common app transfer essay prompts

What are the 2024-25 Common App essay prompts?

Feb 28, 2024 knowledge, information, below is the full set of essay prompts for 2024–2025..

• 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.
• The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
• Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
• Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
• Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
• Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
• Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

We will retain the  optional community disruption question  within the Writing section. Over the next year, we'll consult with our member, counselor, and student advisory committees to ensure we gather diverse perspectives and make informed decisions.

Common App Transfer Essay Examples

Common app transfer essay — introduction.

If you’re considering transferring colleges , you’ve likely started thinking about your college transfer essay. At CollegeAdvisor, we’re here to fill you in on the Common App transfer essay, as well as the overall transfer application process. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the college transfer essay. We’ll also provide you with some Common App transfer essay examples and other transfer essay tips. 

Additionally, we’ll go over:

• What a college transfer essay is
• How to craft a strong Common App transfer essay
• College transfer requirements at top schools
• Other transfer essay tips

Understanding the College Transfer Essay

The college transfer essay process differs a bit from the essay process you likely went through as a first-year applicant. Instead of writing one Common App transfer essay that you’ll send to every school, each college transfer essay is school-specific. In fact, some colleges don’t even include a college transfer essay in their application requirements—though most selective institutions do. 

To help you prepare, we’ve gathered a variety of sample transfer essays from top schools nationwide. We hope these Common App transfer essay examples help you feel confident as you begin crafting your own college transfer essays. 

In our guide, we’ll look at transfer essays that worked from the following colleges:

• Emory University
• Wesleyan University
• University of Southern California (USC)
• University of Miami

But before we look at a sample transfer essay, let’s get back to basics: what is a college transfer essay? 

What is a college transfer essay?

Put simply, a college transfer essay is an essay you’ll write as part of the college transfer process. At their core, most Common App transfer essay prompts will ask a similar question: why do you want to transfer to our school? 

This prompt is similar to the “why school” essays you likely encountered as a first-year applicant. However, with transfer students, colleges may look for a bit more detail. 

Your Common App transfer essays should try to address the following: 

• Why do you want to transfer to this particular school? What programs and offerings attract you to this institution?
• What makes you unique, and why will you enrich the campus community at your new college? 
• Why was your former college not the right fit for you, and why is this college a better place for you to pursue your goals?

Of course, you should never outright speak negatively about your current college in your Common App transfer essays. However, your college transfer essays should clarify why you and why your next school will be a better fit than your current one. 

Later, we’ll look at some Common App transfer essay examples in more detail. Keep the questions above in mind as you read our sample transfer essays. While there’s no universal Common App transfer essay prompt, there are many similarities in the transfer college essays for different colleges. Reading different college essays that worked and sample transfer essays can prepare you for any Common App transfer essay prompts you encounter. 

Common App Transfer Essay Requirements

Unlike in the first-year application process, transfer students using the Common App won’t submit a single personal statement to every school. Instead, students will use the Common App for transfer—that is, the version of the Common App designed for transfer students. Each school specifies application requirements within the Common App for transfer; that’s where you’ll find any Common App transfer essay requirements. It’s also where you can select specific programs within your desired schools.

Moreover, not every college will have a standard transfer essay format. Rather, you might find different prompts, word counts, and other requirements for different transfer applications. With that said, you can likely repurpose a certain amount of information from your college transfer essays for different schools. 

Additionally, note that not every college where you may want to transfer will use the Common App. While the Common App has over 1,000 member institutions at the first-year level, around 600 colleges use the Common App for transfer. So, you should always check each college’s application requirements. Some schools may also use the Coalition Application. Schools like UIUC , UMiami , and USC will all have their own transfer essay requirements. 

Next, let’s take a closer look at transfer application requirements. Then, we’ll look at some sample transfer essays and discuss different college essays that worked. 

Understanding Transfer Application Requirements

In general, most colleges will ask for a similar set of transfer application requirements. These include: 

• The Common App transfer application  
• A writing supplement, including your college transfer essay(s)
• Standardized test scores, though some colleges remain test-optional
• Official college transcript
• Dean’s/College’s/Registrar’s Report
• College instructor recommendations (2)
• Official high school transcript

As you begin the transfer application process, make sure you’re prepared for these requirements. Additionally, while you may or may not submit a full resume when you apply to college, it’s good to have one on hand. 

Staying Engaged on Campus

Note that as a transfer student, colleges will pay attention to how you’ve used your time on your original college campus. So, to increase your admissions odds at top schools, you should earn high grades and engage in various extracurricular activities. Even if you don’t want to complete your college experience at your current school, you should still make the most of your time there. 

On some of your college transfer essays, you might be asked to discuss an extracurricular activity or engagement. You won’t see this kind of prompt in most of our transfer essay examples. However, you should be prepared to discuss your involvement on campus in your college transfer essays. Colleges want to see that you’re an engaged member of your community. 

Common App Transfer Essay Prompts

Next, let’s take a look at some Common App transfer essay prompts and review some transfer essays that worked. 

As we’ve discussed, students won’t all answer one Common App transfer essay prompt. Instead, you’ll respond to a different Common App transfer essay prompt for each school. However, as you’ll notice from our collection of transfer essays that worked, college transfer essay prompts tend to be similar. 

Comparing Some Common App Transfer Essay Prompts

To begin, let’s look at the Common App transfer essay prompts from Harvard University: 

• Briefly, please indicate the most influential factors in your decision to attend your present college (for example, location, cost, size of student body, only option, special program offered, Early Decision plan, etc.) 
• What alternatives to transferring to Harvard are you considering?
• Please indicate your field of specialization and briefly outline your academic plans at Harvard College.
• What are your current postgraduate/career plans?
• Briefly discuss one book that has strongly influenced you.

As you can see, if you apply to Harvard as a transfer student, you’ll have to write several college transfer essays. In our college transfer essays that worked, successful students make the most of every Common App transfer essay prompt. 

Notre Dame transfer essay prompt

Remember, each of your college transfer essays offers the admissions team a chance to learn more about you. So, you should make the most of every one of your Common App transfer essays. Regardless of the college transfer essay format, view each college transfer essay as a chance to teach your reader something new. 

While we won’t see Common App transfer essay examples from Harvard here, we’ll read sample transfer essays from other competitive colleges. You can apply these transfer essay tips to any college transfer essay. 

Let’s take a look at another Common App transfer essay prompt—this time, from Notre Dame.

Unlike Harvard, Notre Dame does not ask students to complete a collection of Common App transfer essay prompts. Instead, when it comes to college transfer essays, Notre Dame just asks for one thing :

“a well-crafted personal statement explaining your interest in Notre Dame, your academic and professional goals, and how transferring to Notre Dame can help you achieve them.”

