What is the proper format for a college essay header?

You don’t have to stress too much about headers for college essays, especially for the Common App and most direct-apply portals. When you paste your essay into the designated text box on the Common Application or a school-specific portal, the system does not require or expect a header. In fact, extra formatting (like your name, page numbers, or the essay prompt) can sometimes look awkward or even take up your precious word/character count.

Admissions officers know who you are because your application data is tied to the essay submission automatically. They also know which prompt you chose (if relevant), as there are places to indicate this in the application system. You don’t need to label it with your name, the word "Essay,” or the prompt number—just start your essay directly with the first sentence of your content.

For example:
If your essay starts: "My hands were shaking as I stepped up to the podium..." you just paste that directly into the application without anything above it.

A few exceptions:
- If you are submitting your essay as a separate document (like a PDF or Word doc, which some schools might request), it’s okay to include a header in the top left: your full name, the date, and maybe your application ID. Still, keep it minimal. Example:

Jane Doe
8/1/2024
Common App Personal Statement

Then skip a line and start your essay. But again, most colleges prefer pasting into a text box instead of uploading documents.

For school-specific supplements that use different portals (like the UC Application), follow the portal's instructions carefully. If they ask for a prompt number or have special requests, they'll tell you. Usually, they still just want the essay content itself.

Bottom line: For almost all major application systems, you do NOT need a traditional essay header. Just focus on writing a strong, clear essay and pasting it where they ask for it. Double-check each college’s individual requirements to be sure, but you’re unlikely to make a mistake by skipping extra formatting.