What is the best format for the Common App essay?

You have a lot of flexibility in how you format your Common App essay, which can actually be a great thing—it allows your personality to shine through. Unlike school English essays, this isn't a place to rigidly structure your writing with an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Instead, it's perfectly fine (and often encouraged) to be creative with your structure as long as the essay is clear and meaningful.

Many successful essays are narrative in style, using specific anecdotes or stories to illustrate growth or reveal something important about the student. Starting with a story or a moment is engaging and lets readers connect to you as a person. For example, someone might begin their essay with a vivid scene: "I gripped the worn handle of the paintbrush, the bristles trembling as much as my hands. This mural was not just a project, it was my declaration of self." From there, you can circle back to what the experience meant to you and how it shaped your outlook.

That said, a straightforward style can also work if it feels most authentic to you. Admissions officers care more about your voice than the structure itself. Some essays incorporate dialogue, unique formats like letter-writing, or even non-linear timelines. Think about the style that feels most natural for the story you want to tell.

In terms of technical formatting, when you copy and paste your essay into the Common App, basic formatting like indents may disappear, but you can use line breaks between paragraphs—admissions officers expect this and find it perfectly readable. There are no strict rules about font or spacing because the Common App will apply its own settings, but you should avoid special formatting like bold, italics, or bullet points. Aim for paragraphs of 3–7 lines each, as large blocks of text are harder to read, but ultimately, clarity and readability are what matter.

Ultimately, pick a structure and narrative style that feels authentic and helps communicate your main message about who you are. Let your voice guide you and don’t be afraid to show your true self—creative, reflective, or even a little vulnerable. This is your chance to go beyond transcripts and test scores, and there’s no single 'best' format that everyone must follow.