specific questions required for Pitt Honors admission.)

University of St. Thomas (essays recommended, but not required)

University of Vermont (optional essay questions available as part of application process)

Whether your list of schools requires supplemental essays or not – we’re here to help you share your story through the Essays on the Common application.

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Top Tier Admissions

Colleges Without Supplemental Essays: 2022-2023

  • Post author By Top Tier Admissions
  • Post date October 11, 2022
  • No Comments on Colleges Without Supplemental Essays: 2022-2023

colleges without supplemental essays

With the extension of test-optional policies at many top colleges and universities for the 2022-2023 application cycle, we can expect another year of flooded applicant pools. This test-optional environment begets a high volume of applications and, in some cases, a larger incoming class. For instance, Princeton’s Class of 2026 is their largest class EVER ! Simply put, more students are throwing their hats into the ring at all levels of schools.

Though Princeton has remained test-optional, they do still require supplemental essays . If you are applying through their single-choice early action application round (a non-binding option, though you’re unable to apply to other early round schools), these essays should be near completion, if they’re not already finalized.

But not all schools require extra essays!

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If you’re looking for a college or two that doesn’t require any supplemental essays, you won’t have to look far! Check out this sample of colleges and universities that do not require any additional supplemental essays this admissions cycle.

SAMPLE LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGES WITHOUT SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAYS

  • Albion College (application essay – recommended, not required)   
  • Allegheny College   
  • Bates College
  • Beloit College
  • Coe College  (personal essay optional for students who meet Coe’s minimum academic standards )
  • Colby College
  • College of the Holy Cross
  • Connecticut College 
  • Denison University
  • DePauw University 
  • Dickinson University
  • Drew University  
  • Farleigh Dickinson (essays are optional, but welcome)
  • Franklin and Marshall College
  • Furman University
  • Gettysburg College 
  • Goucher College
  • Grinnell College
  • Hamilton College
  • Hanover College (application essay – optional)
  • Hollins University
  • Hope College
  • Juniata College
  • Kent St a te
  • Kenyon College
  • Middlebury College
  • Muhlenberg College
  • New College of Florida
  • Oberlin College
  • Ripon College (optional personal statement)
  • Rhodes College
  • Sewanee—University of the South
  • Siena College  
  • Skidmore College
  • St. John’s University  (Personal Essay- recommended, Why essay for Pharmacy program)
  • St. Lawrence University
  • Susquehanna University 
  • Thomas Aquinas College
  • Ursinus College (optional short response)
  • Wesleyan University  
  • Whitman College

SAMPLE UNIVERSITIES WITHOUT SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAYS

  • Case Western Reserve University 
  • Clemson University
  • DePaul University
  • Drexel University  (essay for Westphal College of Media Arts & Design and custom-designed majors)
  • Fordham University (optional personal essays)
  • Miami University—Oxford
  • New Jersey Institute of Technology  (Albert Dorman Honors College has an essay requirement)
  • Northeastern University
  • Ohio State University   (Honors, Scholars, Morrill Scholarship Program and some majors have additional essay requirements)
  • Seton Hall University
  • Stevens Institute of Technology  (Accelerated Medicine program has an additional writing question)
  • SUNY Binghamton University  
  • SUNY Buffalo  
  • Tem p le University (optional essay)
  • Tulane University (optional supplemental essays)
  • University of Alabama
  • University of Arkansas
  • University of Colorado -Denver
  • University of Connecticut
  • University of Dayton 
  • University of Delaware  
  • University of Denver
  • University of Iowa  (personal statement required if not submitting test scores)
  • University of Minnesota  
  • University of Nebraska—Lincoln  (personal statement required to be considered for leadership and diversity scholarships)
  • University of New Hampshire 
  • University of the Pacific
  • University of Pittsburgh  (personal statement required to be considered for scholarships, essay required for Pitt Honors admission)
  • University of St. Thomas  (essays recommended, but not required)
  • University of Vermont  (optional essay questions recommended, but not required)

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Even if you choose to apply to schools that don’t require supplemental essays, most still require the personal statement. With the November 1 early decision deadline looming, Top Tier Admissions is here to help you craft a distinctive, compelling, and uniquely you essay. From brainstorming to the writing process to pushing through writer’s block, we can make sure your essay will stand out from the crowd.

Seeking reassurance that your essay(s), application and strategy are on-point? Our trusted team is here to support you with our Application Review Program .

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public universities without supplemental essays

College Verdict

public universities without supplemental essays

The Best Colleges Without Supplemental Essays

public universities without supplemental essays

It's no secret that the college admissions process is becoming increasingly competitive. With more and more students vying for a limited number of spots, colleges are looking for any edge they can get. For many students, this means spending hours crafting the perfect personal essay.

But what if there was a way to avoid all of that stress? What if you could apply to colleges without having to write any supplemental essays?

Sound too good to be true? Well, it turns out there are actually quite a few colleges that don't require any supplemental essays. So if you're feeling overwhelmed by the thought of writing yet another essay, check out this list of schools that you can apply to without any extra work.

Great Colleges That Don't Require Extra Essays

As a high school student, the thought of college can be daunting. You may feel like you're not prepared or that you don't know what you want to do with your life. Luckily, there are some great colleges out there that don't require extra essays. This means that you can focus on your studies and not worry about writing additional essays.

