York University Toronto

How to answer this question on university application form?

I'm in my senior year at high school and I have to fill in a supplementary application form while applying to a university of my choice. One of the common question that I have to answer is: What draws me to this program?/Why do you want to apply to this university? How do I go about answering this question properly? What do universities look for while reading my answer?

Public Comments

1. go for an honest answer. you like the campus, the environment the ppl. or because of its name or you think thins university will give you the edu. you seek. etc
2. They want a rationale of why you decided upon your major. If you don't have any idea what you want to major in, that may be a problem, but you could just say that you can take some classes and decide on it later. Explain why you chose that university over the competion (community colleges, state univerities, private colleges, ect).
3. I do have some supplementary forms, but nothing like what you’ve described. I’ll try helping you out anyway. I think if they ask something like that they are not looking for something like it’s a good place to go to, or that it’s convenient, you are definitely going to want to put it across in such a way that it boosts your chances to gain entry. Honestly I don’t think blunt honesty is the way to go about answering this. You want to leave a lingering impression with your answers. You want to stick out like a sore thumb in this situation, no doubt. When you answer this question you should keep in mind that the aim of the questions they are asking you is to find the best fit candidate for their school. Everything you are saying is being analyzed. Hence you want to be advertising yourself. For example if you are applying for a program in humanities, you could mention how your past volunteer experiences have given you insight into the field, and how you think that such experiences would be sharpened by the advancement their program could better your results. Use your answer to show that you know something about the University and that you are ready to do what it takes to succeed in the program. Research the program and research what you can use it to become. A person that is well informed about the school is very interested in participating. This is the message that goes to the person reading it and it is what you make it. I’d even go as far as to say that you should incorporate subtle flattery in your answer (only subtle) about the program’s reputation and the potentials it could bring. I just wouldn’t go as far as to say that “it’s my dream University, I’ve always looked forward to getting my degree here” because it sounds cheap and immature. Keep in mind that whatever you are saying in these questions should focus on your fit with the school. The reader on the other end of your questions should be left with the impression that you have done your homework and are convinced that you have what it takes to make accomplishments. Project yourself as a willing and deserving candidate who has great potential in whichever field you are looking into. Be honest to the degree that you do in actuality mean what you say, but don’t be so honest that your answer has no value. Don't be afraid to show your enthusiasm and competence. I hope that helps. The best of luck to you.