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University of the Incarnate Word Secondary Application

University of the incarnate word secondary essay prompts, (if you have updated prompts, please submit them at updatesecondaries.com).

Prompts have been updated June 2023 . (Older essays, if available are below)

• Explain your understanding of osteopathic medicine and your interest in pursuing this pathway to becoming a physician. (200 words)
• UIWSOM is the first faith-based school of osteopathic medicine in Texas and mission driven. How will you contribute to the UIWSOM by fulfilling this mission? (200 words)
• Please describe your preparation for the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). Include any tools you may have used to prepare, length of study time, practice exams, etc… (200 words)
• If applicable, please answer the following: (200 words) If you are reapplying to UIWSOM, what have you done to strengthen your application since you last applied?
• Are you a current or former student of the University of the Incarnate Word who falls in one of the categories below? (200 words) – Current MBS Student (2022-2023) – Previous UIWSOM MBS Student – Current UIW Undergraduate Student in Direct Admit Program

Primary Deadline: Usually around Mar 15th Secondary Deadline : Usually around March 15th Secondary Fee : $50 FAP Waiver : Full Fee Waived Casper Required : No PREview Required: No Screens Applications : Yes Accepts Application Updates :

University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine Mission:

UIWSOM’s mission is to empower all members of the medical education community to achieve academic, professional and personal success and develop a commitment to lifelong learning through excellence in learner–centered, patient-focused education, justice-based research and meaningful partnerships of osteopathic clinical service across the spectrum of undergraduate, graduate and continuing medical education. The development and application of osteopathic principles of medicine across four years of physician training will promote culturally, linguistically, and community responsive care for all patients to enhance patient safety and improve patient outcomes.

University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine Vision:

Our vision is to transform learning communities with the ability to impact civic engagement, education, health and health care in the global community.

University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine Values:

Integrity – we aspire to the highest ethical and moral standards in everything that we do, in keeping with the mission of the Sisters of Charity and the University of the Incarnate Word. Stewardship – we safeguard human and economic resources entrusted to us and to use them in a responsible manner. Respect – we embrace diversity, treating all people, cultures, and communities with dignity and fairness. Social Accountability – we are dedicated to research, education and service efforts that respond to the priority health concerns of our communities, particularly those who cannot protect their own interests and are most vulnerable to disparities in health outcomes. Compassion – we demonstrate empathy and sensitivity in all our interactions with others; respond with genuine concern and desire to alleviate suffering and promote social justice. Transformation – we seek to transform our students through service learning and community engagement initiatives that provide opportunities for meaningful interactions and dialogue that advances their perspective of social justice in health and illness. 

Baylor College of Medicine

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Doctor of Optometry

We welcome your interest in the Doctor of Optometry program and the profession.

We seek applicants who show strengths in the sciences, and who bring strong interpersonal and communication skills. We admit students who have already invested time exploring optometry as a career and life choice.

One of The Best Academic Environments For Schools of Optometry In The Nation

The prescribed four-year curriculum is based in the medical model, emphasizing individualized attention and clinical development. The curriculum integrates classroom experience and patient contact, providing early exposure to clinical training captured through community outreach programs, rotations through our clinics and externships in clinical sites both nationally and internationally.

Distinctive features of the curriculum include case-based seminars, grand rounds, problem-based learning, incorporation of educational technologies such as web-based learning, classroom performance system, digital libraries, podcasts and video conferencing.

Opportunities exist for clinical research through our Summer Fellowship Training Program as well as study abroad in Europe.

Application Deadline for Fall 2025 is now June 27, 2024 and will close on May 29, 2025. Standardized Exam Score submission for Fall 2025 admission is due by May 1, 2025.

The typical application cycle for UIWRSO is July - May. Applications are processed as they are received and offers of acceptance are made on a rolling basis . We strongly encourage applicants to apply as early as possible during the application period. This rolling admissions process allows qualified individuals to be admitted on a continual basis until the class is filled.

For an applicant to receive full consideration, the following items must be submitted:

• Official Standardized Admissions Exam scores . UIWRSO recommends applicants complete the Optometry Admission Test (OAT). UIWRSO will also accept the GRE, MCAT and the DAT. The OAT and GRE official scores can be submitted through the OptomCAS application. For more information on these exams, please review the standardized admissions exam section.

All applicants who submit a complete OptomCAS application and official standardized admissions exam scores will receive full consideration for an interview invitation. The initial application review timeline will vary based on the competitiveness of the individual application in comparison to the applicant pool. Invitations for interviews are offered to candidates with the most competitive applications.

Doctors of Optometry (ODs) are the primary healthcare professionals for the eye and visual system. Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases, injuries and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures, as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye.

Doctors of Optometry prescribe medications, provide low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses and perform certain surgical procedures.

Optometrists counsel their patients regarding surgical and non-surgical options that meet their visual needs related to their occupations, avocations and lifestyle.

An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry leading to the Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice.

Optometrists are eye healthcare professionals, state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.

In response to COVID-19, UIWRSO is committed to the health and safety of our employees, current students and prospective students. We recognize the challenges associated with COVID-19 in completing certain aspects of your application (i.e. shadowing, testing, etc.). To best support our prospective and current applicants, we advise the following:

• Apply Early! Given the challenges associated with COVID-19 in combination with our rolling admissions policy, we highly encourage applicants to apply as early as possible within the admissions cycle.
• You can apply while in progress with prerequisite course requirements, standardized testing, letters of recommendation and shadowing hours.
• Prerequisite courses including labs can be taken in an online format provided the course is completed through an accredited institution and passed with a grade of C or better.
• If you have any questions, please contact us for individual admissions advising and/or to schedule a Zoom advising session.

Our admissions team remains available to you during regular business hours, Monday – Friday. You can reach us by:

• Email [email protected] (best option)
• Text (210) 880-6968
• Voicemail (210) 883-1190, ext. 2

Given the unprecedented nature of COVID-19, more changes to the admissions process may be necessary. We are monitoring the situation closely and will update this site in addition to emailing our inquiries and applicant pool with official updates should changes occur.

UIWRSO has a policy of competitive admissions and expectation for academic excellence. In order to apply for admission, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Successful completion of a minimum of 90 semester hours of college coursework from an accredited institution of higher learning.
• A grade of C or better must be achieved in all prerequisite courses.
• A recommended minimum cumulative grade-point average of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
• A recommended minimum overall OAT score of 300. UIWRSO will accept alternative standardized admissions exams including the GRE, MCAT and DAT. More information on these exams can be found in the Standardized Admissions Exam section.
• Two letters of recommendation, one letter must be from a Doctor of Optometry (OD)
• Personal statement conveying interest in and passion for the profession. The essay prompt can be found within the OptomCAS application.
• A minimum of 20 hours of Optometry shadowing with an OD. Work experience will meet this requirement.