Some of these great colleges include the University of California-Berkeley, the University of Michigan, and Northwestern University. These schools are all highly ranked and offer a variety of majors for students to choose from. So whether you're undecided about your major or you know exactly what you want to study, these schools are a great option.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the college application process, remember that there are some great schools out there that don't require extra essays. This can help take some of the pressure off and allow you to focus on what's important - getting a great education!

The University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota is consistently ranked as one of the top academic institutions in the world. The 2021 Shanghai Ranking placed it 24th in terms of academic and research excellence. It has produced 26 Nobel Prize-winning alumni, 3 Pulitzer Prize winners, and 25 Rhodes scholars. 130 Fulbright recipients have also come from the University of Minnesota.

Its Ecology department is second globally ranked, and its Management and Biotechnology departments are both in the top 10 globally. These rankings are a testament to the high quality of education that students receive at the University of Minnesota.

What's even more impressive is that the University of Minnesota achieved all these feats without requiring any supplemental essays! This just goes to show that the admissions process here is truly based on merit. If you're looking for a top-tier university that will give you a world-class education, look no further than the University of Minnesota.

The University of Denver

The University of Denver is a top-tier university offering a wide range of academic programs. Among its many strengths, the University of Denver is especially well-known for its excellent Creative Writing and Astronomy programs.

If you're considering studying Creative Writing at the University of Denver, you'll be glad to know that the school has an excellent reputation in this field. In fact, many successful writers have studied at the University of Denver, including Pulitzer Prize winner Annie Proulx.

Likewise, if you're interested in pursuing a career in astronomy, the University of Denver is an excellent choice. The school offers a world-class astronomy program, and its location in the Mile High City means you'll have access to some of the best astronomical observing facilities in the country.

Of course, no matter what your academic interests are, the University of Denver is worth considering as your college choice. The school offers a variety of study abroad programs, and it's one of a handful of colleges that does not require any supplemental essays for admission. So if you're looking for a top-notch university that's also reasonably priced and easy to get into, the University of Denver should definitely be on your list!

Furman University

Furman University is located in Greenville, SC and was founded in 1826. Founded in 1770, the University of South Carolina is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state and has earned accolades for its sustainability efforts. The university's picturesque campus has often been ranked among the most beautiful in the world.

The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including arts and sciences, business, education, health sciences, and law. Furman also has a strong commitment to service learning and offers opportunities for students to get involved in the local community through volunteerism and internships.

Furman’s picturesque campus is home to over 2,600 acres of forested land, a lake, and numerous hiking trails. The university also boasts a state-of-the-art recreation center, which includes an indoor pool, basketball courts, weight room, and more.

Whether you’re looking for a rigorous academic program or want to take advantage of all that Furman’s beautiful campus has to offer, this university is definitely worth checking out!

Juniata College

Juniata College is located in Huntingdon, PA. The school offers a “Program of Emphasis” instead of traditional majors, which allows students to design their own major. Nearly 45% of Juniata students take advantage of this opportunity.

Juniata's Madrigal Dinner is one of several college-wide events that contribute to the school's community atmosphere. This event is a performance of Renaissance music followed by a feast, and it is open to the entire campus community. Other popular events include the Halloween Dance and the Spring Fling concert series.

What sets Juniata apart from other colleges is its unique approach to academics. The Program of Emphasis allows students to customize their education to suit their interests and goals. This makes Juniata an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a non-traditional path.

Skidmore College

While Skidmore College may not be as old as some of the other Ivies, it's easy to see why it is often included in that prestigious group. Ranked 38th among liberal arts colleges in the United States, Skidmore has a prestigious reputation that attracts top students from around the world.

But Skidmore isn't just a great academic institution; The Student Media infrastructure is robust and offers state-of the-art facilities for students who want to develop their creative abilities. From the award-winning Saratoga Springs newspaper The Daily Gazette to WSPN, Skidmore's student-run radio station, there are plenty of ways for students to get involved in the media scene on campus.

And for those who prefer not to write or be on camera, Skidmore's Creative Arts Center offers state-of-the-art facilities for those interested in photography, graphic design, and other creative pursuits. With top-notch faculty and ample opportunities to get involved, Skidmore is an ideal choice for any student looking for a well-rounded college experience.

Northeastern University

Northeastern University is located in Boston, Massachusetts and is a private research institution. The university's co-op program and career services department are regularly ranked as the best in the nation. Through the university's co-op program, Northeastern students have the opportunity to gain relevant work and academic experience.

Northeastern University's location in Boston provides students with access to some of the best internship and job opportunities in the country. The city is home to countless businesses and organizations, many of which are looking for talented interns and employees.

The university's co-op program is a great way for students to get real-world experience while still completing their degree. Co-ops provide students with an opportunity to learn new skills, network with professionals, and build their resumes. For many employers, a student's participation in a co-op program is seen as a valuable asset.

If you're looking for a top-notch education and the opportunity to gain valuable work experience, Northeastern University is the place for you!

Connecticut College

Located in New London, Connecticut, Connecticut College is a private liberal arts college with an enrollment of around 2,000 students. The school was founded in 1911 and is affiliated with the Episcopal Church.

One of the things that makes Connecticut College unique is its Honor Code. All members of the college community are expected to uphold the code, which includes principles such as honesty, respect, and responsibility. Violations of the code are investigated by the Honor Council, a student-run body.

Academically, Connecticut College is highly respected. Washington Monthly ranks it 25th among liberal arts colleges for contributing to the public good. The school also has excellent library systems and rigorous academics. In fact, it's one of only a few colleges that don't require supplemental essays for admission.

If you're looking for a top-notch liberal arts education at a school with strong values, Connecticut College is definitely worth considering.

