What is the best way to start the heading format for a college application essay?
I'm about to start working on my personal statement for the Common App and I've realized I don't really know how to format the heading or if I even need one at all. Do colleges want your name and date at the top, or is it better to leave it blank and just start the essay?
I've heard different things from friends and on some websites—some people say it looks more professional to have a heading while others say it doesn't matter. If you've already submitted your applications and got advice from counselors or teachers, I'd love to know what worked for you.
Also, if certain colleges have specific requirements, how do I make sure I’m following them? Any tips would really help because I don't want to mess up something that could make my application look bad.
I've heard different things from friends and on some websites—some people say it looks more professional to have a heading while others say it doesn't matter. If you've already submitted your applications and got advice from counselors or teachers, I'd love to know what worked for you.
Also, if certain colleges have specific requirements, how do I make sure I’m following them? Any tips would really help because I don't want to mess up something that could make my application look bad.
1 week ago
•
5 views
Roger Lopez
• 1 week ago
Advisor
You actually do not need a heading for your Common App personal statement. When you submit your essay through the Common Application portal, your essay is automatically attached to your application profile, so your name and identifying information are already linked.
Adding a heading like your name or date is not expected or required, and it could potentially use up valuable word count since there’s a tight word limit (650 words). Admissions officers are most interested in your story and voice, so starting the essay right away with your first sentence is perfectly normal and often recommended.
However, some colleges may have separate supplement essays or require you to upload materials as PDFs or Word documents on their own portals (outside of the Common App system). In that case, check their instructions carefully. If they do want a heading, follow whatever format they specify in their application instructions or on their website. Usually, in these rare cases, a simple format with your name, the essay prompt, and the date will be sufficient at the top of your document.
To be sure you’re meeting expectations, glance through each college’s admissions website or their instructions provided in the application. If nothing is mentioned, assume a heading isn’t needed. Focus on making your opening sentence grab attention, since the reader will see your name elsewhere in your application packet. Good luck with your essay! Starting simply and keeping the formatting clean is always a safe bet.
Adding a heading like your name or date is not expected or required, and it could potentially use up valuable word count since there’s a tight word limit (650 words). Admissions officers are most interested in your story and voice, so starting the essay right away with your first sentence is perfectly normal and often recommended.
However, some colleges may have separate supplement essays or require you to upload materials as PDFs or Word documents on their own portals (outside of the Common App system). In that case, check their instructions carefully. If they do want a heading, follow whatever format they specify in their application instructions or on their website. Usually, in these rare cases, a simple format with your name, the essay prompt, and the date will be sufficient at the top of your document.
To be sure you’re meeting expectations, glance through each college’s admissions website or their instructions provided in the application. If nothing is mentioned, assume a heading isn’t needed. Focus on making your opening sentence grab attention, since the reader will see your name elsewhere in your application packet. Good luck with your essay! Starting simply and keeping the formatting clean is always a safe bet.
Roger Lopez
Chicago, Illinois
Yale University BA, Political Science | Northwestern Kellogg School of Management, MBA Candidate |
Experience
4 years