Clarifying your academic goals.

You might notice one similarity between the Common App transfer essay prompts for Notre Dame and Harvard. Both schools ask you to have a clear sense of your academic and professional goals. 

As a first-year applicant, your choice of college major matters less than it does as a transfer applicant. In fact, in some cases, the major you indicate will have little to no bearing on your admissions odds. However, as a transfer student, colleges expect you to have some sense of your future goals. In light of that, you should be able to articulate your future college major in your college transfer essays. 

When you read our Common App transfer essay examples, you’ll notice the authors clearly explain their academic and future goals. This allows the writers of our sample transfer essays to clarify why a given school meets their academic needs. 

Look for these strategies in our UMiami essay examples, USC transfer essay examples, Emory essay examples, and other college essays that worked. Now, let’s dig into some targeted transfer essay tips and read some great Common App transfer essays. 

College Transfer Essay — Emory Essay Examples

Let’s start by reviewing Emory essay examples from accepted transfer students. By reading these Common App transfer essay examples, you can learn more about how to approach the college transfer essay process. 

Here’s our Emory transfer essay example: 

Emory Transfer Essay Example

My time at Texas Christian University has been an orienting and insightful experience. Despite the brevity of my stay, I grasped a better understanding of the type of qualities that I desire from a college. In addition, I gained new perspectives, forged relationships, and made memories that I’ll cherish for life. The decision to apply to Emory was made with careful consideration, but ultimately with confidence. While I will always be grateful for my experience at TCU, I’ve concluded that Emory is where I can thrive academically and socially.

I took a medley of courses during my first semester at TCU to ensure that I chose my path with confidence. Comparative Literature was the major I was searching for. It allows me to channel my desires for a diversified education, and pairs well with my ardor for foreign languages.  Unfortunately, despite the enthusiasm, it isn’t offered at TCU, but it is at Emory. However, the ability to pursue Comparative Literature may have drawn me to Emory, but it was the breadth of the academic curriculum and resources that helped me to conclude that it was the right school for me.

The breadth of the curriculum itself covers a broad range of topics ranging from Post-Colonial Literature to “Love & Sex in the Italian Renaissance.” I would truly be able to get a diversified education through a host of interesting topics. Attending Emory would allow me to supplement my education with curriculum outside the classroom, allowing me to enrich my educational experience. Through the thesis during senior year I could gain insight from conducting intense exploration on a subject I deeply care about.

As a research assistant I conducted research on Horace Walpole’s influence in early British Parliament. Through this, I learned how to organize and structure knowledge, how to communicate and how to be a more attentive and critical interpreter of history. Those are the kind of skills I want to amplify and Emory’s focus on Undergraduate Research would give me support for that in spades. I could also have fun attending poetry readings, symposiums, and film screenings. In terms of my major, the depth of the classes and the sheer possibilities enabled by Emory’s academic resources would truly allow me to make the most of my education at Emory.

What stands out about Emory for me and makes it so desirable is the intimate approach in the faculty-to-student relationship. Engaged professors who genuinely care for the wellbeing of the student is the type of setting fostered at Emory and would allow me to flourish as a student.

Diversity, not just in race, but in socioeconomic status, sexual orientation and most importantly, perspective, both academically and socially, is the type of variation fostered at Emory. This is the type of college experience I want as I’ve learned that only through differences can intellectual curiosity truly be fostered.

Emory’s location would allow me the amenities of Atlanta without having to forego a traditional college experience. I could try authentic Persian food one night and go karaoke the next. Art is a personal hobby of mine and I can foresee many art crawls given Atlanta’s vibrant art scene. Of course, a visit to Emory’s own Michael C. Carlos museum would be due first.

Beyond the city, Georgia is host to a myriad of beautiful landscapes. I could hike at Tallulah Gorge or enjoy the scenic view at Amicalola. Emory’s active campus life would also mean weekends filled with prominent guest-speakers and exploring new hobbies. What I appreciate about Emory is the balance between academics and social life because while college is a place to learn, it is also a place to make memories.

I’ve never regretted my time here. I simply exhausted all the available resources and it’s my responsibility to go where I can flourish as a student in every sense, and this place for me, is Emory University.  

Why This Essay Worked

Successful Emory essay examples will specify what makes Emory the right place for an applicant. This essay does just that. Moreover, it offers a great example of a common college transfer essay format. Namely, it describes why the student wishes to transfer while detailing what makes Emory the perfect fit for them. 

As one of our Emory essay examples, the writer of this sample transfer essay makes it clear why Emory is the right fit for them. First, the writer describes how they’ve used their time at TCU to gain a sense of their academic interests and goals. They then clarify how, in this journey of self-discovery, they have realized why TCU isn’t the right place for them. 

This sample transfer essay then uses specific examples of why Emory would be a better fit. They mention specific courses, programs, and other offerings. This sample transfer essay also highlights why Atlanta would be a better college setting for this student than Fort Worth. Strong Emory essay examples will be specific—that is, they’ll discuss particular programs and offerings only found at Emory. 

Overall, this transfer essay example excels at describing who this student is, why they wish to transfer, and how they’d leverage Emory’s resources. 

Next, let’s look at some more transfer essays that worked—namely, a successful Wesleyan essay. 

Wesleyan Essay — Transfer Essays That Worked

Next, let’s dig into another one of our Common App transfer essay examples. Like the first of our Common App transfer essay examples, the essay below includes detailed and specific information about how the writer will thrive at their new institution. 

Our next transfer essay example is for Wesleyan . Let’s take a look at the essay and explore why it stood out to Wesleyan admissions:

Wesleyan Transfer Essay Example

My need for academic diversity marks the first reason behind my desire to transfer. The reality is that there is a disproportionate emphasis placed on business and natural sciences at my current college. While these majors deserve merit, the situation here translates to a lack of the same quality of opportunities and resources for the humanities. I realized that I need a setting where every academic field is equally regarded because it is in these types of environments that intellectual curiosity is truly fostered.

While I spent my initial months as a pre-major, I took a medley of courses to ensure that I chose a path I was genuinely passionate about. I am unable to pursue my academic desires here, but at Wesleyan, I can. My first year of college helped me to narrow down my want for a cosmopolitan education. During a class, I was introduced to literary and post-colonial theory and discovered a new passion. I want to pursue certification in Social, Cultural, and Critical Theory for a diversified education, and with the interdisciplinary coursework at Wesleyan, I could do so. With intense courses and guidance from caring faculty, Wesleyan would allow me the strong and intimate academic foundation that I desire.