Seton Hall University

Seton Hall University is a private, Catholic research university located in South Orange, New Jersey. Niche ranks Seton Hall as the 29th Catholic university in the nation. The school produces the Journal of Diplomacy and International Relations and undergraduate students produce the Diplomatic Envoy. Seton Hall is an NCAA Division I member of the Big East Conference.

The school was founded in 1856 by Archbishop James Roosevelt Bayley, the first Bishop of Newark, with support from members of the Society of Jesus. The school originally operated out of Bayley's home before moving to its current location in 1860. Seton Hall became a college in 1878 and began offering graduate programs in 1927.

Today, Seton Hall offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs across nine schools and colleges. The school has an enrollment of about 5,800 students, with almost half of them being undergraduates. Undergraduates can choose from over 50 majors, while graduate students can pursue degrees in fields like law, business, education, nursing, diplomacy, and more.

Seton Hall is known for its rigorous academic programs and its commitment to providing a well-rounded education. In addition to academic coursework, students are required to take courses in theology and philosophy regardless of their major. The school also emphasizes service learning and community engagement; all undergraduates are required to complete at least 40 hours of community service before they graduate.

athletics are also an important part of life at Seton Hall. The school is a Division I member of the NCAA and competes in the Big East Conference. The Seton Hall Pirates have won numerous conference championships over the years and have made several appearances in the NCAA tournament.

If you're looking for a top-notch Catholic university with strong academics and a commitment to service, Seton Hall is definitely worth considering!

Colby College

Colby College is a top-ranked liberal arts college located in Waterville, Maine. The school has consistently been ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best liberal arts colleges in the nation, and recently was named the 5th Best Value school. Niche gives Colby an A for academics and value. Second Nature has also named Colby the Most Sustainable Collegein the Country.

What makes Colby such a great choice for students? First and foremost, the quality of education is excellent. Students can expect to receive a well-rounded education that will prepare them for success in any field. Secondly, Colby's commitment to sustainability is evident in all aspects of campus life. From dining options to energy efficiency, students can be assured that they are attending a college that is doing its part to help the environment. Finally, Colby's location in Maine provides students with access to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Whether you enjoy hiking, skiing, or simply exploring new places, Maine is sure to please.

So if you're looking for a top-ranked liberal arts college that offers an excellent education at a great value, be sure to check out Colby College!

Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University is a top-ranked university that offers a world-class education. The school's theatre program is ranked 18th in the world by The Hollywood Reporter, and its electrochemistry and electroengineering departments are among the best in the world. Recently, the school was the recipient of a $10.75 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to support its research programs.

Case Western Reserve University is an excellent choice for students who want to get a top-notch education. The school offers a wide variety of degree programs, and its faculty are leaders in their fields. If you're looking for a university that will challenge you academically and give you the opportunity to pursue your passions, Case Western Reserve University is the right place for you.

There are a number of top-notch colleges that don't mandate supplemental essays, making the college application process less daunting. These schools include UC-Berkeley, the University of Michigan, Northwestern University, and the University of Minnesota. All of these schools are highly ranked and offer various majors for students to pick from. These schools are a fantastic regardless of whether you have no clue what you want to major in, or you know precisely what you're looking to study.

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Top Colleges without Supplemental Essays 2023

Jaya Ghosh

  • November 4, 2022
  • Parents Must Read , Student Admission , Study Abroad , Under Graduate

Supplemental essays are additional pieces of writing required by many highly-selective universities, and they can be just as revealing and important as your personal statement. However, while applying to multiple colleges, writing these supplemental essays take a lot of time and effort as well. In this article, we will go through the top colleges without supplemental essays. Additionally, we will also go through the advantage & disadvantages, and application tips.

Supplemental College Essays

A supplemental essay gives you an opportunity to tell the admissions committee about something you weren’t able to cover in your main essay. These supplemental essays are usually shorter than the main college essay, but they are equally important. Some colleges ask for just one supplemental essay while others may require several.

Supplemental essay prompts come in all shapes and sizes. In some cases, schools let applicants choose from several options. In addition to the Personal Statement, many colleges require applicants to submit supplemental essays. Students need to respond to a wide variety of topics like their most meaningful activity, their interest in a particular college or major, or an important community they belong to.

Supplemental essays give the opportunity to applicants to give more information to an admissions committee to further show why they are a good fit for a school. Prospective students should keep in mind not to repeat something that has already been covered in their main essay.

Pros and Cons of applying to colleges without supplemental essays:

Colleges do care about supplemental essays as your writing gives colleges extra insight into who you are as a person beyond your grades.

Strong supplemental essays give you an advantage in your application to many different schools is your chance to prove that you know what makes the school special and that you are excited to attend that particular institution.

Good supplementary essays highlight two points, that you are a good fit for a college and simultaneously complement the college by discussing its unique strengths.

Colleges that do not require a supplemental essay help students pad their numbers, apply to more schools, and have more options. It is recommended that most students apply to 8-12 colleges—that is two safeties, four targets, and two reaches. This strategy boosts you from getting into multiple schools, increases your options, and supports negotiating for more financial aid. 

Key Advantage of Applying to Colleges without Supplemental Essays

Applying to many schools is time taking, especially considering that many schools require supplemental essays as part of their application. Applying to 10 colleges could mean that you need to write 10-20 extra essays. But there are many schools that do not have any extra essays beyond the Common App essay or personal statement; you can balance out your list without the additional writing.