All applicants who submit a complete OptomCAS application and official standardized admissions exam scores will receive full consideration. Applicants will be considered for admission on the basis of academic performance as well as nonacademic qualifications. The following criteria will be used in the admissions selection process, in no particular order of preference or weight:

• Overall undergraduate GPA
• Prerequisite and math/science GPAs
• Standardized admissions exam performance
• Ability to handle a diverse and demanding course load
• Written and oral communication skills
• Optometry related experience including shadowing hours, work experience and/or general insight/awareness of the optometric profession
• Extracurricular activities including community service, volunteer work and leadership positions
• Evaluation of character, motivation, initiative and interpersonal skills
• Ability to meet the functional standards as defined by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry

Final consideration for admission takes into account the above academic and nonacademic qualifications along with comments from personal interviews conducted by members of the faculty. Meeting the recommended minimum GPA and standardized admissions exam criteria for application, and being invited for an interview, does not guarantee the applicant admission. The Admissions Committee reserves the right to interview, select and admit students on the basis of these academic and nonacademic qualifications, to ensure a class that is inclusive and academically competitive.

Functional Standards

UIWRSO supports the functional standards for didactic and clinical optometric education, established by the Association of Schools and College of Optometry (ASCO). The purpose of these standards is to identify candidates that possess the appropriate abilities necessary to provide quality comprehensive eye care services to the public. The functional standards represent a set of guidelines in the following areas:

• Observation
• Communication
• Sensory and motor coordination
• Intellectual - conceptual, integrative and quantitative abilities
• Behavioral and social attributes

UIWRSO will consider these functional standards, along with those items listed in the Admissions Selection Criteria section. UIWRSO incorporates these guidelines, along with other established criteria, as standards for graduation from the four-year professional program.

In any case where a student’s abilities in one of these areas are compromised, he or she must demonstrate alternative means and/or abilities to meet the functional requirements. It is expected that seeking and using such alternative means and/or abilities shall be the responsibility of the student. Upon receipt of the appropriate documentation, the school or college will be expected to provide reasonable assistance and accommodation to the student.

Certain chronic or recurrent illnesses, including infectious, psychiatric or substance abuse problems that interfere with patient care or safety are not compatible with optometric practice or training. Other illnesses, such as immune disorders, may lead to a high likelihood of student illness and should be carefully considered. Candidates with questions or concerns about how their own conditions or disabilities might affect their ability to meet these functional standards are encouraged to meet with an optometry school counselor prior to submitting an application.

These standards are as follows:

Admission to UIWRSO requires a minimum of 90 semester hours of coursework from an accredited college or university. Within those credit hours, specific prerequisite courses listed below must be included. Each prerequisite course meets just one requirement. A candidate may apply while in the process of completing prerequisites, however, all requirements must be completed prior to enrollment at UIWRSO.

A grade of “C” or higher must be achieved in all prerequisite courses and all courses must have been completed within 10 years of the first day of classes for the entering student. However, the applicant can furnish evidence to the Admissions Committee of command of current knowledge in topics which do not meet the 10-year criteria.

UIWRSO Required Prerequisites

Additional Requirements for Students Entering Without a Bachelor's Degree

Recommended Courses (Not Required)

All applicants are required to submit a valid standardized test in order to be considered for admission. UIWRSO strongly recommends applicants submit the Optometry Admission Test (OAT). However, UIWRSO will accept any of the following exams:

• Optometry Admission Test (OAT) : The OAT is a standardized multiple-choice exam designed to measure general academic ability and comprehension of scientific information. The OAT consists of four sections including the Survey of Natural Sciences, Reading Comprehension, Physics and Quantitative Reasoning. OAT scores range from a 200-400 with a score of 300 being the mean. UIWRSO recommends a minimum academic average OAT score of a 300. Scores are reported directly to UIWRSO through the OptomCAS application process. For detailed test information, please visit the OAT website.
• Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) : The MCAT is a standardized, multiple-choice examination designed to assess problem-solving, critical thinking and knowledge of natural, behavioral and social science concepts and principles prerequisite to the study of medicine. The MCAT is scored in four sections with each section ranging from 130-170 with a national average score of 150. The total national average MCAT score is a 500. Please contact UIWRSO for instructions on submitting official MCAT scores. For detailed test information, please visit the MCAT website.
• Dental Admission Test (DAT) : The DAT is a multiple-choice test designed to assess applicants’ potential for success. The DAT consists of four sections including the Survey of the Natural Sciences, Perceptual Ability, Reading Comprehension and Quantitative Reasoning. The DAT score range is 1-30 with a national average score of 19. Please contact UIWRSO for instructions on submitting official DAT scores. For more detailed test information, please visit the DAT website.
• Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General Test : The GRE is a standardized three-part exam including verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing. The GRE is designed to measure critical thinking and writing skills. GRE scores range from 130-170 with a national average score of 150 on the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections. The analytical writing score ranges from 0-6 in half point increments with a national average score of 3.5. Scores are reported directly to UIWRSO through the OptomCAS application process. The GRE code for UIWRSO is 4560. For detailed exam information, please visit the ETS GRE website.

Students applying to UIWRSO can submit a maximum of four letters of recommendation but are required to submit a minimum of two letters. UIWRSO requires one letter be from an optometrist who can provide an objective evaluation of your knowledge and understanding of the profession. We recommend the second letter be from a faculty member or academic advisor who can speak to your academic performance and qualifications. We will accept both a composite and a committee letter but these types of letters only count as one letter of recommendation. We will not accept a letter from a teaching assistant.

Only those applicants with the strongest credentials will be invited for an interview. Candidates selected for an interview will be contacted by the RSO Student Affairs team. On the day of the interview, candidates will be personally interviewed by a member of the faculty. Information on the curriculum, clinical experience, financial assistance, housing and student services will also be shared.

Good preparation is always key. A good place to start your interview preparation is with your Career Center on campus. Here you can learn about the interview process from experts who have great experience with effective and professional communication. You might also want to sign up for a mock interview, which are usually available through the career center, as well.

Another great resource for interview preparation is to consult with your Health Professions Advisor or the Health Professions office. They may already be hosting an event for this very topic or they can put you in contact with pre-health students who are preparing for an interview just like you are.

The Admissions Committee reviews the candidate’s complete application portfolio once all application materials have been submitted and after the personal interview has been conducted. Acceptances are offered to the most qualified candidates on a rolling basis. Acceptances may be designated as conditional upon successful completion of requirements.

Those applicants who receive letters of acceptance have two-three weeks to either accept or decline their place in the entering class. Those who accept their place must do so by submitting a matriculation form along with a $1,000 matriculation fee. The full deposit can be split into two payments: $500 is due upon initially accepting the seat in the class and $500 is due by March 1 to confirm the seat. The full deposit is non-refundable. Of the full deposit, $900 will be directly applied toward the student’s tuition. Therefore, accepted students are advised to send their matriculation fee only after they have made a final decision about attending UIWRSO. Students must notify the Director of Admissions if they wish to relinquish a reserved place in the entering class.

Matriculants are required to submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, prior to the first day of classes, fall term, first year. We can utilize verified transcripts sent to OptomCAS to meet this requirement. However, we will need to receive those official transcripts that reflect completion of prerequisites and/or a final graduation date.

Final, official transcript(s) can be sent to:

UIW Document Receiving 4301 Broadway, CPO #304 San Antonio, Texas 78209

Students can also have transcripts sent directly to us through Parchment, eScrip or National Student Clearinghouse. The transcript must be sent from the institution, either via mail or an electronic service (Email: [email protected] ), in order to be considered official.

The UIWRSO endorses the concept that student continuity at a single institution for the duration of the professional degree program is most often in the best interest of the student. Currently UIWRSO does not accept transfer students, including those with advanced standing.