Wesleyan has what I am looking for and am unfortunately unable to find at my current school: enthusiasm for languages. I possess a passion for foreign languages and with Wesleyan’s orientation intense curricula for foreign languages, I would have a supportive environment. While I am currently taking 2 languages, I hope to pursue Arabic language and culture, and in addition, live in the Turath Program House. Foreign languages are usually regarded as a side-study but with the open curriculum and programming at Wesleyan, I could allow foreign languages the space in my academic schedule that it deserves. 

My first year made me realize how I took diversity for granted. Diversity, not just in ethnicity, but in socioeconomic background, sexual orientation, and most importantly, perspective, is the type of representation I want on a campus. Wesleyan truly reflects the concept of equal opportunity in every sense. Coming from a background where food stamps were normalized and then moving to a school where most of the student body comes from the upper socioeconomic trend has been eye-opening.

The notion that there is a disparity in resources and experiences between polar financial levels is swept under the rug here. I appreciate that Wesleyan not only acknowledges but acts towards lessening the gap by providing resources and opportunities to low-income/first-gen families. It’s this type of effort that will allow those without equal access to have the stability for their academic merits to shine through.

Wesleyan’s location also offers me the scenic nature-based and intimate small-town vibe that I desire. While I love Fort Worth, the climate, people, and attractions in Middletown would fit me better. Whether I’m hiking at Cockaponset or attending a play by ArtFarm with my friends, I would get the college experience that I desire without foregoing an intimate college community. 

Why this essay worked

While this Common App transfer essay prompt isn’t in use anymore, this Wesleyan essay answers a standard question: why do you wish to transfer, and why Wesleyan? 

Once again, the writer of this transfer essay example gives reasons why their current school isn’t the right fit. They express their desire for more academic, cultural, racial, and social diversity than is available on their current college campus. Many college essays that worked discuss diversity and inclusion; this Wesleyan essay writer showcases how they’ll enrich their future campus community. In doing so, it gives Wesleyan admissions officers a strong sense of the student’s values. 

Additionally, this Wesleyan essay uses specific details to show what makes Wesleyan the right fit for this student. In particular, this sample transfer essay describes in detail the writer’s passion for studying languages. The writer details how they would use Wesleyan’s resources to explore this passion. 

In reading this essay, the Wesleyan admissions team can see clearly how the student would make use of Wesleyan’s resources. 

Like our other Common App transfer essay examples, this Wesleyan essay illustrates why the writer wishes to transfer. At the same time, it emphasizes how they would make the most of their new institution. 

USC Transfer Essay Examples

Let’s move on to more college transfer essay examples and take a look at some USC transfer essay examples. We hope these Common App transfer essay examples help you prepare to craft your own essays. 

In the 2021 admissions cycle, the USC transfer acceptance rate was about 26% according to the USC admissions office. While USC does not widely publicize the USC transfer acceptance rate, it’s generally reported as around 24-26%. In other words, you can assume that the USC transfer acceptance rate is relatively low. That means you should do all you can to prepare your transfer application ahead of the USC transfer deadline. Note that the USC transfer deadline is February 15th for most programs. 

Overall, the USC transfer requirements are similar to those for other schools. They include the Common Application, your high school transcript, and your college transcript. Some academic programs require additional letters of recommendation, portfolio materials, and other supplements. You’ll complete the USC college transfer essays through the Common App. 

USC Transfer Essay Examples — Long Answer

The USC transfer requirements will vary by major. However, regardless of additional USC transfer requirements for certain programs, you’ll need USC college transfer essays.

Unlike the rest of our transfer essay examples, the USC transfer essay examples also include short answer responses. So, in addition to the main USC college transfer essay, you’ll find some short-form USC transfer essay examples below. 

Let’s start with the main USC transfer essay: 

USC Transfer Essay Example

The feature that appeals the most to me about USC is the zeal that the English department displays. It was the amount of English-oriented events that hooked me and the quality of them that finally reeled me into USC’s shore. Numerous poetry readings, prominent guest speakers, and enthusiastic organizations geared towards English would help immensely with supplementing my learning experience. The cherry on top is the study abroad program entwined with English, allowing for total immersion into the culture and subject.

These types of academic opportunities are integral to making the most of my studies. Furthermore, I would be remiss to not acknowledge the world-class faculty at USC’s English department. What USC presents is an academic environment where the ardor I have for English is matched. It’s a community where college isn’t viewed as a method of job placement but a place to foster intellectual curiosity.

Socially, my current school has been full of learning experiences as I navigated a social scene that starkly contrasted against the ones I grew up with. However, I knew this was a common experience and stayed optimistic. I dabbled in clubs, finding some that piqued my interest, and rushed a sorority before discovering what I wanted to direct my time and effort towards.

While I opted out of Greek life, I did find organizations and people on campus that I enjoyed, such as Spectrum (LGBTQ+) and Hall Crew, an organization geared towards dorm-community bonding. However, some contemplation allowed me to recognize that the people I had gravitated towards drew me in due to a recurring sentiment: my desire for a more diverse setting.

When the word “diversity” is mentioned, people naturally assume ethnicity. While this factor is an important component in the multi-faceted topic of diversity, it isn’t all-encompassing. My current school has helped me realize that diversity, not just in race, but in sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and most importantly, perspective, is a necessary aspect of a college environment. Attending USC would give me a chance to experience the kind of diversity I crave; a campus comprised of students from all over the globe would ensure this. 

The first of our USC transfer essay examples indicates exactly what attracts this applicant to USC. In this sample transfer essay, the writer describes their interest in USC’s English program and why it would fit them. As you read this transfer essay example, you can imagine this student thriving on USC’s campus. 

Once again, like other transfer essays that worked, this transfer essay example shows why the writer was dissatisfied with their college. However, it doesn’t dwell on the negatives—instead, this sample transfer essay looks forward to the writer’s goals at USC. 

To make the most of your USC essays, make sure you draft them well ahead of the USC transfer deadline. This gives you enough time to polish your essays and make sure they highlight your strengths. Transfer essays that worked are often initially written well before the deadline and revised several times.

USC Transfer Essay Examples — Short Answer

Next, let’s take a look at more Common App transfer essay examples—namely, the short answer USC transfer essay examples: 

1. What is the most fun you’ve had lately?

On the Fourth of July, I braved the scorching heat at Six Flags over Atlanta, my favorite childhood vacation spot. I got drenched on Thunder River, lost my voice on Goliath, and won a giant stuffed Pokemon in a ball toss game. As the sun set, I admired the fireworks while devouring two plates of food at the all-you-can-eat buffet.  

2. If you had to give yourself a nickname, what would it be?

After joining the middle school swim team, I discovered that I was a terrible diver and would always painfully belly flop into the water. I begged my parents to let me volunteer at the library instead. While watching the librarian’s favorite movie, “Ella Enchanted,” she affectionately shortened my name to Ella. I moved the next summer, so the nickname always evokes nostalgia for my hometown. 