Disadvantages of Applying to Colleges without Supplemental Colleges

Applying only to schools with no supplement would limit your options severely, and is not recommended. Supplement essays are proof of how much you care about a particular college and if you are really excited to attend a particular college, you will not mind extra application work; after all, it gives you a chance to show a college why they should accept you.

On the other hand, if you are turned off by writing a supplemental essay, it could indicate that you are not as excited about a school as you thought you were.

So, what should you do?

To conclude, supplemental essay requirements should not be your major deciding factor as to whether or not you apply to a school unless you are truly short on time. What is most important is whether or not you will fit in with the school academically and socially.

How to improve admission chances if no Supplemental Essays are required:

As you begin the college application process, you realize that applying to colleges can take a lot of work. Putting together a personal statement that helps demonstrate to colleges what type of person you are, an activity list, and supplemental essays are time-consuming and you spend months preparing it.

Over the years, the number of applications submitted to Common App, one of the biggest college application platforms, has increased.  First of all, it is important to build a balanced college list rather than applying to only the most competitive schools keeping safety, matches, targets, career, major goals, financial aid, school size, location, and more.

Once this information has been gathered, students can start categorizing their school list into safety schools, match schools and reach schools. A mixture of these three types of schools can help you create a balanced college list- Safety schools.  Match schools.  Reach schools. 

Key Components to Focus on while Applying to Colleges without Supplemental Essays

As you do not have to write essays, the only way you can convince admissions officers that you are a strong applicant is by taking advantage of the following components –

Personal Statement

The personal statement is a common essay that is submitted to all the colleges you apply and  colleges that don’t require supplemental essays  are no exception to this rule.

The most common of these are the Common App essay prompts . You only have to write about one of the prompts provided by the Common App. The word limit is 650 words, which is a very small number to narrate a powerful story without leaving out too many important details. At the end of the day, you can write about anything, as long as it tells a story unique to you.

Activities List

When it comes to building a strong extracurricular activities list, it’s important to prioritize your passions, career interests, and ways to establish yourself as a leader. Prestigious colleges want to see tangible achievements and commitment toward activities you enjoy.

If you see a gap in the activities at your school or find an opportunity to involve a greater community, go ahead and take initiative. Once you have built your extracurricular profile, make a list of your activities and describe what you did in order of impressiveness.

Letters of Recommendation

A college recommendation letter is a note from someone who knows you well academic or professional setting. Your teacher or counselor can do justice to this role, highlighting your best qualities and why they recommend you for a position or institution you’re applying for. In most cases, colleges require letters of recommendation from two persons; a teacher or a counselor who knows you the best. 

List of Top Colleges without Supplemental Essays:

Liberal arts colleges that do not require supplemental essays.

  • Albion College
  • Allegheny College
  • Bates College
  • Beloit College
  • Coe College
  • Colby College
  • Colgate University (optional)
  • College of the Holy Cross
  • Connecticut College 
  • Denison University
  • DePauw University 
  • Dickinson University
  • Drew University
  • Franklin and Marshall College
  • Furman University
  • Gettysburg College 
  • Goucher College
  • Grinnell College
  • Hamilton College
  • Hanover College
  • Hollins University
  • Hope College
  • Illinois Wesleyan University
  • Juniata College
  • Kenyon College
  • Middlebury College
  • Muhlenberg College
  • New College of Florida 
  • Oberlin College
  • Rhodes College
  • Ripon College
  • Sewanee—University of the South
  • Siena College 
  • Skidmore College
  • Spelman College
  • St. John’s College (essay optional except for Pharmacy program)
  • St. Lawrence University
  • Susquehanna University 
  • Thomas Aquinas College
  • Union College
  • Ursinus College
  • Wesleyan University (there are essays only for international students)
  • Whitman College
  • Willamette University
  • Williams College

National Universities that do not require Supplemental Essays

  • Binghamton University
  • Case Western Reserve University
  • Clark University
  • Clemson University
  • DePaul University
  • Drexel University
  • Florida State University 
  • Gonzaga University
  • Miami University
  • Michigan State University
  • New Jersey Institute of Technology
  • Northeastern University
  • Ohio State University
  • Purdue University
  • Seton Hall University
  • Stevens Institute of Technology
  • Stony Brook University  (Honors College has an essay requirement)
  • SUNY Buffalo
  • Temple University
  • Tulane University
  • University of Alabama
  • University of Arkansas
  • University of Colorado -Denver
  • University of Connecticut
  • University of Dayton 
  • University of Delaware
  • University of Denver
  • University of Iowa
  • University of Minnesota
  • University of Nebraska—Lincoln
  • University of New Hampshire 
  • University of the Pacific
  • University of Pittsburgh
  • University of St. Thomas

Sources: 1 , 2 , 3 .

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Application Requirements

We look forward to learning about you through your application.

Here you'll find a detailed explanation of each admission application requirement. Most of the information here applies to both first-year and transfer applicants, and requirements are the same for domestic and international applicants.  

Don't forget to reference our Application Tips for guidance on filling out the Common Application.

Application

We accept the Common Application  and the Coalition Application by Scoir . Both are treated equally by the Admissions Committee. Complete and submit your materials as soon as possible to ensure full and timely consideration of your application. Your portions of the application are due by the application deadlines (November 1 for Restrictive Early Action and January 1 for Regular Decision); high school counselors are given an additional week to submit materials on your behalf. 

If you use the Common Application , you must submit your application before your supporting materials (Secondary School Report, Teacher Recommendations, etc.) can be released to a college. Until you submit your own application sections, no part of your application will be transmitted to the Harvard Admissions Office.