International applications have the option to submit acceptable TOEFL scores if English is not their primary language.

Foreign transcripts are not accepted without an official evaluation from the WES, ECE or other accredited agencies.

Incarnate Word - Secondary Essay Prompts

Access our complete list of all Secondary Essay Prompts from Incarnate Word in San Antonio , TX for the 2018 - 2023 admissions cycles.

1 . Explain your understanding of osteopathic medicine and your interest in pursuing this pathway to becoming a physician.

2 . UIWSOM is the first faith-based school of osteopathic medicine in Texas and mission driven. How will you contribute to the UIWSOM by fulfilling this mission?

3 . Please describe your preparation for the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). Include any tools you may have used to prepare, length of study time, practice exams, etc…

4 . If you are reapplying to UIWSOM, what have you done to strengthen your application since you last applied? (If applicable)

5 . Are you a current or former student of the University of the Incarnate Word who falls in one of the categories below? 1) Current MBS student 2) Previous UIWSOM MBS student 3) Current UIW undergraduate student in Direct Admit program

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2023-2024 University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine (UIWSOM)

• Thread starter PapaGuava
• Start date Mar 15, 2023

The Real PG

• Mar 15, 2023

University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine

purkinjekitty

• Jun 16, 2023

(Same as last year) @PapaGuava All Essay questions have a max word count of 200 words. Essay questions(1-4): 1. Explain your understanding of osteopathic medicine and your interest in pursuing this pathway to becoming a physician. 2.UIWSOM is the first faith-based school of osteopathic medicine in Texas and mission driven. How will you contribute to the UIWSOM by fulfilling this mission? 3.Please describe your preparation for the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). Include any tools you may have used to prepare, length of study time, practice exams, etc… 4. If applicable, please answer the following If you are reapplying to UIWSOM, what have you done to strengthen your application since you last applied? Are you a current or former student of the University of the Incarnate Word who falls in one of the categories below?  

• Jun 18, 2023

email says it will take up to 2 weeks for a committee packet to process as complete in your portal.  

• Jun 22, 2023

OOS, secondary received  

2016med4ever

callieash said: OOS, secondary received Click to expand...

• Jun 27, 2023

bryce4590 said: Does anyone know if the interviews are offered virtually? Click to expand...

MedicalElephant26

Full member.

• Jul 6, 2023

For those who have uploaded a picture to the secondary, does it still show that the page is incomplete? I've been having this problem.  

MedicalElephant26 said: For those who have uploaded a picture to the secondary, does it still show that the page is incomplete? I've been having this problem. Click to expand...

• Jul 7, 2023
• Jul 17, 2023

Anyone know why it says my letters of rec have been received but not accepted?  

deleted1166528

• Jul 18, 2023

ike00 said: Anyone know why it says my letters of rec have been received but not accepted? Click to expand...

Plain-spoken Texan

The secondary complete email states it will take 1-2 weeks for a letter packet to be marked complete. After over 3 weeks, I sent a quick email and they marked me complete 10 minutes later.  

Some questions: While I know UIWSOM screens the primary for the secondary, how extensive is it? What is the chance for a person who received a secondary to get an interview? Can you be kicked out of the app process at any time or do they prefer to do it all at the very end if you don’t get a II (late March)?  

UIWSOM sends out secondaries gradually after closely reading your primary. Some are placed on "hold for a possible interview" but never invited. They interview quite a few. They sometimes give a rejection within a month of an interview, but more commonly after an interview there will be a long stretch of waiting. Last year's thread to peruse: 2022-2023 University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine (UIWSOM)  

wysdoc said: UIWSOM sends out secondaries gradually after closely reading your primary. Some are placed on "hold for a possible interview" but never invited. They interview quite a few. They sometimes give a rejection within a month of an interview, but more commonly after an interview there will be a long stretch of waiting. Last year's thread to peruse: 2022-2023 University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine (UIWSOM) Click to expand...

texaninmed said: Kind of freaking out because I got the email that my primary application was received on 6/16 and that secondaries would be sent within 4 weeks or so, but now its more than a month since and I haven't heard anything about a secondary... should I be worried? Click to expand...

• Jul 20, 2023

Anybody complete yet? My LORs are still incomplete. Ik UIWSOM requires 3 letters. However, when I press where it says LOR on the portal, there's a checkmark for two evaluations, one from a doctor, and one is my HPAC letter, both of which are from AACOMAS. The thing is, my HPAC packet has my other letters attached to it so I have 3+ letters and meet the requirements. Idk if it's not complete since I don't have 3 uploaded separately or if they just didn't check it manually yet.  

sunnyside18

• Jul 21, 2023

I’m in a similar boat, they have everything, I’m just not marked complete yet for a few weeks now.  

MedicalElephant26 said: Anybody complete yet? My LORs are still incomplete. Ik UIWSOM requires 3 letters. However, when I press where it says LOR on the portal, there's a checkmark for two evaluations, one from a doctor, and one is my HPAC letter, both of which are from AACOMAS. The thing is, my HPAC packet has my other letters attached to it so I have 3+ letters and meet the requirements. Idk if it's not complete since I don't have 3 uploaded separately or if they just didn't check it manually yet. Click to expand...

JDO8 said: I submitted my secondary a while ago and got a complete email some time ago. Click to expand...

MedicalElephant26 said: When did you submit your secondary and when did you get a complete e-mail? Click to expand...

• Aug 2, 2023

Submitted my primary July 30 and got the secondary invite before noon on July 31. Just waiting for them to mark my letters complete!  

fluffycat93

• Aug 4, 2023

rosebud13 said: How long did it take you guys to get a secondary? I got an email saying my application is under review, but no secondary yet Click to expand...

• Aug 7, 2023

IS II received! Very grateful.  

purkinjekitty said: IS II received! Very grateful. Click to expand...

II received. 08/07. completed late june.  

Wavin' Howdy 🤠

Rite1234 said: Nice! Congrats!!! Click to expand...

thetedc said: Me too, but I don't see where to schedule it in the portal Click to expand...

I’m tryna be like y’all! Congrats everyone and I hope to join y’all soon!  

purkinjekitty said: Ya, I don't see it either. It will probably show up tomorrow or the next few days Click to expand...

Rite1234 said: I’m tryna be like y’all! Congrats everyone and I hope to join y’all soon! Click to expand...

hopefuldoctorintraining

II OOS!! So excited  

II OOS let’s go guys!  

DoctorRatFink

Congrats to the folks with the ll!!! Does anyone mind sharing when they submitted their secondary?  

thetedc said: Thanks for the reassurance, I was getting paranoid it was a mistake email Click to expand...

DoctorRatFink said: Congrats to the folks with the ll!!! Does anyone mind sharing when they submitted their secondary? Click to expand...

• Aug 8, 2023

Did you all get email notifications about the interview? Or was it just updated in their application website?  

JDO8 said: Did you all get email notifications about the interview? Or was it just updated in their application website? Click to expand...

Jball43 said: I got an email, but it wouldn’t hurt to check their portal. Click to expand...

I think I just got a Pre-II WL email.  

Rite1234 said: I think I just got a Pre-II WL email. Click to expand...

purkinjekitty said: What was the wording if you don’t mind sharing? That’s so strange so early on. Click to expand...