3. What are three things you don’t care about at all?

The difference between white and yellow onions (I use them interchangeably in my recipes.)

The iOS versus Android debate (I have a Galaxy phone and a Macbook.) 

The correct way to hang toilet paper (I keep the rolls in a cabinet to hide them from my two mischievous cats.) 

4. Describe a situation in which you didn’t get something you felt you deserved.

With plans to diversify the fundraisers and collaborate with community partners, I campaigned to be UNICEF Club president my junior year of high school. I was excited to be more involved in the organization I had volunteered with for years. Unfortunately, I had to miss the election day to receive my green card and was ultimately not selected.

5. What do you see as the physician’s role in Public Health? Please answer the question in 150 words or less.

Especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, I see physicians as educators and advocates for their communities. While conducting research and volunteering at my local food pantry, I saw how the pandemic led to rising medical misinformation and mistrust and exacerbated barriers to accessing healthcare. When unemployment soared in March 2020, I noted the strain on clients at the local food bank, who struggled to afford groceries, utilities, and medical bills. I believe that physicians should advocate for increasing access to affordable healthcare, from expanding subsidized coverage to lowering surprise medical bills.

As a Research Assistant, I discovered that a quarter of the rural patients with HIV in our study believed that COVID-19 vaccinations were dangerous or linked to autism. Through creating trusting relationships and supportive environments, I believe physicians can guide patients to make informed health decisions that optimize their clinical outcomes. 

Why these essays worked

Like any college essays that worked, these USC transfer essay examples showcase what makes the writer unique. The best Common App transfer essay examples clearly demonstrate the writer’s personality and how they’ll enrich their next college campus. 

Remember, every college transfer essay gives you the chance to tell the admissions team something new about you. Certainly, these short answer responses follow a different college transfer essay format than our longer Emory essay examples or the Wesleyan essay. However, they manage to include a lot of valuable information in a limited number of words. 

Let’s look at the last of our transfer essays that worked—our UMiami essay examples. 

UMiami Essay Examples — College Transfer Essay

Next, we’ll dig into UMiami essay examples to get a better understanding of college essays that worked. 

Here’s one of our UMiami essay examples from an admitted transfer student:

UMiami Transfer Essay Example

I took a medley of classes to ensure that I chose my major with confidence, which led to my decision to apply as an English major and Modern Language and Literature minor to UMiami. I hope to study Japanese and Arabic, along with French if my schedule permits. Beyond the depth, rigor, and range of the courses themselves, the sheer breadth of the programming would allow me to supplement my education with a curriculum outside the classroom. Both the English and the MLL department have enthusiastic programming ranging from lectures given by prominent guest-speakers, friendly gatherings, and study abroad programs that would really allow me to make the most of my education.

I fully intend to pursue research as well, as my time as a research assistant has fostered my passion for knowledge and discovery in the humanities. The experience will also help me while I pursue the Departmental Honors Program in English Literature. Beyond purely academic resources, the intimate approach to advising and the close faculty-to student ratio is what drew me to UMiami. The dedication to providing students with resources like research grants, internships, and career connections is the type of care that I want. I learned that while the right academic environment is important, support is essential to thrive not only as a student, but as a person.

Socially, UMiami leaves nothing left to be desired. I could take a stroll on the beach or finally get to try the famous Cafecito. The active campus itself would mean opportunities to discover new hobbies or make new memories with friends. I want to be able to look back fondly at the memories I made in college and UMiami would allow me to do that. I would also love to start a Dream Outside the Box chapter at UMiami as my experience with this organization geared towards better access to education has been profound and I am a staunch believer in bettering local communities first.

In the last of our Common App transfer essay examples, the writer includes specific details about why UMiami is the right place for them. 

Once again, the writer of this sample transfer essay delineates what UMiami offers that their current college does not. Successful UMiami essay examples will be specific to the school. So, as you read UMiami essay examples like this one, look for ways to link your interests to the school’s offerings.

In this transfer essay example, the writer outlines the specific programs, foreign languages, and offerings that they plan to pursue at UMiami. They also include specific details about the college’s location and culture. These details make obvious their interest in the institution and the time they’ve taken to research their (prospective) future home.

Understanding the UMiami Transfer Acceptance Rate

In general, transfer acceptance rates are not widely published online—the UMiami transfer acceptance rate is no different. While it’s generally reported to be around 50%, students should still assume that the UMiami transfer acceptance rate is relatively competitive . To put it another way, don’t take the UMiami essay for granted. After all, UMiami is one of the best colleges in Florida, so admission is never guaranteed. 

By now, we’ve read UMiami essay examples, Wesleyan essays, and other transfer essays that worked. We hope you now have a better understanding of what makes a successful college transfer essay. Next, let’s dig into some more transfer essay tips to help you succeed. 

How is a college transfer essay different?

Overall, the transfer application process is slightly different from the first-year application process. As you’ve likely noticed in our successful transfer essay examples, most transfer essays look rather different from standard personal statements. 

When applying as a transfer student, admissions officers want to know why you’ve decided to transfer and what interests you about their school. They also want to learn about your educational plans (including your choice of major) and your career goals. 

Similar to our transfer essays that worked, college transfer essays often revolve around an applicant’s character as a student and future professional. Compare this to a Common App personal statement, which usually focuses on who you are as a person. Clearly, your academic and career pathways matter a bit more as a transfer student. 

Of course, you should take every opportunity to show the admissions committee what makes you unique. However, you should also ensure you include specific details about what makes your future academic program a better fit. 

College Transfer Essay Format

In general, most schools use a similar college transfer essay format. The Common App transfer essay prompts you’ll find will also often have some similarities. Most schools will ask students to state their reasons for transferring and explain why they’ve chosen to apply. 

As you approach this type of prompt, think about:

• The major you’d like to pursue
• Academic programs that are not available at your current school
• Important differences between your current campus community and the school where you’re applying

Word counts will vary by school, so always check each institution’s requirements. You should also read each Common App transfer essay prompt carefully to ensure you follow the right format. 

You can also write an initial college transfer essay and adapt different sections to suit different prompts. However, you should always include specific details about how you plan to spend your time at your next college. 

Additional Transfer Essay Tips

We’ve looked at some successful Common App transfer essay examples. Next, let’s review three transfer essay tips to help your essays shine:

• Be specific. Tailor each college transfer essay to your chosen school, even if you start with the same basic details about yourself. Make sure you indicate specific things that school offers that you can’t find at your current institution.
• Keep it positive. As a transfer student, it might be tempting to write negatively about your current school. However, focus instead on what your current school has taught you about yourself and prepared you to succeed elsewhere.  
• Be thorough. Your college transfer essays are one of the few chances you get to address the admissions committee on your own terms. Make the most of the word count to highlight who you are and how you’d enrich their campus. 