If you use the Coalition Application , remember you must submit the separate Harvard supplement in addition to the application by the application deadline for your application to be considered complete. 

Submitting Your Application

Receiving confirmation of your application.

After you submit your application, we will send an email confirmation with a PIN to access the Applicant Portal. We begin sending these daily application confirmation emails in mid-September each year. Most applicant receive their confirmation email the day after they submit their application online. Applications sent in the mail will take up to two weeks to process.

If you have not received your confirmation email, please check your spam/junk folder for messages from [email protected] or [email protected]

If have searched your inbox and still cannot find your confirmation email, we encourage you to check the application system you used and ensure you clicked "Submit" and not just "Save".

If you still cannot locate your application confirmation email, please contact us . Choose the category “Admissions” and then the subject “Applicant Questions (if you've already submitted your application)” in the drop-down menu, or call 617-495-1551.

Paying the application fee or requesting a fee waiver

You may pay your application fee online with a credit card via the Common Application or Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir websites.

You may also send a check or money order to Harvard College Admissions, 86 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138. Please include the applicant’s name with the payment.

Fee waivers: We are committed to making the application process accessible for all students. If the admissions application fee presents a hardship for you or your family and you plan on applying for financial aid, the fee will be waived. Please follow these instructions to request your fee waiver . Requesting a fee waiver will not disadvantage your application in any way.

Completing the Harvard supplement questions

Complete the Harvard Questions with the Common Application or Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir*. This includes the following five required short-answer questions, each with a 200 word limit. 

  • Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard?
  • Briefly describe an intellectual experience that was important to you. 
  • Briefly describe any of your extracurricular activities, employment experience, travel, or family responsibilities that have shaped who you are.
  • How do you hope to use your Harvard education in the future?
  • Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you. 

*Please note that the Harvard supplement is separate for the Coalition Application, so you must submit both the application AND supplement for your application to be considered complete. 

Additional application questions

What if i am homeschooled.

Each applicant to Harvard College is considered with great care and homeschooled applicants are treated the same as all other applicants. There is no special process, but all relevant information about your educational and personal background is welcome. In addition to the application, all applicants are required to submit a transcript (which can be created by the family member or agency overseeing your schooling), and recommendations. If the application fee presents a hardship for your family,  simply request a fee waiver .

Hear from Harvard students who were homeschooled, in the Harvard Gazette article ‘ Homeschooled en route to Harvard .’

What if I need to make updates to my application after I submit it?

Do not resend your application in order to make updates. If you need to update your identification or contact information, or send updates, additional information, or corrections, please do so via the  Applicant Portal .

Misrepresentation of Credentials

Be completely accurate in your application materials. If we discover a misrepresentation during the admissions process, you will be denied admission. If you have already been admitted, your offer will typically be withdrawn. If you have already registered, your admission will normally be revoked, and we will require you to leave the College. Harvard rescinds degrees if misrepresentations in application materials are discovered.

The determination that an application is inaccurate or contains misrepresentations rests solely with the Admissions Office and will be resolved outside the student disciplinary process.

School Reports and Teacher Recommendations

Secondary school report.

The secondary school report is a required form that is submitted by your school counselor or another school leader. This form gives an overview of the student's academic record. It includes the applicant's academic transcript(s), a letter of recommendation, and a school profile (if available). If a counselor is unable to submit a letter of recommendation for the applicant, another teacher or school leader may submit an additional recommendation letter. 

Midyear School Report

When you apply, your school counselor will often send your transcript with few or no senior year course grades included. That is why the midyear school report is required - to allow us to review your performance in the first half of your senior year coursework .  The midyear school report must be completed by your school counselor or other school official. Please request that the midyear school report is completed and returned to our office as soon as possible. 

Midyear School Report FAQs

What if i'm applying restrictive early action and i don't have my midyear grades yet.

Restrictive Early Action applicants are not required to submit the midyear report by the November 1 deadline. If you applied Restrictive Early Action and are deferred to Regular Decision, please submit the midyear report and transcript in February, or as soon as your midyear grades are available.

I'm an international student and my academic year is different. Do I still need to submit the midyear report?

If you study the IB curriculum or the A-level curriculum, then we expect that your school will send predicted grades, based on your current classroom work and the results of any internal or mock exams you have taken up to that point. If your school does not issue official or predicted midyear grades for your final year of school, then you do not need to submit the midyear report form, although the item may remain on your checklist.

What if I have already graduated from high school?

If you have already graduated from high school, you should ignore the midyear report requirement (though the item may remain on your Checklist in the Applicant Portal) and simply ask your school to send a final school report if you have not already done so.

Teacher Evaluations

Ask two teachers in different academic subjects who know you well to complete the Teacher Recommendation forms (which includes an evaluation form and a letter of recommendation). If you wish to submit additional letters of recommendation, you can do so after you submit your application. In your application confirmation email, there will be a personalized link to send to your recommenders.

What courses should I take to prepare for applying to Harvard?

There is no “one size fits all” rule about which curriculum to study during secondary school years. Students should challenge themselves by taking courses deemed appropriate by their teachers and counselors. But some students believe that “more is always better” when it comes to AP, IB or other advanced courses.

While some students prosper academically and personally by taking large numbers of such courses, others benefit from a more balanced approach that allows them additional time for extracurricular and personal development. Even the best students can be negatively affected by taking too many courses at once, and might benefit instead from writing, reading or research projects on subjects of great interest to them.

