How many drafts of my college essays should I expect to write?

It’s completely normal to go through several drafts of your college essays before you feel satisfied, and most students end up revising their Common App essay at least 4 to 7 times. Some people go through even more if they have big changes—like completely reworking their approach or focusing on a different experience halfway through. The number of drafts depends on your writing style, your willingness to experiment, and the feedback you get.

Most essays look very different in the final version compared to the first one. For example, a student might start by writing a chronological story, but after feedback, shift to a circular structure that starts with a big moment, flashes back, and then returns to the opening. Each draft usually sharpens your focus, cuts unnecessary pieces, and helps your unique voice come through.

It’s common to second-guess word choices and structure, but over-editing can sometimes make your writing feel stiff. Try reading your current draft out loud—if it sounds like you, that’s a good sign! Also, getting feedback from someone you trust can help you know when your essay is resonating. One way to manage multiple drafts is to set specific goals for each round (for instance, the third draft just focuses on clarifying your theme, while the fourth is all about grammar and style).

In short, your experience is normal, and most successful applicants end up with a handful of very different drafts. Be patient with yourself, and remember that revising is where a lot of the real writing happens. By the end, your essay will communicate more clearly and authentically than it did in the beginning.