We hope these transfer essay tips give you confidence as you approach the college transfer essay process. 

Other CollegeAdvisor Essay Resources to Explore

As we’ve discussed, while there are some key differences, writing a college transfer essay is relatively similar to writing a first-year admissions essay. For more transfer essay tips, check out some of our other resources below:

• AO Advice: How to Write Great Supplemental Essays That Stand Out — In this webinar, our former Admissions Officers share how to write supplemental essays that shine. 
• Columbia Essay Examples — This guide includes several successful essays from Columbia University and explains what made them work. 
• Editing Your Supplemental Essays —  This webinar walks you through the process of editing your Common App transfer essays to make them strong, clear, and concise. 
• How to Write a Personal Statement — Read more college essays that worked and learn expert tips to make yours unique. 

For more guidance, you can also check out Carnegie Mellon’s tips on writing strong Common App transfer essays. Amherst also offers useful tips, including a successful Common App transfer essay. Finally, Moorpark College has a great slide deck featuring some advice on the UC transfer process. 

If you’re certain about transferring but unsure about where you want to go, we can help. Our three-part College Finder series covers the college search process, making a college list , and comparing colleges . Although many of our free articles are aimed at first-year applicants, their advice is broadly applicable. They can help you figure out how to frame your college transfer essays or research where you want to go.

College Transfer Essay — Final Thoughts

In this article, we walked you through different sample transfer essays and Common App transfer essay prompt responses. Additionally, we offered some transfer essay tips to help you write the strongest college transfer essays you can. We hope our Common App transfer essay examples help you feel more confident as you navigate the transfer application process. 

If you want more support as you complete your Common App transfer essays, we’re here to help. Click here to schedule a consultation with our Admissions Specialists. We’ll help you learn more about how CollegeAdvisor can help you maximize your admissions odds.

This article was written by Abbie Sage. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Common App Essay Prompts 2024-25

May 9, 2024

The folks at the Common Application have officially announced that the Common App essay prompt menu for the upcoming 2024-25 admissions cycle will remain exactly the same as it was the previous year. In the opinion of the College Transitions staff, the decision to stay the course was a wise one. A quick look at the data shows that the prompts, as presently constituted, received rave reviews across the board—more than 95% of admissions officers, guidance counselors, parents, and students rated the selections positively.

Common App Essay Prompts for 2024-25

In addition to breaking down the 2024-25 Common App essay prompts, we will also take a look at:

• What’s new in 2024-25?
• The Additional Information Section & COVID-19 essay
• The Common App essay word limit
• The most popular Common App prompts
• How to choose a prompt
• Advice on brainstorming/writing your Common App essay
• Links to supplemental essay prompts for 50+ colleges

What’s new for 2024-25?

Absolutely nothing! This is a good thing. The Common App seems to have found an array of topics with something to offer just about everyone. In 2022, they altered Prompt #4 to include an invitation to talk about gratitude, a welcome addition to the crazy pandemic-impacted world in which we found ourselves for so long. Otherwise, the prompts have stayed the same for the last several years.

The Additional Information Section & COVID-19 Optional Essays

If you need space beyond the Common App personal statement to discuss extenuating circumstances or provide essential context, there are two optional spaces available to you: the Additional Information section and the COVID-19 essay, the latter of which as been slightly re-branded as the “Community Disruption” prompt.

In the Additional Information section, you have 650 words at your disposal to discuss everything from research projects to long-term illnesses to academic situations. You can learn more about how—and whether to—utilize this section in our blog: Should I Use the Common App Additional Information Section?

For the Community Disruption prompt, you have 250 words to write about COVID-19, a natural disaster, or any other external force that has impacted your health and well-being, family circumstances, safety, and education.  For tips on whether to/how to best utilize this space, check out our blog on the topic — How to Answer the COVID-19 Question on the Common App.

We want to stress that both of these spaces are completely optional and you should only utilize them if you absolutely need to.

What is the Common App essay word limit?

The Common App essay word limit remains at 650 words. There is also a minimum floor of 250 words. Wondering how much to write? We recommend shooting for between 500-650 words.

2024-25 Common App Essay Prompts

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.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Let’s break each of these down in turn…

Common App Essay Prompt #1

Many students have a particular aspect of who they are that they feel incredibly connected to. This could be their racial or cultural background, sexual or gender identity, religious affiliation, athletic or artistic talent, or intellectual interest. If you answer this prompt, whatever you choose should be so integral to who you are that you can’t imagine writing an essay on any other topic.  In addition to describing the background, identity, interest, or talent you choose, you’ll also want to reflect on why it’s so important to you.

Common App Essay Prompt #2

Essentially, this prompt is asking you to discuss a time when things didn’t go according to plan. Perhaps it was a project that failed, a parent’s unexpected illness, or a personal barrier, to name a few. Note that the Common App wants you to reflect on two questions: 1) how the situation affected you and 2) what you learned. As such, you’ll want to approach this question with a solid degree of self-awareness. How have your experiences enabled you to grow?

Common App Essay Prompt #3

Ah, the classic “how do you handle conflict” question. The conflict you discuss can be internal or external, meaning that you can discuss a struggle within yourself or one with another person (or group of people). If you choose to discuss an internal conflict, it will be important to provide some background information (where did this belief or idea come from?) before you launch into what changed your mind and how that change ultimately impacted you. Alternatively, if you choose to discuss an external conflict, especially if its between you and another person, you’ll want to ensure that you’re being as tactful as possible when describing the ins and outs of the situation.

Common App Essay Prompt #4

This prompt is the newest of the seven, and is now on its third cycle in the Common App prompt rotation. With this question, we’ve noticed that it is common to focus on the “someone” who has made you happy or thankful rather than the impact of gratitude , which is what you want to hone in on. Accordingly, what does “gratitude” mean to you? How has the gratitude you’ve gained from this particular situation changed or influenced you? What are you doing differently in your life as a result?

Common App Essay Prompt #5

Some key words and phrases here: “personal growth” “realization” and “new understanding.” We’ve all had experiences in life that bring significant clarity, whether in regard to ourselves or others. Perhaps you had an “a-ha” moment about a long-term struggle, enjoyed a major accomplishment that changed you in an important way, or attended an event that stirred a newfound interest. Whatever you choose, you’ll want to make sure and reflect on why your accomplishment, event, or realization of choice is so important to you.

