How much will a typo in my college essay hurt my chances?

One small typo in your college essay—especially something like a missing letter that doesn't change the meaning of the sentence—is very unlikely to impact your chances of admission. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, and it's understood that small, human errors can occasionally slip through, even after careful proofreading.

Colleges place much more weight on your overall content, voice, and the story you share, rather than perfect mechanics. Even the most seasoned writers sometimes make minor mistakes, and admissions staff know that nobody is perfect. A single typo won't overshadow otherwise strong writing or impressive achievements.

For example, plenty of students have shared stories online about minor typos in their essays. One applicant realized they wrote “definately” instead of “definitely” on their submission to a highly selective school, but they were still admitted. The key is that their essay was authentic and told a clear story about their character and goals.

Of course, it's important to strive for accuracy and polish, but since you’ve already submitted and the rest of your essay was carefully checked, try not to stress. Most admissions officers will see it as a tiny oversight, not a sign you’re careless. If anything, it shows you’re human—just like everyone else.

Next time, to prevent this, consider reading your essay aloud one word at a time, or even asking someone unfamiliar with it to check for errors. But rest assured, this single slip won’t prevent you from being considered seriously. Focus on the great work you’ve already done, and good luck with your application!