York University Toronto

How long should my college/university application essay be?

I have to write an essay answering 3 questions for my college/university application. I'm just wondering what the length should be(in pages). There was no length recommended. I was thinking of doing a 5 paragraph essay with an introduction, 3 body paragraphs that will answer each question and then a conclusion. Thanks. Or any tips on a way to write it. Thanks.

Public Comments

1. That's a good idea. You could do that. However most colleges look for someone intelligent, bright, but mostly...succint. Do you have any idea how many applications and essays they read at the admissions office daily?! Don't make it too long and not too short. Go to the college and talk to some of the students admitted and get some helpful tips on how THEY got admitted. Every college is different, and is looking for different qualities and skills. Good luck!
2. I agree that is a good to write a 5 paragraph essay. Just remember they aren't they aren't looking for a research paper. Make sure you are clearly convey your points, but try and be concise. If you have the grades there's no reason why you won't get accepted. Go to collegeboard.com that gives you information about the school and what they would like to see from applicants.
3. The 5 paragraph format is great for organizing your essays. Just remember to open the first few lines with something interesting, original, and/or funny. Preferrably a combination of the three. If you have had a fairly boring life, make something up. For example: You are the child of gay parents, one of whom happens to be a professional clown/magician. Don't use that example, but something along those lines. Try to come up with something offbeat, like strange hobbies that took up most of the time you should have been studying, and work it into the beginning of the essay in a tongue-in-cheek way. If you make the essay reader laugh, he or she will remember you as being different from the rest of the dull, "I am very committed to academic excellence" speeches they have to read every day.