Common App Essay Prompt #6

This prompt could best be described as the “intellectual curiosity” prompt. If that’s the quality you want to make sure to showcase on college applications, this prompt could be an excellent option. Questions to consider as you brainstorm: what topics keep you up at night? What sends you down a Google or Wikipedia rabbit hole? What could you research, write, read, or talk about for hours? (You likely won’t need to think too hard about what this subject is!) Once you have your subject, think about why it interests you so much as well as how you like to learn about it. Ideally, this essay will reveal more about your intellectual passions as well as your preferred learning style.

Common App Essay Prompt #7

The sky’s the limit here, as long as your topic is personal and reveals more about who you are as an applicant and prospective community member. Consequently, the only no-no would be to submit an academic, impersonal essay for this prompt.

Which prompts are most popular?

In the most recent cycle reported by the Common App, the most frequently selected topic was #7, the “topic of your choice” essay. This prompt was chosen by 24.1% of applicants. Prompt #5, the “discuss an accomplishment” essay, was a close second, attracting 23.7% of seniors. The bronze medal went to prompt #2, the “challenge, setback, or failure” themed essay, which netted 21.1% of Common App filers. Overall, the three most popular prompts accounted for 68.9% of applicants.

Which Common App essay prompt should I choose?

You should choose the prompt that enables you to write the strongest essay possible. The basic rules for writing a stellar college essay vary little from the general guidelines for producing any excellent piece of personal writing: be authentic, tell a compelling story, and diligently edit, revise, and polish your product. But where to begin?

Since the Common App essay prompts are so open-ended, many of our students start writing an essay on a topic that is important to them first and then decide on a prompt later. This is an especially helpful strategy if none of the prompts catch your attention. However, if there is a prompt that feels particularly interesting, you can absolutely tailor your writing process to that specific option.

Common App Essay Prompts 2024-25 (Continued)

Additionally, you might consider using the different prompts as a brainstorming tool. Go through the first six prompts one by one and bullet point several potential experiences that come to mind for each. Then, evaluate the topics you’ve collected. What stands out to you? Which topic are you interested in exploring further? What are you most excited to write about? Remember, there’s nothing stopping you from writing an exploratory draft for a few different topics before you make a final decision.

If “But my life isn’t interesting!” is the first thought that comes to mind, banish it! Writing a compelling essay doesn’t mean that you need to have wrestled a puma, grown up in a cult, or discovered a new galaxy at age seven. A great college essay can take place on a grand stage or take place just as effectively in everyday life.  Over the past seventeen or eighteen years, you have undoubtedly had many experiences that constitute worthy essay topics.  Think it over. Brainstorm. Brainstorm some more. Your compelling story will emerge.

For a more extensive brainstorming guide, head to How to Brainstorm a College Essay .

I wrote an essay but I don’t know which prompt to pick. Help!

We hear this more than you might think! Our best advice? Don’t stress—just pick “topic of your choice” if you’re stuck between two options. College admissions officers don’t pay much attention to what Common App prompt you chose. They will, however, look very closely at how well your supplemental essays answer the required prompts, which brings us to our final section…

Looking for supplemental essay prompts and advice?

College admissions offices word their supplemental essay prompts very intentionally, so we’d recommend making sure you clearly understand what the prompt is asking before you begin writing. Need more help? The Essay Section of our blog has you covered with the latest prompts and tips for 50+ top colleges, including:

• Georgetown Supplemental Essays
• MIT Supplemental Essays
• Cornell Supplemental Essays
• Columbia Supplemental Essays
• Princeton Supplemental Essays
• Harvard Supplemental Essays
• Duke Supplemental Essays
• Stanford Supplemental Essays
• Caltech Supplemental Essays

We also invite you to review the following resources to help with your college essay writing:

• On the hunt for a step-by-step guide (with examples) on how to write the Common App essay? Head over to 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples .
• Advice on what to do is useful, but tips on what not to do are of equal importance. Check out our  Five Essay Topics to Avoid  to discover what topics admissions officers are sure to find unappealing, off-putting, or downright gross.
• If you are a real go-getter, you may also wish to get a start on the most prevalent Common App supplement required by colleges—the “Why this College?” essay. Reference our guide for  mastering the “Why this College?” essay .
• If you are also applying to a school in the University of California system, you’ll also need tips on answering the  UC Personal Insight Questions .
• Are you a transfer applicant? Don’t worry, we have advice for you too in our blog entitled  How to Write a Winning Transfer Essay.
• College Essay

Dave Bergman

Dave has over a decade of professional experience that includes work as a teacher, high school administrator, college professor, and independent educational consultant. He is a co-author of the books The Enlightened College Applicant (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) and Colleges Worth Your Money (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020).

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2022–2023 transfer member screen questions

Common App gives members the opportunity to pick from a predetermined set of questions to add to your member screen. They were created by analyzing the most commonly asked questions across the membership and are reviewed each year. The standard language used across bank questions ensures a smoother experience for students while completing their application.

• Members will be able to specify values for picklists on this page
• For the General & Academics sections, members can specify dynamic picklist relationships
• The question status for all questions is required
• All essay responses are enforced by character limit
• ss - single select choice group
• ms - multi select choice group
• Y/N - Yes/No
• **  indicates questions that may be asked by Essential platform members

General section

Student status

• Question type: ss
• E.g., Full-Time, Degree Seeking, Part-Time, Evening

Preferred start term   **

Second choice start term

Preferred admission plan   **

Preferred residence during your first year

Preferred testing plan

Citizenship status

Do you have an Alien Registration Number?   **

• Question type: Y/N
• Note: if Yes is selected, the following prompts are displayed:
• Alien Registration Number (ARN):
• Question type: essay, maximum character count enforceable
• ARN expiration date:
• Question type: date

Do you intend to use an application fee waiver?   **

Please provide your [Member Name] fee waiver code here

• Question type: essay, maximum character count enforcable
• Note: dynamically shown based on the applicant’s answer to the previous question

Do you intend to pursue need-based financial aid?

Do you intend to apply for merit-based financial aid?

Members may opt to use one of the two following questions if offering an optional portfolio to applicants.

Do you intend to submit a portfolio so that your special talent in one or more of the arts will be considered as part of the admission process to [Member Name]?

[Member Name] allows submission of an external portfolio so that your special talent in one or more of the arts will be considered as part of the admission process. Do you plan to submit one to [Member Name]?

Religious preference   **

• Note: if Other is selected, the following prompt is displayed:
• Specify other religion or denomination :

Separate from need-based financial aid, which of the following programs are you interested in pursuing to help fund your education at [Member Name]?

• Question type: ms

State/country requirement

• Note: members who are required to ask a state or country mandated question may use this option to insert their language
• Note: members can determine the question type and requirement status

Academics section

Members may use up to 5 questions for applicants to specify academic plans. That same set of questions may be repeated up to 5 times.