To learn more, read our Guide to Preparing for College. To avoid the “burnout” often seen among secondary school students, please refer to our article, Time Out or Burn Out for the Next Generation .

Is there a specific math requirement?

Applicants to Harvard should excel in a challenging high school math sequence corresponding to their educational interests and aspirations. We recommend that applicants take four years of math courses in high school. Ideally, these math courses will focus on conceptual understanding, promote higher-order thinking, and encourage students to use mathematical reasoning to critically examine the world. Examples include rigorous and relevant courses in computer science, statistics and its subfields, mathematical modeling, calculus, and other advanced math subjects.

Students’ math records are viewed holistically, and no specific course is required. Specifically, calculus is not a requirement for admission to Harvard. We understand that applicants do not have the same opportunities and course offerings in their high schools. Moreover, many programs of study at Harvard do not require knowledge of calculus. We encourage applicants to take the courses that are available to them and aligned with their interests and goals.

Students intending to study engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics, statistics or other fields where calculus is needed may benefit from taking calculus in high school. However, students at Harvard can still pursue such fields by starting with one of our introductory calculus classes that has no high school calculus prerequisite. On balance, we encourage all students to master foundational mathematical material instead of rushing through any of the more advanced courses.

Final School Report and Transcripts

All admitted students who choose to enroll are required to send a Final School Report and transcript as soon as their final grades become available – no later than July 1. The Final School Report and transcript should be completed and sent by a school counselor or other school official through Parchment/Docufide or Scrip-Safe International, if your school has access to these submission options.

IB students should send their final results as soon as they are released in mid-July. We will expect to see final A levels results by mid-August.

Standardized Test Scores

For the College Classes of 2027-2030, students may apply for admission without standardized test scores. Please read our announcement for more details on the application changes for the upcoming cycles. 

If you choose to submit standardized tests, you may submit the SAT or ACT (with or without the writing component). While the College Board no longer offers Subject Tests and they are not a requirement for applying, you may submit Subject Tests taken in the last 5 years. If you choose to submit Subject Tests, it is more useful to choose only one mathematics test rather than two. Similarly, if your first language is not English, a Subject Test in your first language may be less helpful.

Standardized Testing FAQs

How do i let harvard know whether i would like my application reviewed with or without test scores.

When you apply for admission, you can choose whether or not our review of your application will include your standardized test scores (SAT and ACT).

  • If your scores already are on file before you apply and you choose at the time of your application to proceed without scores, we will not consider those scores. 
  • If you initially chose an application review without scores and would now like to include scores in your file, you may make this request by submitting the "Change to consideration of test scores" form on your Applicant Portal. 
  • If you ask that our review includes your scores, either at the time of application or after you apply by submitting the form in the Applicant Portal, they will be part of your application throughout the admissions process.

Can I self-report my test scores?

Yes. Applicants may provide self-reported SAT and ACT test scores (including Subject Tests, Advanced Placement, IB, etc.). Admitted students who decide to enroll at Harvard College will be required to submit official test scores.

How do I send my test scores?

You are free to use the College Board Score Choice option or the similar option offered by the ACT. Our official codes are 3434 for the College Board SAT Reasoning Tests and 1840 for the ACT if you are submitting official test scores as part of your application.

  • How to send your SAT scores
  • How to send your ACT scores

Are there test score "cutoffs"?

There are no score cutoffs, and we do not admit “by the numbers.” For the ACT, we will evaluate your highest composite score and any other scores you choose to share with us. We take into account your educational background when reviewing your scores.

Should I prepare for standardized tests?

Opportunities to prepare for standardized tests vary greatly for students of different socioeconomic backgrounds. Research indicates that short term test preparation usually has little effect, but the free “test prep” now offered by the SAT and the ACT might make a significant difference for students who follow their programs for extended periods of time. Such free programs could help to level the playing field for students from under-resourced schools by providing the academic skills that will serve them well on standardized tests and also in college. Students can also do well by studying widely and deeply over a long period of time on their own with the help of family, school, or community organizations.

What do standardized tests and grades indicate about academic preparation for college?

Standardized tests provide a rough yardstick of what a student has learned over time and how that student might perform academically in college - but they are only one of many factors considered. High school grades in a rigorous academic program can also be helpful in assessing readiness for college courses, but the thousands of secondary schools around the country and the world employ various high school curricula and a wide range of grading systems - and some have no grades at all. Other students have been homeschooled or prepared for college by taking part in multiple schooling opportunities both in person and electronic.

Given the wide variation in how students prepare for Harvard – as well as the fact that most applicants and admitted students have outstanding academic records – it is difficult for high school grades to differentiate individual applications. That does not mean that high school grades are unimportant. Students who come to Harvard have done well day to day in their high school studies, providing a crucial foundation for academic success in college, including a 97% - 98% graduation rate.

SAT and ACT tests are better predictors of Harvard grades than high school grades. However, admission officers understand that not all students attend well-resourced schools throughout their lives, and that those who come from modest economic backgrounds or first-generation college families may have had fewer opportunities to prepare for standardized tests. Each application to Harvard is read with great care, keeping in mind that talent is everywhere, but opportunity and access are not.

Does Harvard accept SAT Subject Test scores?

As announced by the College Board, Subject Tests and the essay portion of the SAT have been terminated, except in certain special circumstances. See the  College Board's announcement for more details. Harvard admission officers review all material that an applicant submits, so if you have already taken Subject Tests or the essay portion of the SAT, you may still submit it along with your other application materials.

