What does a 'college level' essay actually mean for applications?
I'm working on my Common App essay and my English teacher keeps telling me it should be a 'college level' essay, but I’m honestly not sure what that means. I’ve written plenty of essays for AP Lang and Lit, but I don’t know if that’s what colleges want to see.
Are they expecting super complex vocabulary and formal structure? Or does it matter more that my voice and story come through clearly? If anyone has examples or tips on how to write something that feels truly 'college level' (whatever that is!), I'd really appreciate it. Sometimes I worry my writing sounds too simple or conversational compared to what colleges are looking for. Any advice from people who already got in or guidance from counselors would be awesome.
Trying to find that balance between showing personality and sounding mature is really tough for me right now.
Are they expecting super complex vocabulary and formal structure? Or does it matter more that my voice and story come through clearly? If anyone has examples or tips on how to write something that feels truly 'college level' (whatever that is!), I'd really appreciate it. Sometimes I worry my writing sounds too simple or conversational compared to what colleges are looking for. Any advice from people who already got in or guidance from counselors would be awesome.
Trying to find that balance between showing personality and sounding mature is really tough for me right now.
1 week ago
•
5 views
Camille L.
• 1 week ago
Advisor
This is a great question, and it’s one that confuses a lot of students! When teachers or counselors talk about a 'college level' essay for college applications, they mean something a bit different than an academic essay for AP Lang or Lit.
A 'college level' admissions essay is much more about authentic storytelling, voice, and self-reflection than about using advanced vocabulary or formal structure. Colleges want to get to know who you are beyond your grades and test scores, so the most important thing is that your personality, values, and perspective come through.
Instead of worrying about sounding overly sophisticated or packing your essay with big words, focus on these key elements:
1. Authentic voice: Your writing should sound like you—honest, thoughtful, and introspective. If you’re naturally conversational, that’s perfectly fine, as long as the essay is well-edited and polished.
2. Depth of reflection: 'College level' often means you can reflect deeply on your experiences. Don’t just tell what happened; show what you learned, how you changed, and why it matters. For example, instead of just recounting an event, take a paragraph to explain how it shaped your thinking or future goals.
3. Clear structure: While you don’t need a traditional 5-paragraph format, your essay should still be organized and easy to follow. Good transitions and a logical flow are important.
4. Strong storytelling: Show key moments or details that make your experience come alive. A well-chosen anecdote or scene can do a lot more than abstract statements.
Here’s an example of a great 'college level' moment: Instead of saying, 'I learned to value teamwork in marching band,' you might describe the night you and your section stayed late reworking a performance, how you navigated a disagreement, and what that taught you about leadership. Then, reflect on how you apply those lessons elsewhere.
For college essays, quality always beats complexity. The best writing is direct but meaningful. If your essay is grammatically clean, reflective, and uniquely yours, it’s very likely to hit the 'college level' mark, even if it doesn’t sound like a research paper.
Don’t be afraid of your own voice! Ask a trusted reader if your essay "sounds like you" and shows growth; that’s a great test of whether you’re in the right zone.
Good luck—you’re not alone in figuring this out, and you’re asking the right questions!
A 'college level' admissions essay is much more about authentic storytelling, voice, and self-reflection than about using advanced vocabulary or formal structure. Colleges want to get to know who you are beyond your grades and test scores, so the most important thing is that your personality, values, and perspective come through.
Instead of worrying about sounding overly sophisticated or packing your essay with big words, focus on these key elements:
1. Authentic voice: Your writing should sound like you—honest, thoughtful, and introspective. If you’re naturally conversational, that’s perfectly fine, as long as the essay is well-edited and polished.
2. Depth of reflection: 'College level' often means you can reflect deeply on your experiences. Don’t just tell what happened; show what you learned, how you changed, and why it matters. For example, instead of just recounting an event, take a paragraph to explain how it shaped your thinking or future goals.
3. Clear structure: While you don’t need a traditional 5-paragraph format, your essay should still be organized and easy to follow. Good transitions and a logical flow are important.
4. Strong storytelling: Show key moments or details that make your experience come alive. A well-chosen anecdote or scene can do a lot more than abstract statements.
Here’s an example of a great 'college level' moment: Instead of saying, 'I learned to value teamwork in marching band,' you might describe the night you and your section stayed late reworking a performance, how you navigated a disagreement, and what that taught you about leadership. Then, reflect on how you apply those lessons elsewhere.
For college essays, quality always beats complexity. The best writing is direct but meaningful. If your essay is grammatically clean, reflective, and uniquely yours, it’s very likely to hit the 'college level' mark, even if it doesn’t sound like a research paper.
Don’t be afraid of your own voice! Ask a trusted reader if your essay "sounds like you" and shows growth; that’s a great test of whether you’re in the right zone.
Good luck—you’re not alone in figuring this out, and you’re asking the right questions!
Camille L.
Nomadic
Stanford University, BAH in Urban Studies
Experience
5 years
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