What academic programs at [Member Name] interest you? List in order of preference:   **

• Note: custom label

Pre-professional

How many college credits will you have earned when you start classes?

Activities section

Which activities at [Member Name] interest you? Please list in order of preference.

• Note: this question is not required, members may determine the number of responses to allow/display (1-5)

Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences.

Some applicants maintain an online presence that showcases their background, talents, or creativity. If you maintain such a site, please feel free to enter the URL here:

Indicate honor societies in which you hold membership:

• Specify other honor society name :

Contacts section

Have you previously applied to [Member Name]?

• Note: if Yes is selected, the following prompt is displayed:
• Question type: mm/yyyy

How have you learned about [Member Name]? Please list in order of influence:

• Note: this question is not required, members may determine the number of responses to allow/display (1-10)

If you wish to be contacted via mobile phone, please provide your phone number. Contact methods may include phone calls generated from an automated telephone dialing system or text messaging.

• Note: value = “I consent to be contacted by [Member Name] at the mobile phone number provided below.”
• Note: if consent is granted, the following prompt appears:
• Mobile phone number

Family section

How many siblings are also applying for undergraduate admission to [Member Name] this year? Please indicate the number of siblings.

• Note: None, 1-5
• Note: if any option besides None is selected, the following prompts are displayed:
• Sibling relationship
• Question type: ss, e.g. “brother”, “twin/triplet”
• Sibling first/given name
• Sibling last/family/surname
• Sibling other last name

Members may opt to use one of the following question groups to gather the applicants’ legacy information.

Do you have any relatives who are attending or have attended [Member Name]?

• Please include their first and last names, graduation year, and relationship to you.

Have any relatives ever attended [Member Name]? Please indicate the number of relatives.

• Family legacy relationship
• Family legacy first/given name
• Family legacy last/family/surname
• Family legacy maiden/other last name
• Family legacy number of degrees at [Member Name]
• Question type: ss, "No Degree" option or 5 maximum
• Family legacy degree received
• Question type: ss, fixed list matching Family section
• Family legacy year received

Have any relatives ever worked for [Member Name]? Please indicate the number of relatives.

• Family employee relationship
• Family employee first/given name
• Family employee last/family/surname
• Family employee maiden/other last name
• Family employee title
• Family employee department
• Is your family member currently employed at [Member Name]?
• Family employee last employed
• Question type: date, dynamically shown based on the applicant’s answer to the previous question

If you provided information in the Parent/Guardian section of the Common App, do you have any parents or guardians who live in a known address different than your own?   **

• Which of the following live in a known address different than your own?
• Parent 1 name and address
• Is there a second parent or guardian who lives in a known address different than your own?
• Parent 2 relationship to applicant
• Parent 2 name and address

If at least one of your parents were born outside of the U.S., indicate their birth country. (Please select one) **

Residency section

Do you believe you may qualify for in-state tuition?

• Question Type: Y/N
• Note: the remaining questions in this section are able to appear dynamically if the applicant responds “Yes” to this question

Are you a resident of [State]?

• Question type:Y/N
• How long have you lived in [State]? (Please indicate length of time)

Since when have you lived at your current address?

Do you have a driver’s license or state identification card?

• State of issuance:
• Question type: ss, fixed list
• Date issued:

Are you employed?

• State where your office is located:

Did you file a state tax return last year?

• State of filing:

Will you file a state tax return this year?

Do you own a car?

• State of registration:
• Date of registration:

Do you own real estate?

• State where property taxes were most recently paid:
• Real estate title date:

Are you registered to vote?

• State registered:

Have you ever served jury duty?

• State most recently served:

Parent/legal guardian residency section

This question immediately below may appear dynamically if the applicant responds “Yes” to “Do you believe you may qualify for in-state tuition?” within the Residency section. Any response to this question besides None will trigger the subsequent parent/guardian residency questions. Members may choose to remove questions from the section that do not impact the in-state status of an applicant based on state or institutional guidlines.

The questions in this section pertain to the parent or legal guardian who would qualify you for in-state status at this college. Declining to answer questions within this section could impact your ability to qualify for in-state tuition and financial aid. From the answers given on your application, please select the parent/legal guardian that best qualifies you for in-state tuition.

• Question Type: ss, all members must ask this question

Since when has this parent/legal guardian lived at his/her current residence?

Is your parent/legal guardian a resident of [State]?

• How long has your parent/legal guardian lived in [State]? (Please indicate length of time)

Is your parent/legal guardian a US citizen?

• Countries of citizenship:
• Question type: ms, fixed list
• Does your parent/legal guardian hold a US visa?
• Question type: ss, fixed list matching Profile section

Is your parent/legal guardian a US Armed Services active duty or veteran?

Does your parent/legal guardian have a driver's license or state identification card?

Is your parent/legal guardian employed?

• State where your parent/legal guardian's workplace is located:

Did your parent/legal guardian file a state tax return last year?

• Did your parent/legal guardian claim you on a state tax return last year?

Will your parent/legal guardian file a state tax return this year?

• Will your parent/legal guardian claim you on a state tax return this year:

Does your parent/legal guardian own a car?

Does your parent/legal guardian own real estate?

Is your parent/legal guardian registered to vote?

Has your parent/legal guardian ever served jury duty?

Writing section

Who in your life is depending on you? What are they depending on you for?

Why are you interested in [Member Name]?

Discuss your reasons for pursuing the [Major/Academic Program] selected above.

Please discuss your educational path. How will continuing your education at a new institution help you achieve your future goals?

School discipline   **

• Note: members who wish to ask their own version of the school discipline question may use this option to insert their language

Criminal history   **

• Note: members who wish to ask their own version of the criminal history question may use this option to insert their language

Common app personal essay section

The Common App Personal Essay helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want admissions readers to know about you that is not reflected elsewhere in your application? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay using the prompt to inspire and structure your response (1,250 - 3,250 characters, approx. 250 - 650 words). Please select a prompt below to help you write your personal statement:   **

• Note: Once a selection is made to the above, one of the following prompts can be configured to display:
• Please write an essay on the topic selected. You can type directly into the box, or you can paste text from another source.
• Question type: essay, 3,250 maximum characters
• Please write an essay on the topic selected. You can attach your response using the Common App Personal Essay upload button in the Documents tab above.
• Question type: instructional text

Military discharge section

Military discharge   **

• Note: members who wish to ask their own version of the military discharge question may use this option to insert their language

Home » The Ultimate Guide for Transfer Applicants Using the Common App

The Ultimate Guide for Transfer Applicants Using the Common App

For transfer students, applying to college can be a daunting process. However, with the Common App, the application process becomes streamlined and straightforward. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about using the Common App as a transfer applicant (most of this should sound familiar to you). We’ll provide tips and strategies to help you stand out in your application and answer frequently asked questions about using the Common App as a transfer student. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the college transfer process, this guide will help ensure your success.