How do I choose whether to submit my standardized test score?

Choosing whether or not to submit test scores is a personal decision for every applicant. There are many reasons why students do not submit test scores, including expense. In general, though, anything that might give a more complete or positive picture of an applicant can be helpful. Even if you feel your test scores do not fully represent your strengths, perhaps because of a lack of resources at your school or limited opportunities to prepare for or take the tests, you could note this fact in your application to provide context. There are no score cutoffs and we do not admit “by the numbers.”

Why can't I view my standardized test scores in the Common Application?

Since Harvard College is not requiring applicants to submit standardized test scores for the 2022-2026 application cycles , your standardized scores will not display in the Common Application PDF preview, even if you have chosen to submit them. However, if you entered your test score information and would like it to be considered, that data will still be transmitted to us with your application and we will review it. You can verify this by viewing the Application Checklist in your Applicant Portal. You will see a green check mark if we have received your standardized test scores.

How will Harvard evaluate the new digital SAT?

The College Board's shift to a digital delivery of the SAT will not impact the way in which Harvard reviews test scores within applications. For the College Classes of 2027-2030, students may apply for admission without standardized test scores. Students who do not submit standardized test scores will not be disadvantaged in their application process. Please  visit the College Board FAQs  for more information.  

Supplemental Materials

Our standard application materials typically give us ample information for making admission decisions. However, we recognize you may have truly exceptional talents or achievements you wish to share, and we want you to have every opportunity to best represent yourself.

At the discretion of the Admissions Committee, supplementary materials—such as music recordings, artwork, or selected samples of academic work—may be evaluated by faculty. These materials are entirely optional.

Material Types

How to submit documents and articles.

Scholarly articles, research, creative writing or other documents of which you are the primary author should be submitted in the Upload Materials section of the Applicant Portal . This is the most efficient and direct method of submitting these materials, because they will be added directly to your official application. All submissions should include a list of any individuals with whom you collaborated in the production of the work. If appropriate, please identify your research sponsor, mentor, and/or laboratory or research group leader and provide a short description of your particular contribution to the work.

How to submit media (video, audio, or images)

You may submit optional supplementary media materials (e.g. videos, audio recordings, or images) electronically via Slideroom . Details for submissions in art, dance or choreography, musical performance or composition, will be found on the Slideroom website. There is a small submission fee, but if this fee causes you economic hardship, you may request a fee waiver at the point of submission. You may also contact us to request a fee waiver.

If you encounter technical difficulties on Slideroom, you may submit a document via your portal with YouTube video links. Our team may follow up to request a Slideroom submission at a later time. 

Should I submit other academic materials?

Harvard accepts other standardized tests or other academic credentials if you choose to submit them. In any admissions process, additional information can be helpful. For example, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, A-levels, national leaving examinations, national or international contests, early high school assessment scores such as the PSAT or pre-ACT, or courses taken outside your school during the school year or summer are just some examples of information that could be submitted. Subject Tests and the essay portion of the SAT have been terminated, except in certain special circumstances. Harvard admission officers review all materials that an applicant submits, so if you’ve already taken Subject Tests or the essay portion of the SAT, you may still submit them along with your other application materials.

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  4. Colleges That Don't Require Supplemental Essays 2022

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  6. How to Write the University of Pennsylvania Supplemental Essays 2019

    public universities without supplemental essays

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  1. Supplemental Essays 2023

  2. Universities Without Application Fees Episode 4

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  1. 33 Colleges Without Supplemental Essays!

    Located in the heart of the city, the University of Pittsburgh is among the top colleges without supplemental essays. This large public university focuses on innovation as a path to positive change. With a prime location, students are encouraged to take advantage of all that the university and city have to offer. 22.

  2. Over 40 Colleges Without Supplemental Essays 2022-23

    getty. On average, the number of applications submitted to Common App, one of the biggest college application platforms, has increased yearly, with 14.4% more applications submitted in 2020- 21 ...

  3. 64 Great Colleges That Don't Require Essays to Apply

    Western Oregon University. Required only for students who don't meet minimum academic requirements. Admission primarily via GPA (3.0+) and recommendation; test optional except for students applying for scholarships and honors, or for those who don't meet minimum academic requirements. Eastern Oregon University.

  4. Colleges That Don't Require Supplemental Essays

    The schools on the following list don't require supplemental essays to apply for the 2023-2024 academic year. However, they might have additional essay requirements if you apply for a specific program. Some of these schools will also have optional essays if you want to write one. For example, Drexel University offers the following optional ...

  5. Colleges Without Supplemental Essays 2021-2022

    Colleges Without Supplemental Essays 2021-2022. We recommend that most students apply to 8-12 colleges—typically at least two safeties, four targets, and two reaches. This strategy boosts a student's odds of getting into multiple schools, increases their options, and even offers leverage to negotiate for more financial aid.

  6. More Than 80 Colleges With No Supplemental Essays 2023-24

    Here are a few benefits of applying to schools with no supplemental essays. Reduced Stress - Applying to schools that don't require supplemental essays means students have less pressure on them ...

  7. 40+ Colleges That Don't Require Supplemental Essays

    During your initial college research, you might also want to consider some of the top public universities in the West, as well ... As you go through this list, research the universities without supplemental essays that most stand out to you. And remember, there are lots of top colleges without supplemental essays! College name. Location.