Rite1234 said: Yeah for sure! The email said that my application is still under consideration for an interview but that they are unable to give a II right now (not sure if that means they ran out of allotted IIs for now or if they just didn't like my application for now). It also said that if a date opens up, they might give me a II. Click to expand...

Congrats to all the folks with II’s! Sorry to be that person but, anyone with an II willing to share LM score? Or other stats  

wysdoc said: It's pretty common for this school and a lot of them do get an interview later. Each school has its own style! Click to expand...

rosebud13 said: Should I be concerned that I haven't been invited to complete a secondary yet? I received an email on 7/28 that my application is under review, but no updates since then Click to expand...

Similar threads

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University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine Secondary Essay Prompts

About uiw school of osteopathic medicine.

Secondary Deadline : April 1, 2025 Secondary Fee : $50 FAP Waiver : Yes CASPer Required : No Screens Applications : Yes Accepts Application Updates : Yes

UIWSOM’s mission is to empower all members of the medical education community to achieve academic, professional and personal success and develop a commitment to lifelong learning through excellence in learner–centered, patient-focused education, justice-based research and meaningful partnerships of osteopathic clinical service across the spectrum of undergraduate, graduate and continuing medical education. The development and application of osteopathic principles of medicine across four years of physician training will promote culturally, linguistically, and community responsive care for all patients to enhance patient safety and improve patient outcomes.

Our vision is to transform learning communities with the ability to impact civic engagement, education, health and health care in the global community.

Integrity  – we aspire to the highest ethical and moral standards in everything that we do, in keeping with the mission of the Sisters of Charity and the University of the Incarnate Word. Stewardship  – we safeguard human and economic resources entrusted to us and to use them in a responsible manner. Respect  – we embrace diversity, treating all people, cultures, and communities with dignity and fairness. Social Accountability  – we are dedicated to research, education and service efforts that respond to the priority health concerns of our communities, particularly those who cannot protect their own interests and are most vulnerable to disparities in health outcomes. Compassion  – we demonstrate empathy and sensitivity in all our interactions with others; respond with genuine concern and desire to alleviate suffering and promote social justice. Transformation  – we seek to transform our students through service learning and community engagement initiatives that provide opportunities for meaningful interactions and dialogue that advances their perspective of social justice in health and illness.

Disclaimer: The information on this page was shared by students and/or can be found on the medical school’s website. Med School Insiders does not guarantee the accuracy of the information on this page.

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Common App announces 2024–2025 Common App essay prompts

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, common app essay prompts advice.

Hey! I'm starting to think about my college essays and I'm a bit stuck on which Common App prompt to pick. They all seem to blur together, and I want to choose one that will really let me stand out. What are some tips for deciding on the best prompt for me?

Absolutely, it's a common struggle to decide which prompt to use for your Common App essay. The best advice is to focus less on the prompts and more on what you want to communicate about yourself. The prompts serve as a guide, but it's your story that matters.

Think about significant experiences, values, or achievements that you'd like to share with admissions officers. Consider what you want colleges to know about you -- apart from your grades and test scores. What strengths, personal growth, passions, or meaningful experiences would you love to highlight? Once you know that, you can pick the prompt that best fits your narrative.

For example, if you've had a unique experience that changed your perspective or challenged your beliefs, you might choose Prompt #3: "Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?"

On the other hand, if there's a major part of your life that has been largely influenced by your cultural background, you could choose Prompt #1: "Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story."

One key piece of advice is not to choose topics that are too common, like sports victories, unless you have a unique angle. For example, rather than writing about winning a championship, write about how being on the bench during the majority of the season gave you a unique perspective on teamwork.

Finally, try writing a draft response to multiple prompts. See which response feels most engaging and represents you best. Often, through the process of writing, you'll discover which story feels the most authentic to tell. Happy writing!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

• Faculty & Staff

Freshman writing section

At the UW, we consider the college essay as our opportunity to see the person behind the transcripts and the numbers. Some of the best statements are written as personal stories. In general, concise, straightforward writing is best, and good essays are often 300-400 words in length.

Please note that the UW essay questions must be answered within our application. For the Common App, that means within our UW questions. We do not consider the Common App essay.

Essay prompt [required]

Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.

Maximum length : 650 words

Short response [required]

Our families and communities often define us and our individual worlds. Community might refer to your cultural group, extended family, religious group, neighborhood or school, sports team or club, co-workers, etc. Describe the world you come from and how you, as a product of it, might add to the diversity of the UW.

Maximum length : 300 words

Tip :  Keep in mind that the UW strives to create a community of students richly diverse in cultural backgrounds, experiences, values and viewpoints.

Additional information about yourself or your circumstances [optional]

You are not required to write anything in this section, but you may include additional information if something has particular significance to you. For example, you may use this space if:

• You have experienced personal hardships in attaining your education
• Your activities have been limited because of work or family obligations
• You have experienced unusual limitations or opportunities unique to the schools you attended

Maximum length : 200 words

Format for the essays

• Content is important, but spelling, grammar and punctuation are also considered.
• We recommend composing in advance, then copying and pasting into the application. Double-spacing, italics and other formatting will be lost, but this will not affect the evaluation of your application.
• We’ve observed most students write a polished formal essay, yet submit a more casual short response. Give every part of the writing responses your best effort, presenting yourself in standard, formal English.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread!

Tip :  Write like it matters, not like you’re texting. This is an application for college, not a message to your friend. Get some hints in the video:

All writing in the application, including your essay/personal statement and short responses, must be your own work.  Do not use another writer’s work and do not use artificial intelligence software (ChatGPT, Bard, etc.) to assist or write your statement.

Per Washington state law and University of Washington policy , all admissions staff are mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect. Any statements in written materials that give admissions staff reasonable cause to believe abuse or neglect of someone under the age of 18 may have occurred must be reported to Child Protective Services or the police. Learn more about University reporting requirements . 

If you or someone you know is a survivor of sexual assault or other sexual misconduct, RAINN is a national hotline that provides support and referrals. Call 800.656.4673 or visit the website for a chat option. For individuals who have experienced domestic violence or intimate partner violence, the National DV Hotline offers phone, chat, and text options for support.

UC Essay Prompts 2024-2025: Tips for Success

It’s November, and you’re hunched over your laptop staring at the UC application portal. You’ve already hit submit on your GPA and test scores. But then, you scroll down to the part labeled “Personal Insight Questions.” That’s when the real work begins. You know these UC PIQs matter — big time. These are your chance to show the admissions team who you are beyond your grades and numbers.

Over 200,000 students apply to UC schools every year, all competing for the same spots. The UC essay prompts are what will make you stand out. 

The good news is you’ve got options. With 8 prompts to choose from, you get to select the 4 that let you share your unique experiences, whether it’s how you lead, your creative side, or how you’ve handled challenges. The prompts may seem tricky, but with some thought and the right approach, you can use them to show the real you. 

Let’s get started.

UC Personal Insight Questions: How Does It Work?

When you’re working on your UC application, the PIQs are where things start to get real. The University of California system wants more than just your grades and test scores — they want to know who you are. 

That’s where these UC essays come in. Here’s the deal: the UC PIQs give you the chance to share experiences and qualities that don’t fit into numbers or transcripts. They want to know what makes you unique, and this is your chance to tell them. If you're struggling and considering to pay for paper writing , EssayPro is here to assist.

