The time has finally come for the future class of 2027! The Common App essay topics for 2022-2023 are finally out - and spoiler alert - they are almost identical to last year's! There will be seven essay prompts for college applicants in 2022-23, just like there have been in previous years. The student college essays are still relegated to 650 words. This is the ideal time to make a strong impression with admissions (or even write a compelling fan letter to Rihanna). As far as we're concerned, this is the perfect opportunity.
Since we are committed to providing you with the most up-to-date and comprehensive essay guidance available anywhere on the internet, we have compiled this guide to assist you with the seven essay prompts.
Prompt #1: The Background Essay
Some students believe they must include their background, identity, or talent to make their application appealing. If this sounds like you, please share your story.
This essay prompt has been around for years and provides all the flexibility an applicant could ask for, with just enough direction to start those creative ideas flowing. Remember the following keywords when brainstorming: background, identity, interest, and talent.
Ask yourself this question when answering this common app essay prompt. What aspects of your background, character, interests, or achievements should you bring to an admissions officer's attention?
You can discuss the struggle you went through migrating to a foreign country or something as small as watching an episode on a television show. For this prompt, it is critical that your perspective is unique to you and who you are as an individual.
Prompt #2: The Setback Essay
You've had your share of obstacles in your life. Share one of your own. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from these challenges? The lessons we learn from adversity can significantly impact our future success.
Essays on overcoming challenges are most effective when they focus on solutions rather than problems. Hence in this essay, your positive attitude towards these obstacles should be your primary focus. You should demonstrate resilience, determination, and humility in this prompt.
Prompt #3 The Challenger Essay
Reflect on a time in your life when you questioned an idea or belief. What made you challenge this idea or opinion? What was the outcome?
This is one of the most challenging topics to answer. You will need to speak passionately about ideologies, which might be tough to condense into compact pieces. You can talk about a time when you stood against the old-fashioned perception of feminism. Try and be creative as possible.
Prompt #4 The Gratitude Essay
Reflect on a random act of kindness that made you thankful or happy. How has gratitude motivated you?
This prompt allows you to reflect on an event that made you appreciate the significance of gratitude. Also, reflect on moments in your life when you've been recognized and appreciated.
Prompt #5 The Accomplishment Essay
Discuss an event or accomplishment that inspired you to focus on your personal growth and helped you understand yourself or others.
The most important keywords for this prompt are transformation, growth, and understanding. You will need to discuss something that helped you understand the world and yourself better.
Prompt #6 The Passion Essay
Share a concept that always sparks your interest. Why does this topic captivate you? What do you do when you want to learn more?
This prompt should reveal something you find engaging, more like your passion. If you're interested in studying history, you might want to discuss a field that shows how far your exploration of the topic truly reaches.
Prompt #7 Topic of Your Choice
Write an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be your own design or one that discusses a different prompt.
Even though this prompt seems general, it would be best to avoid focusing on your test scores and transcripts. Instead, focus on your leadership skills or your unique talents.
The Bottom Line
Every student can find a story to tell in response to one of these prompts with a bit of creativity and effort. Remember that admissions look for a glimpse of your character, values, interests, and passions. So, gather your experiences, rekindle your creative core and start writing your college essay.