  8. Colleges Without Supplemental Essays 2022-2023

    This top university is one of the country's leading research universities in the country and is within the nation's top 60 ranked schools. Students can choose to write a personal statement or may simply submit their essays through the Common Application. No supplemental essays are involved. 10. University of Vermont.

  9. Colleges that Don't Require Supplemental Essays

    While some schools like Yale have over five supplemental essays, there are colleges that have none! So, we offer you a list of colleges that don't require supplemental essays . Although most colleges definitely want to see students answer school-specific prompts to determine fit, there are several top colleges that don't require ...

  10. Colleges That Don't Require Supplemental Essays

    Having schools on your list that don't require supplemental essays gives you more time and energy to apply to more colleges and programs. The following schools do not require supplemental essays as of the 2022-2023 application season. Please keep in mind that if you're interested in special programs such as honors, Nursing, or scholarship opportunities, you may still be required or ...

  11. 40 Colleges Without Supplemental Essays 2022-23

    Having a list with colleges categorized as safeties, matches, and targets ensures that students will get into a number of schools, giving them options on May 1 when making their college decision. Applying To Schools With No Supplemental Essays. Here is a list of schools that don't require supplemental essays to apply to their undergraduate ...

  12. 10 Amazing Colleges Without Supplemental Essays

    Public domain photo by Nick Kline via Wikimedia Commons. Colby College is another " Little Ivy " school, and is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 17th best liberal arts college in the nation, and the 5th Best Value school. Colby received an A+ from Niche in terms of academics and value, and an A for diversity.

  13. Common App Schools That Don't Require Extra Essays (2021-22)

    In search of schools with no extra Common App essays? Look no further, check out our list of popular schools here, updated for the 2021-22 application season. The list includes schools that simply require the base essay (e.g. personal statement). Keep in mind that many of these schools may have "optional" prompts which you might want to ...

  14. Colleges Without Supplemental Essays

    University of South Dakota. University of Wyoming. For the record, approximately one-third of Common App members don't require "supplements" or college-specific essays. Choosing where you'll spend the next years of your life is no simple matter, and we know there is a ton of thought that goes into it. But, no matter the long list of ...

  15. Colleges on the Common Application with no additional required essays

    Common App Schools with No Extra Essays (Class of 2023 Edition) Institution: Adelphi University: Albright College: Allegheny College: Appalachian State University: Arcadia University: Arizona State University: Bard College: Bates College: Baylor University: Belmont University: Beloit College:

  16. Colleges that Don't Require Supplemental Essays

    Maybe you want to apply to a few schools, but don't want to write any essays. Perhaps you've already written so many supplemental essays that the thought of writing one more makes you want to lock yourself in your room with five family size bags of kettle corn and never come out. Maybe you're just trying to take advantage of the Common Application's 20 school cap by sending out your ...

  17. More Than 80 Colleges With No Supplemental Essays 2023-24

    Over 80 Schools With No Supplemental Essays In 2023-24. The following schools have no required supplemental essays to apply to their college. However, they might have additional essays for specific programs. For example, if a student is interested in New Jersey Institute of Technology's Honors Program and Accelerated BS/MD program, they would ...

  18. Schools Without Required Supplemental Essays (Updated for 2023-24

    Also, removing supplemental essay requirements tends to increase the number of applicants, as the easier application process incentivizes more students to apply—and schools always benefit from having more applicants. Whatever these schools' reasons, no mandatory supplemental essays means a lot of saved time and an easier application process ...

  19. Colleges Without Supplemental Essays

    University of Denver. University of Iowa (supplemental essays for certain programs of study) University of Minnesota (depending on answers to some questions, a writing question may be required) University of Nebraska—Lincoln (personal statement required to be considered for leadership and diversity scholarships) University of New Hampshire.

  20. Colleges Without Supplemental Essays: 2022-2023

    Colleges Without Supplemental Essays: 2022-2023. With the extension of test-optional policies at many top colleges and universities for the 2022-2023 application cycle, we can expect another year of flooded applicant pools. This test-optional environment begets a high volume of applications and, in some cases, a larger incoming class.

  21. The Best Colleges Without Supplemental Essays

    Washington Monthly ranks it 25th among liberal arts colleges for contributing to the public good. The school also has excellent library systems and rigorous academics. ... There are a number of top-notch colleges that don't mandate supplemental essays, making the college application process less daunting. These schools include UC-Berkeley, the ...

  22. Top Colleges without Supplemental Essays 2023

    Top Colleges without Supplemental Essays 2023. Jaya Ghosh. November 4, 2022. Parents Must Read, Student Admission, Study Abroad, Under Graduate. Supplemental essays are additional pieces of writing required by many highly-selective universities, and they can be just as revealing and important as your personal statement.

  23. Application Requirements

    *Please note that the Harvard supplement is separate for the Coalition Application, so you must submit both the application AND supplement for your application to be considered complete. ... As announced by the College Board, Subject Tests and the essay portion of the SAT have been terminated, except in certain special circumstances. See the ...

  24. Top Universities That Don't Require Supplemental Essays

    Note that the starred (**) universities above have specific conditions for optional supplemental essays. The University of Delaware and University of South Carolina require either test scores or personal statements. If you don't send SAT/ACT scores, the essays are required.The University of Missouri (Mizzou) has a similar rule, except they also require a resume along with supplemental essays.

  25. Living without a bank account: Academic Minute

    Today on the Academic Minute: Jay Zagorsky, clinical associate professor of markets, public policy and law at the Questrom School of Business at Boston University, explains why it's getting harder to live without a bank account. Learn more about the Academic Minute here ...