You’ll choose 4 out of 8 prompts , and each of your responses can be up to 350 words long. You have some flexibility here, which is great. You get to decide which prompts allow you to share the most about yourself.

The purpose of these UC essays is simple, too: they let the admissions team see the real you. These essays are a way to highlight personal stories, accomplishments, and qualities that may not show up in other parts of your application. Maybe you’re great at organizing community events, or perhaps you’ve developed a talent for solving complex problems. Whatever it is, the UC PIQs help you show that off in a way that numbers just can’t.

• Choose 4 out of 8 prompts. You can mix and match which ones resonate with you most.
• Word limit? 350 words per response. It’s short, so make every word count.
• No pressure, but this is important. Your UC PIQs are a big part of how the admissions team will evaluate you. So, spend time choosing the prompts that give you the best shot to stand out.

Key Deadlines

For Fall 2025 admission:

• Application opens: August 1, 2024
• Submission window: October 1 – December 2, 2024
• You can start early, but the final deadline to submit is December 2, 2024, at 11:59 PM PST . Don’t cut it close: give yourself plenty of time to review and edit your essays before submitting!

Here’s what to keep in mind when you're figuring out how to write UC essays: don’t overthink it. Focus on authenticity and specific examples . Admissions officers have seen it all, so skip the clichés and get real. You don’t need to have climbed Mount Everest or cured a disease — talk about what you’ve learned, how you’ve grown, and what matters to you. 

UC Essays, Handled

EssayPro’s pros make writing UC essays easy. You pick the prompt, we do the rest.

What’s Your Goal on Your UC Application?

When writing the UC essay prompts, keep your goal clear: you want to stand out in a good way. This means showing the admissions team how you're different from other students applying from your school or community. 

But it’s not just about being different; it’s about demonstrating that you’ve made the most of the opportunities you’ve had. 

Most importantly, you want to connect your experiences to the key points of comprehensive review. Show them not just what you’ve done, but how it’s shaped who you are and what you’ll bring to UC.

If you’re wondering, “Who can write my admission essay ?” , EssayPro has the expert writers you need. 

How to Prepare for a UC Essay

Getting ready for the UC essay prompts can feel overwhelming, but there’s a process to make it manageable. Here’s what you need to do:

• Understand the prompts : First, take some time to really go through all eight UC personal insight questions. Read them carefully and see which ones spark ideas or memories. The goal is to show who you are outside of your grades, so think about moments that highlight your personality and experiences.
• Pick the right prompts : You only need to choose 4 out of 8 PIQ prompts, so pick the ones that let you show off different sides of yourself. Maybe one prompt is perfect for talking about a leadership role, while another lets you explore your creative side or how you overcame a tough situation.
• Brainstorm ideas : Now’s the time to start jotting down ideas. Think of specific events or experiences that answer each prompt. Did you lead a project at school? Help a sibling with a challenge? These real-life examples make your essays stronger and more relatable.
• Reflect on what you learned : Don’t just write about what happened. Focus on how these experiences shaped you. How did they change your perspective or teach you something important? This is where your essays will stand out, by showing not just what you did, but how it impacted you.
• Outline before you write : A simple outline can help you organize your thoughts. Think intro, main example, reflection, and a strong ending. This way, when you start writing, you’re not staring at a blank page trying to figure out where to begin.
• Be real and specific : Skip the vague stuff like “I’m a hard worker” or “I overcame challenges.” Get into the details. What exactly did you do? How did it feel? Why does it matter to you? These specifics will make your essay stand out from the generic answers other students might write.
• Edit, revise, repeat : Don’t worry if your first draft isn’t perfect — it’s not supposed to be. Write it all out, then come back to it with fresh eyes. Tighten things up, cut out the fluff, and make sure your essay is clear and engaging. And remember, each essay should show a different side of you.

Lastly, manage your time. These essays are important, so don’t leave them until the last minute. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and revise. Trust me, when you see your polished UC PIQs, it’ll be worth it!

UC Essay Prompts: Questions & Guidance

When it comes to the personal insight questions, the key is to be yourself. These questions are designed to let you express who you are, what matters to you, and what you want to share with the UC admissions team. 

Our guidance for each question is here to help if you get stuck, but ultimately, it’s about showing your personality. These essays aren’t about giving the “right” answer — they’re about giving your answer. 

So, take the time to reflect on your experiences and write in a way that feels true to you.

1. Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.

Whether you were a team captain, a mentor to someone younger, or simply the one who took charge when things needed to get done, leadership can come in many forms.

• Focus on a key moment: Think about a time when things didn’t go as planned and you had to step up. Maybe your group project was falling apart, and no one was taking charge, so you organized a plan and assigned roles. 
• Emphasize teamwork and delegation: Leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself. Did you ever lead a group where you had to rely on others? Talk about how you delegated tasks and trusted your team to handle their parts. 
• Reflect on personal growth: A true leadership experience leaves you different from how you started. Did leading a group teach you something new about patience or compromise? 

Example Scenarios:

• Perhaps you spent hours figuring out how to help your younger sibling with math, finding creative ways to explain concepts. 
• Or maybe you were in charge of a group of kids at a summer camp and had to teach them a complicated dance routine. You worked through frustration, found a way to motivate everyone, and got the job done.

The key to answering UC prompts is to find a moment that highlights your leadership skills, but more importantly, shows who you are when things aren’t easy. 

2. Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

Creativity isn’t just about art or music — it’s how you solve problems, think differently, and come up with new ideas. Whether it’s inventing a clever solution, thinking outside the box, or creating something unique, this UC personal insight question is your chance to show how your creative side works.

• Think beyond traditional creativity: Creativity can show up anywhere: organizing an event, fixing a broken gadget, or finding a new approach to a school project. It’s about how you approach problems and bring fresh ideas into everyday situations.
• Be specific: Focus on a real moment when your creativity came through. Did you figure out a unique solution when things went wrong? Or bring new energy to a project that needed help?
• Highlight impact: Show how your creative thinking made a difference. Did it improve something? Help others? Solve a problem no one else could?
• When your family’s Wi-Fi crashed, you used a backup router and created a temporary fix to keep everyone connected during an important meeting.
• You turned a boring class presentation into an interactive quiz game, getting your classmates excited and engaged in the lesson.

3. What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?

We all have something we’re naturally good at or something we’ve worked hard to master. This UC PIQs prompt is your chance to talk about that talent or skill that really sets you apart and how it’s grown with you over time.

Need inspiration? Check out Common App essay prompts examples for ideas on how to present your best self.

• Focus on passion and dedication: Maybe you were always great at playing the guitar, but after years of practice and attending workshops, you’re now composing your own music. Show the journey, not just the result.
• Demonstrate how it helps others: Think about how your talent impacts others. Maybe your skill in graphic design led you to help classmates design their own posters or even create logos for local businesses. 
• Tie it to future goals: Your skill likely plays a role in what you want to do in the future. Maybe your love for math led you to tutor struggling classmates, and now you dream of becoming a math teacher or an engineer. 
• You’ve always been the one fixing tech problems at home, ever since you were a kid who loved tinkering with gadgets. Over time, this talent grew, and now you’re helping classmates troubleshoot their devices or leading a tech club at school.
• Writing has always come naturally to you, but over the years, you’ve turned it into something bigger. From writing short stories in your free time to leading the school newspaper, your love for writing has helped you express yourself.

4. Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

These UC personal insight questions are all about how you made the most of a great opportunity or pushed through a challenge that could have held you back. Whether it’s something positive or an obstacle, it’s about your growth and perseverance.

• Focus on how it changed you: Did you get into a special program or face a real struggle in school? Share how the experience made you grow. Did it build your confidence, teach you something new, or change the way you see things?
• Be detailed: Don’t just mention the opportunity or barrier — get into the story. What steps did you take to succeed or overcome? What was difficult about it, and how did you push through? Show the real effort you put in.
• Show your perseverance: If it was a barrier, focus on how you didn’t give up. Maybe you struggled with a subject or had to balance work and school, but through hard work and determination, you found a way to succeed.
• You got accepted into an advanced STEM program that allowed you to work in a lab with real scientists. The hands-on experience not only deepened your love for science but gave you a real sense of direction for your future.
• English wasn’t your first language, and school was tough at first. You took extra classes, practiced every day, and eventually became confident enough to join the debate team and even help other students struggling with language barriers.

5. Describe the most significant challenge you have faced and the steps you have taken to overcome this challenge. How has this challenge affected your academic achievement?

Challenges can shape who we are, and this UC essays prompt is about sharing a tough experience, how you handled it, and how it affected your academic path.

• Lean into the emotional side: Challenges shape who you are. Maybe your challenge was balancing school and taking care of a sick parent, and it felt like you had to grow up faster than your friends. Share how this situation pushed you emotionally.
• Step-by-step process of overcoming it: Big challenges can seem impossible when you’re in the thick of them, but breaking them down makes them feel more manageable. Did you ask for help? Change your study habits? Find a new way to manage your time?
• How it shifted your perspective: Did this challenge change the way you approach education or life in general? Did it push you to work harder? Help you develop new skills? Make you more focused?
• When a family member became seriously ill, you had to take on extra responsibilities at home, which was a huge adjustment. You had to learn how to balance taking care of things at home with keeping up in school. 
• You’ve struggled with dyslexia for years, making reading assignments especially tough. But instead of letting it hold you back, you worked with a tutor, used new study techniques, and developed strategies to excel in your classes.

6. Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

We all have that one subject that really sparks something in us. This UC prompts question is your chance to talk about what gets you excited about learning and how you’ve taken that interest beyond the classroom.

• Make your excitement jump off the page: When you talk about your favorite subject, don’t just say you love it — show it. Maybe you remember the first time you mixed two chemicals in a lab and saw an unexpected reaction. Let your passion leap out.
• Show your dedication outside of class: Passion doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Maybe you spend your weekends watching YouTube tutorials on astrophysics. The fact that you go out of your way to learn more on your own.
• Connect it to your bigger dreams: If your passion for a subject is shaping your future, explain how. For instance, maybe your love for environmental science has led you to take action — perhaps you started a local initiative to clean up your community.
• You’ve always been fascinated by the human body. In class, you soaked up everything about cell biology, but it didn’t stop there. You volunteered at a local hospital, shadowing doctors and learning about how different systems work in real-life medical cases. 
• You love reading about historical events, but you’ve taken it further by starting a history club at school. Outside of class, you’ve attended local history lectures and even wrote an article on a lesser-known historical figure for the school newspaper.

7. What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

This UC essay prompts question is about showing how you’ve made an impact. It’s not about grand gestures — sometimes, the small things you do make the biggest difference.

• Focus on small actions with big impact: You don’t need to have led a massive change to make a difference. Maybe you noticed that your school didn’t have enough after-school activities, so you started a debate club. 
• Share your motivation: What inspired you to act? Maybe growing up, mental health was a topic that was never discussed in your household, so when you saw classmates struggling, you wanted to create a safe space for them. 
• Show the ripple effect: Did your efforts continue to make a difference even after you moved on? Did it improve the environment around you? Bring people together? Solve a problem?
• Noticing the lack of a proper recycling system at your school, you took the initiative to start one. You gathered a group of volunteers, worked with the administration, and got it up and running. 
• You saw a need in your local community during the pandemic, so you organized a group to deliver groceries to elderly neighbors. This simple act of kindness made a big difference for people who couldn’t safely leave their homes.

8. Beyond what has already been shared in your application, what do you believe makes you a strong candidate for admissions to the University of California?

Here’s where you can get a little personal. These personal insight questions let you share something that hasn’t come up yet in your application but still plays a big role in who you are. 

• Share a story that really matters to you: Think about something that’s helped shape your character but hasn’t fit into the other questions. Maybe you’ve spent years caring for a grandparent, and through that experience, you’ve learned about patience.
• Focus on qualities that set you apart: You don’t need to list more achievements. Instead, focus on what makes you tick. Maybe you’re the person who always brings people together, whether it’s organizing a game night for friends or starting a project.
• Connect it to the UC community: Think about how these qualities will help you thrive at UC. If you’re passionate about environmental activism, share how you can’t wait to join UC’s sustainability initiatives and continue making an impact.
• You’ve always been shy, but working at a local bookstore over the summer pushed you out of your shell. Now, you’re more confident in speaking up and taking initiative — skills that will help you thrive in UC’s collaborative environment.
• Growing up in a bilingual household, you’ve developed a deep appreciation for different cultures and languages. This has sparked a passion for global studies an

Common Mistakes to Avoid in UC Essays

Here are some common mistakes students often make when answering the personal insight questions (PIQ prompts) for the University of California. 

1. Mistake: Being too vague

Why it’s a Problem: General statements like “I’m a hard worker” don’t give admissions officers much to go on.

How to Avoid It: Be specific! Instead of saying you worked hard, describe a time you overcame a challenge or pushed through something difficult.

2. Mistake: Rehashing your resume

Why it’s a Problem: Simply listing your activities won’t show who you are beyond the numbers.

How to Avoid It: Use the PIQ prompts to tell a story. Instead of saying you volunteered, talk about a meaningful experience you had while volunteering and how it shaped you.

3. Mistake: Lack of reflection

Why it’s a Problem: Describing what happened without reflecting on what you learned misses the point.

How to Avoid It: Focus on how the experience changed you. Did it make you more empathetic, resourceful, or confident? Admissions officers want to see how you’ve grown.

4. Mistake: Choosing the wrong prompts

Why it’s a Problem: Picking prompts that don’t resonate with your experiences can make your essays feel forced.

How to Avoid It: Choose PIQ prompts that allow you to show different sides of yourself. Think about which moments in your life best illustrate your values, strengths, and growth.

5. Mistake: Trying to impress instead of being real

Why it’s a Problem: Writing what you think the admissions team wants to hear can come across as inauthentic.

How to Avoid It: Be yourself. Authenticity shines through. Share real stories and moments that genuinely matter to you, even if they seem small. They’ll resonate much more.

The UC essay prompts give you the chance to show the real you — beyond your grades and test scores. Don’t stress too much, just be yourself and tell your story. With a bit of thought and reflection, these essays can help you stand out and show the admissions team what makes you unique. 

You’ve got this!

Your UC Essays, Done Right

EssayPro writers make your UC essays shine. No stress, just results!

How to Write UC Essays?

