What font size should I use for my college application essay?
I'm currently finishing up my Common App essay and I want to make sure I get all the formatting right. I'm a little confused about the proper font and font size to use, though. I've read some places that say 12pt Times New Roman, but others mention different fonts like Arial or even Calibri.
Does the font size really matter, or is it okay if I submit it in 11pt if it looks better? I want my essay to look good, but I don't want to risk any formatting errors that could mess up my application or make me look unprofessional to the readers. If anyone has gone through this process and has advice, I'd really appreciate it.
Also, for schools that have their own portals, should I be changing the size or sticking with what's on the site?
Does the font size really matter, or is it okay if I submit it in 11pt if it looks better? I want my essay to look good, but I don't want to risk any formatting errors that could mess up my application or make me look unprofessional to the readers. If anyone has gone through this process and has advice, I'd really appreciate it.
Also, for schools that have their own portals, should I be changing the size or sticking with what's on the site?
7 months ago
•
187 views
Grayce Gibbs
• 7 months ago
Advisor
When you copy your essay into the Common App’s essay box, any formatting (like font, size, and sometimes even bold or italics) usually disappears and gets standardized. There is not much flexibility because the text box will automatically change the font and size to what they have set.
If you’re uploading a PDF on a college-specific portal, stick to 12-point font in Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. 11-point might look good to you, but 12-point guarantees your essay will be easily legible on any screen or printout. This can be important for accessibility and to avoid looking like you’re trying to squeeze in more words by shrinking the font. In professional settings like college admissions, erring on the side of standard and clear is always safest.
For schools with their own portals, check their specific instructions. Some schools specify a font or size, but if they don’t, default to the same standards: 12-point, readable font (Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri), double-spaced, 1-inch margins.
If you’re uploading a PDF on a college-specific portal, stick to 12-point font in Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. 11-point might look good to you, but 12-point guarantees your essay will be easily legible on any screen or printout. This can be important for accessibility and to avoid looking like you’re trying to squeeze in more words by shrinking the font. In professional settings like college admissions, erring on the side of standard and clear is always safest.
For schools with their own portals, check their specific instructions. Some schools specify a font or size, but if they don’t, default to the same standards: 12-point, readable font (Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri), double-spaced, 1-inch margins.
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Grayce Gibbs
Denver, CO
Dartmouth College (AB); Colorado School of Mines (MS)
Experience
4 years