What is the best college essay editing service you have used or heard about?

I’m just starting to work on my essays, and the process feels kind of overwhelming. I really want my essays to stand out, but I struggle with writing and editing, especially for something this important.

I see a ton of essay editing services online, but I have no idea which ones are actually legit or worth the money. If you’ve used one before, which company did you go with and was it helpful? Did their edits make a difference in your writing, or is it better to just stick with teachers or friends?

I’d really appreciate any recommendations or personal experiences, because I’m trying to avoid any scams and don’t want to waste my time or cash. My dream school is super competitive, so I want every advantage I can get.
4 months ago
 • 
50 views
Camille Luong
 • 4 months ago
Advisor
Feeling overwhelmed when starting your college essays is really common, especially when it seems like there are endless editing services to choose from. When it comes to essay review, some students find huge value in using professional services, while others prefer to lean on trusted teachers or friends who know their writing style and personality.

One reliable approach is to use a service that specializes specifically in college admissions essays, not just general writing help. These reviewers tend to understand what admissions officers are looking for, and can push you to add the personal details and introspection that make essays compelling. For instance, one student I talked to submitted a strong Common App essay draft, but after using a specialized review service, they were prompted to dig deeper about a specific childhood moment that shaped their worldview. The result was a much more memorable final draft.

However, not all services are created equal. Some online editors deliver only generic grammar corrections, which don’t really help your essay stand out. Look for an editing service that provides detailed, personalized feedback on content, theme, and originality, not just spelling and grammar.

When deciding if the investment is worth it, consider your comfort with self-editing and whether you have access to insightful feedback from people you trust. Many students combine both: they get a round of personalized feedback from a professional service to elevate their ideas, and then have a teacher or mentor help with polishing and proofreading the final product. If affordability is a concern, check to see if your school’s guidance office offers free or reduced-cost reviews, or if community organizations in your area have college essay workshops.

One last tip: beware of any service that guarantees admission or promises unrealistic results—no editor can get you into your dream school, but the right feedback can make your essays stronger and more authentic. Being clear on what you need (detailed content editing vs. just proofreading) will help you pick the service that fits best.

If you decide to work with a professional editor, pick a company or individual with a track record specifically in college application essays and real testimonials or student reviews you can verify. Combined with honest feedback from people who know you well, you’ll be in a great position to craft something unique and powerful.
Camille Luong
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
Experience
5 years
Rating
5.0 (5 reviews)