What are uc essays looking for, how to make a uc essay stand out.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Recommend a Tutor/Student Office Assistant
• Request In-Class Writing Support
• Work at the WLC
• Writing and Learning Center

Our services at the WLC are for current students taking undergraduate courses at UIW's Broadway campus. You may come to the WLC to receive help on assignments for any of your UIW undergraduate courses. You may also come in to discuss writing that is not for a particular class (e.g. scholarship essays, personal statements, etc.). If you need help with writing for a graduate course, you will need to visit the Office of Research and Graduate Studies .

Additionally, all UIW students have access to Brainfuse, a supplemental online tutoring service available in  Cardinal Apps .

There are no additional costs for tutoring; our services are included with your tuition.

At the WLC, we do accept walk-ins, but only if a tutor happens to be available when you come in. Because of this, we recommend you make an appointment ahead of time to ensure a tutor will be available. During busy times, such as midterms and finals, we highly encourage scheduling an appointment a few days in advance.

To schedule, you can visit us in the Student Engagement Center in room 3167 or call us at (210) 829-3870. Be ready to give your name, student ID number, information about what you wish to work on, and the best times you are available. Alternatively, you can email this information to the WLC at [email protected] to request an appointment.

You can also schedule your own appointment through Cardinal Apps . Open EAB Navigate and select the "Get Assistance" button to begin the scheduling process. For more detailed instructions, please see our Self-Scheduling Guide .

You will work with the tutor to help expand ideas, incorporate research, identify errors, brainstorm, and ensure your work is well-organized and follows the prompt. If it is your first time coming to the WLC or Tutoring Services for the current semester, the tutor will have you sign a small sheet outlining the Tutoring Services and WLC policies and roles of tutors and tutees.

No! We hire writing tutors from a range of majors, including business, the sciences, nursing, and the humanities.

If you need help with a specific kind of writing, like writing for business or science, or with a particular format, like APA or Chicago, please contact us to schedule. Our tutors come from a range of disciplines, and our front desk team will work to put you with a tutor who has experience with your particular type of writing or format.

You may certainly request a specific tutor. If scheduling with the front desk, you can mention the tutor's name, and our front desk team will check that tutor's availability. If self-scheduling, you will be able to select your preferred tutor and book your session(s) with them. In case your preferred tutor is unavailable, you are welcome to see if another tutor is available at a time that works for you.

You must be present and play an active role in the tutoring session. Part of our process is having a conversation with you and supporting you as a writer; therefore, we cannot simply edit or proofread your paper.

Our tutors can meet with you at any part of the writing process, from brainstorming in the beginning to citing at the end. You are more than welcome to bring in whatever work or ideas you have so far.

You may schedule up to two writing sessions ahead of time. Once you attend a session, you are welcome to schedule additional appointments. You are welcome to schedule two hour-long appointments back-to-back. Educational research shows that extended sessions are not optimal for learning; therefore, we ask that you take a small 10-15 minute break after the first session.

Tutoring sessions are typically scheduled in one-hour blocks; however, you are welcome to schedule a thirty-minute session if an hour is not needed. You can use as much of the time as you need.

Yes, you are welcome to schedule a group session. Be ready to give the number of students who will be attending, information about what you wish to work on, and the best times you are available. Note: If you are writing a group paper, it is ideal to have all members present. Because the writing session is an interactive process, our tutors will only be able to fully review parts of the paper that were written by those in attendance.

To get the most out of your session, please be ready to access your syllabus, your professor's prompt, the assignment sheet, and any other information that you think is important for your work.

We understand things happen that may make you late for a session. In these cases, we ask that you please notify us, or the session may be released to other students 15 minutes after the start time.

To cancel or reschedule, you may call us at 210-829-3870, see us in person, or send us an email. Be ready to give your name, student ID number, and the appointment day and time. To make appointments available to other students, we ask that you give us at least two hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Any session canceled without at least two hours' notice will be counted as a no-show.

We ask for at least two hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, or your session will be counted as a no-show. This is to help us ensure that appointments are available for other requesting students. We do understand that things sometimes come up, and you may not always be able to give two hours' notice, so you are allowed up to four no-shows per semester. After five no-shows (including appointments with Tutoring Services), you will not be able to make appointments for the remainder of the semester; however, you will be able to drop in for writing sessions, as available.

If you need tutoring outside our business hours, we recommend Brainfuse. Brainfuse is an online tutoring service available to all UIW students and can be found in Cardinal Apps .

We hire writing tutors who are motivated, responsible, and ready to support UIW undergraduate students throughout the writing process, regardless of the students' skill level. Working at the WLC will give you the chance to be a positive influence on students and to enhance your own writing and leadership skills. Students who would like to apply to become a writing tutor must have a 3.0 or higher GPA. To apply, please submit an application, two faculty recommendations, a sample of your academic writing, and an unofficial transcript. For more information, visit the Work at the WLC webpage or contact the Program Leader for the Writing and Learning Center, Charlie Briggs, at [email protected] or (210) 283-6326.

Our printers may only be used for writing or content tutoring sessions. You may print your paper before or after the session. If you have not had a tutoring session and you need to print your paper, you may go to the library or the Media Center (ground floor of the Student Engagement Center).

You are welcome to use our computers if one is available. You can log into them using your UIW credentials (first part of UIW email and password).

You are welcome to bring snacks and drinks with you into the WLC. We ask that you please be discreet, keep your area clean, and use caution around the computers. We have napkins available if you need them.

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Undergraduate Admissions

Deadline Update: We want to ensure anyone applying for federal financial aid has enough time to make an informed decision regarding their college choice! For this reason, we're extending our enrollment decision deadline to May 15.

Writing Prompts for First-Year Applicants

Following are our writing prompts for first-year students applying for fall 2025 admission. Writing prompts for fall 2024 will be announced in August.

Major-Specific Prompts

You'll answer two to three prompts as part of your application. The questions you'll answer will depend on whether you're applying to a major or to our undeclared program , and if you've selected a second choice . Each response should be approximately 150 words . If you're applying through Common App, you'll find our major-specific writing prompts in the "Writing" tab of our supplemental questions after adding us as one of your colleges.

If You're Applying to a Major :

• Explain, in detail, an experience you've had in the past 3 to 4 years related to your first-choice major. This can be an experience from an extracurricular activity, in a class you've taken, or through something else.
• Describe your personal and/or career goals after graduating from Illinois and how your selected first-choice major will help you achieve them.

If You're Applying to Our Undeclared Program in the Division of Exploratory Studies:

• What are your academic interests? Please include 2-3 majors you're considering at Illinois and why.
• What are your future career or academic goals? You may include courses you took in high school and how these impacted your goals.

If You've Selected a Second-Choice Major (Including Undeclared ):

• Please explain your interest in your second-choice major or your overall academic or career goals.

Essay Prompts

You'll also answer one essay prompt as part of your application. Prompts are the same whether you apply through myIllini or the Common App. Select and answer the prompt of your choice from the full list found on the Common App website . Your essay response can be anywhere from 250 to 650 words total.

Want more info?

University of Notre Dame Supplemental Essay Prompts 2024-2025

Students applying to the University of Notre Dame can submit their application through the Common Applica tion , the Coalition Application on Scoir , or the QuestBridge Application . QuestBridge applicants are not required to submit the Common Application or the Coalition Application. The supplemental essays for Notre Dame consist of one short essay question and three short-answer responses to questions you choose from the provided options.

