What are the current essay prompts for Clemson's application?
I’m getting started on my college applications and Clemson is definitely one of my top choices. I researched their app on the Common App, but I’m a bit lost about what essays are required for Clemson specifically.
Does Clemson have their own supplemental essay, or is it just the Common App personal statement? Would really appreciate if someone who applied last year (or recently) could let me know. Also, do the prompts change each year or do they usually stay the same for a while?
Super nervous about getting everything right, so any information about topics and word limits would help a lot. Should I be preparing any 'Why Clemson?' type essays?
Does Clemson have their own supplemental essay, or is it just the Common App personal statement? Would really appreciate if someone who applied last year (or recently) could let me know. Also, do the prompts change each year or do they usually stay the same for a while?
Super nervous about getting everything right, so any information about topics and word limits would help a lot. Should I be preparing any 'Why Clemson?' type essays?
2 weeks ago
•
32 views
Camille L.
• 2 weeks ago
Advisor
Clemson University uses the Common Application, but as of the 2023-2024 cycle (and for several recent years), Clemson doesn't require any additional supplemental essays aside from the main Common App Personal Statement. This means you’ll only need to submit the standard 650-word personal essay that all Common App schools see.
There’s no separate 'Why Clemson?' essay, no quick-take questions, nor any program-specific writing required for most applicants. The Common App will prompt you to choose one of its broad essay topics like discussing an accomplishment, a meaningful background, a time you overcame a challenge, or a topic of your choice. Those prompts generally stay consistent year-to-year, so you can find the current ones easily on the Common App’s website or by logging into your Common App account.
One thing to watch out for is if you’re applying to specific programs (for instance, Honors College or specialized scholarships through Clemson), they may have their own separate application and essay requirements. For example, the Clemson University Honors College has its own set of essay prompts, usually available on their website or the Honors application portal. If that’s something you’re considering, plan ahead to check their deadlines and prompts (they often ask focused questions about leadership, problem-solving, or your future goals at Clemson).
If you want to show particular interest in Clemson, you can mention why you’re excited about Clemson in your main Personal Statement if it fits naturally, but it’s definitely not required. For instance, if you’re writing about your passion for environmental sustainability and Clemson’s forestry or wildlife programs inspired you, it wouldn’t hurt to mention that organically.
To sum up: No special essay for Clemson’s main undergraduate application—just the Common App essay. That makes your process a bit simpler and lets you focus on making your Personal Statement as strong as possible!
There’s no separate 'Why Clemson?' essay, no quick-take questions, nor any program-specific writing required for most applicants. The Common App will prompt you to choose one of its broad essay topics like discussing an accomplishment, a meaningful background, a time you overcame a challenge, or a topic of your choice. Those prompts generally stay consistent year-to-year, so you can find the current ones easily on the Common App’s website or by logging into your Common App account.
One thing to watch out for is if you’re applying to specific programs (for instance, Honors College or specialized scholarships through Clemson), they may have their own separate application and essay requirements. For example, the Clemson University Honors College has its own set of essay prompts, usually available on their website or the Honors application portal. If that’s something you’re considering, plan ahead to check their deadlines and prompts (they often ask focused questions about leadership, problem-solving, or your future goals at Clemson).
If you want to show particular interest in Clemson, you can mention why you’re excited about Clemson in your main Personal Statement if it fits naturally, but it’s definitely not required. For instance, if you’re writing about your passion for environmental sustainability and Clemson’s forestry or wildlife programs inspired you, it wouldn’t hurt to mention that organically.
To sum up: No special essay for Clemson’s main undergraduate application—just the Common App essay. That makes your process a bit simpler and lets you focus on making your Personal Statement as strong as possible!
Camille L.
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
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5 years
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