The 2026-2027 Common App Essay Prompts Explained Every year I get questions from parents and students about the Common App essay prompts. Which prompts do colleges like most? Does my student need to write about a challenge? Will it hurt my chances if I select Prompt 7, the "catch-all"? Here's the short answer: It doesn't matter which prompt you choose. As a college essay coach, I have worked with more than 100 students applying to colleges across the United States. One of the

Last summer, I spoke with Mollee Francisco at Edina Magazine about the challenge that college applicants face to craft personal statements that are both authentic and outstanding, all in just 650 words. I think her piece sums up a lot of what's special about the essay writing process, and why I love guiding students through it. You can check out the article here: https://edinamag.com/college-application-essays-are-an-introspective-journey/. And read on for the rundown of the

Brainstorming unique ideas and crafting a compelling story are two of the toughest tasks in the college essay process. So, what can you do to tackle both at once? Join a small group of motivated students who are also writing their college essays! Being surrounded by other students, new ideas, and a strong community of scholars–not to mention an expert college essay coach to guide you through the writing process– is exactly what you need to stay on track to writing an incredib

It may be October, but this is no trick: The early college application deadline of November 1 is less than one month away! Every year,...