Essay Prompts

Prompt: Everyone has different priorities when considering their higher education options and building their college or university list. Tell us about your “non-negotiable” factor(s) when searching for your future college home.

Word Limit: 150

Please choose three questions from the options below:

Prompt: How does faith influence the decisions you make?

Prompt: What is distinctive about your personal experiences and development (eg, family support, culture, disability, personal background, community, etc)? Why are these experiences important to you and how will you enrich the Notre Dame community?

Prompt: Notre Dame’s undergraduate experience is characterized by a collective sense of care for every person. How do you foster service to others in your community?

Prompt: What compliment are you most proud of receiving, and why does it mean so much to you?

Prompt: What would you fight for?

Word Limit: 100 words each

Curious about what factors Notre Dame values in applicants?

Explore university of notre dame admissions statistics , free masterclass, the top school admissions formula.

Table of Contents

University of pennsylvania supplemental essay prompts 2024-2025, unc chapel hill supplemental essay prompts 2024-2025, university of illinois at urbana-champaign (uiuc) supplemental essay prompts 2024-2025, university of washington supplemental essay prompts 2024-2025, university of virginia supplemental essay prompts 2024-2025.

• UNC-Chapel Hill: Admission Statistics 2024
• Ohio State: Admission Statistics 2024
• North Carolina State: Admission Statistics 2024
• University of Connecticut: Admission Statistics 2024
• Duke: Admission Statistics 2024
• Northwestern University: Admission Statistics 2024
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign: Admission Statistics 2024
• University of Washington: Admission Statistics 2024
• UC Santa Barbara: Admission Statistics 2024
• Purdue University: Admission Statistics 2024
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• Theses Dissertations

Theses, Doctoral Projects and Dissertations

Deadlines and reminders.

Students in programs that require completion of a culminating project, including a thesis, doctoral project, or dissertation, must meet these deadlines for submitting such work for clearance:

• Spring Degree Conferral - March 1
• Summer Degree Conferral - July 1
• Fall Degree Conferral - Oct. 1

If the due date falls on a weekend, the submission is due the next regular weekday. Processing may take up to three weeks, depending on the volume of submissions. Student work submitted after the deadlines may not be reviewed in time to meet the degree conferral deadlines established by the UIW Registrar.

Review these steps before you submit your thesis, doctoral project, or dissertation for clearance.

Please ensure that your document has been prepared according to UIW style requirements and the editorial style standards of your academic discipline. All writing issues should be resolved before submitting for final review.

Writing support for graduate students : Experienced writing development specialists are available to help with all aspects of the writing process. In-person and online assistance is available to UIW master's, doctoral, and professional students and UIW faculty members. To schedule an appointment with a writing specialist, visit WCOnline or email  [email protected] .

Please read the instructions for preparing and submitting documents below and visit the Library's Copyright, Publication, and Licensing page for additional information on preparing and submitting your document.

Discuss hiring a professional editor with your mentors. Your mentors can help clarify which areas of your writing would benefit from expert help. Reminder: You are solely responsible for the contract and all contract details you make with an editor. Any information provided by the Office of Research and Graduate Studies about editors is neither an endorsement of an editor nor a guarantee of any level of service to the student.

Best Practice for Talking to an Editor : Before you contact an editor, decide on the scope of work needed and make a flexible timeline. To help the editor perform efficiently and quickly, it is best to be as precise as possible about your area or areas of need. You must provide the editor with your discipline's most recent document formatting guidelines and the relevant UIW format guides.

Do you have questions or concerns about any aspect of the document formatting and publication process? For further assistance, please email  [email protected] .

Submission cannot begin until your mentors  finalize your defense approval , including approval of its written materials. Once this step is reached, you can start the submission process.

To submit, first create an account at  The Athenaeum . Do not create more than one account!  Next, follow the screen prompts to complete your submission (a request for publication) and finish by uploading your document. Dissertation (PhD) writers must also create an order for the ProQuest repository using UIW's ProQuest ETD Administrator tool.

If your project is under the oversight of the UIW Human Research Protection Program, go to the Guide to the UIW IRB Process page  and look under the "After Approval" section for instructions on closing your research protocol. Research protocols must be closed before clearance will be given.

Students completing a research dissertation in a PhD degree program should complete the Survey of Earned Doctorates available here: National Science Foundation’s Survey of Earned Doctorates . After completing the survey, email a copy of the completion certificate to the Office of Research and Graduate Studies .

Preparing and Submitting Documents

Theses, doctoral projects and dissertations must be submitted to UIW's repository of scholarly works, The Athenaeum . Before receiving final approval, these documents must be wholly and carefully formatted according to UIW and discipline style requirements. Select the appropriate category below for more detailed document formatting and submission instructions.

All students who write a thesis, doctoral project, or dissertation as partial fulfillment of their degree requirements must submit an electronic copy to The Athenaeum . The Athenaeum is the University's repository of scholarly work, supported and maintained by the Mabee Library. Dissertation (Doctoral) writers, in addition, must use UIW's ProQuest ETD Administrator tool to deposit a copy of their dissertation into the ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global database.

The policies governing theses, doctoral projects, and dissertations are presented in the Culminating Projects Policies and Procedures section of the Graduate Catalog. These policies include:

• Enrollment requirements
• The formation and composition of committees
• Student and faculty member responsibilities
• Deadlines for format review submission
• The document submission and review process
• The clearance process
• Student rights and responsibilities as owners of the copyrighted material
• University distribution, reproduction, and archival rights to these materials

Students format their thesis, doctoral project or dissertation according to style guide recommended for their subject area. Adherence to the appropriate style guide ensures that a student's work is prepared correctly and ready for deposit into UIW's institutional repository, The Athenaeum , and in the case of dissertations also deposited into UIW's ProQuest ETD Administrator .

Enrolled UIW students may view and download document style guidelines, template pages and other helpful items in the Office of Research and Graduate Studies Canvas page .

Summary of Document Submission Requirements

Students must prepare electronic documents for review and publication; do not make print copies. When your project is ready for review, submit documents to The Athenaeum .

The University of the Incarnate Word requires all student scholarly work to be entirely and correctly formatted before depositing into The Athenaeum and, for dissertations, into UIW's ProQuest ETD Administrator . The student document must be approved and formatted according to discipline publication standards and all additional UIW formatting requirements.

Review is precisely that — it is not a content or grammar review. The student and committee are responsible for the document's content, citation integrity, writing mechanics, and adherence to applicable regulatory requirements.

When your document is ready, visit The Athenaeum to create an account and submit it.

Log into the Office of Research and Graduate Studies Canvas page for detailed instructions about submitting your document to The Athenaeum.

Deadlines for submitting finished theses, doctoral projects and dissertations to the Office of Research and Graduate Studies for format review:

• March 1 for degree conferral in May
• July 1 for degree conferral in August
• Oct. 1 for degree conferral in December

If a submission due date falls on a weekend, the submission is due the following Monday. Allow at least three weeks for format review to be completed. Student work submitted after the deadlines may not be reviewed in time to meet the graduation deadlines set by the UIW Registrar. View the Academic Calendar for deadlines and other important information.

Reminder: All research protocols must be closed before a student can graduate. For information on the IRB closure process, visit the Office of Research and Graduate Studies  Human Subjects Research page.