Benefits of Using the Common App for Transfer Applications

For transfer students seeking to apply to multiple colleges, the Common App offers a convenient solution by allowing you to submit one application . Moreover, it simplifies the process of transferring information from previous applications since all data is centralized on this platform.

Apart from simplifying the application process, the Common App also provides valuable resources and support to students. This can save you a considerable amount of time and effort, especially when navigating through the complexities of college applications. Moreover, many colleges offer fee waivers or other incentives for utilizing this platform. As a result, it comes as no surprise that so many transfer students choose to apply through the Common App.

Key Dates for Transfer Students Using the Common App

Staying on top of deadlines is crucial for transfer students using the Common App. Each school may have specific application requirements and due dates, so it’s essential to keep track of them all. The Common App has its own deadlines for transfer applicants, which may differ from regular decision deadlines. If you are considering applying for a fall transfer, the most common deadline is around March. This timeline applies to all eight Ivy League schools, as they have annual deadlines in March. It’s important to keep in mind that each school may have different requirements and application procedures, so it’s essential to do your research and plan accordingly. In addition, some schools offer rolling admissions, meaning that the earlier you apply, the better your chances of admission. Remember to submit your application as early as possible to avoid any last-minute stress.

Navigating the Common App as a Transfer Applicant

For transfer applicants using the Common App, it’s essential to stay organized and keep track of all the application requirements and deadlines. The first step is to create a Common App account and select the colleges you’re interested in applying to. Once you’ve identified your target schools, review each college’s specific application requirements, which will include transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, and test scores. The Common App also offers a transfer credit preview tool that helps applicants understand how their previous coursework will transfer to their new college. Remember to track the status of your application and reach out to individual schools with any questions or concerns about the transfer process.

Common App Essay Tips for Transfer Students

Writing a persuasive essay is an essential component of the transfer application process, and the Common App offers several prompts to choose from. Selecting the appropriate prompt is critical because it allows you to showcase your strengths and aspirations effectively. To do this, you must understand each prompt’s nuances and select one that aligns with your transfer journey. Personal anecdotes and experiences can help make your essay unique and unforgettable while highlighting how transferring will help you achieve your academic and career goals.

Highlight your reasons for transferring and how the new college fits into your academic and career goals. People don’t always do this part well. Take time to research the new college and its transfer policies before applying. The essay section is where you can truly shine by explaining any challenges or setbacks you faced during your previous year(s) in college and how you overcame them. Ultimately, a compelling transfer essay should provide insight into who you are as a person, why you wish to transfer, and how transferring will help you reach your full potential academically and professionally.

Remember to proofread and edit your essay thoroughly before submission – it can make all the difference in setting yourself apart from other applicants. A well-crafted essay that is free of grammatical errors and typos not only demonstrates your attention to detail but also reflects positively on your communication skills. Additionally, consider having someone else read your essay to provide constructive feedback and a fresh perspective.

Can I Reuse My Common App Essay For Transfer Applications?

Yes, it is possible to reuse your Common App essay for transfer applications. The Common App essay prompts remain the same each year, so if your initial essay addresses one of the prompts, you can certainly reuse it for your transfer applications. 

While you can, you probably shouldn’t. Figure out whether the essay you want to reuse still effectively represents your goals, experiences, and reasons for transferring. If your circumstances or motivations have significantly changed since you first wrote the essay, you may need to revise it to align with your current situation. Additionally, some colleges and universities may have their own essay prompts or requirements for transfer applicants, so it’s essential to review each institution’s application guidelines to ensure your essay meets their specific criteria.

Do Colleges Prefer Transfer Applicants Using the Common App?

When it comes to transfer applications, many colleges and universities accept the Common App, making the process more streamlined for applicants. One advantage of using the Common App is that it allows transfer applicants to apply to multiple schools at once with ease. However, colleges do not show preference towards transfer applicants using the Common App versus those who use their own application. Additionally, the platform allows for easy submission of supporting documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation, simplifying the application process further.

Many prestigious universities, including Harvard, Yale, and Columbia, accept transfer applications via the Common App. Schools that don’t accept transfer applications via the common app include schools such as Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the University of California system. These schools have their own transfer application processes in place that are separate from the Common App. It’s important for transfer applicants to carefully review each school’s website and requirements to ensure they are using the correct application platform. Keep in mind that regardless of which platform you use to apply, it’s critical to demonstrate why you are a strong fit for the school and how transferring will benefit your academic and career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

As a transfer applicant, it’s natural to have questions about the college application process and the platforms available to you. Below are some frequently asked questions that can help guide you:

1. What is the Common App, and how does it work for transfer applicants?

– The Common App is a college application platform used by over 900 colleges and universities in the United States. As a transfer applicant, you can use the platform to apply to multiple schools at once by filling out one main application and supplementing it with additional materials required by each school.

2. How do I know if a college accepts the Common App for transfer applications?

– You can check if a college accepts the Common App by visiting their website or searching for them on the Common App Website . The list of schools will indicate if they accept transfer applications through the platform.

3. What supporting documents do I need to submit through the Common App as a transfer applicant?

– Transfer applicants typically need to submit transcripts from all colleges attended, letters of recommendation from professors or employers, and a personal statement. Some schools may also require additional materials such as a resume or an essay specific to that school.

4. How can I ensure my transfer application stands out on the Common App platform?

– To ensure your transfer application stands out, carefully review each school’s requirements and deadlines before applying. Take time to highlight any unique qualities or experiences that make you a strong candidate for each school. Make sure to proofread and double-check all materials for accuracy and completeness before submitting. Additionally, consider reaching out to admissions counselors or attending virtual information sessions to demonstrate your interest in the school and gain more insight into their transfer process.

The Common App is an excellent tool that simplifies the transfer application process, effectively saving time and energy. Book a free consultation with us to learn more about how to ace your transfer application using the Common App or any other platform. Transfer students often face low acceptance rates at top schools, making it essential to distinguish themselves from other applicants. Our expert team can assist you in crafting a compelling one that stands out from the rest. With our guidance and support, you can increase your chances of success and secure admission to your dream school!

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, is there a common app essay for transfer students.

Hey everyone, I'm planning to transfer and I heard that the Common App has some kind of essay. Can someone clarify if there's a specific Common App essay for transfer students or how it's different from the first-year application essay?

Absolutely, there is a specific essay for transfer students on the Common Application. The transfer application provides a single essay prompt that asks you to explain your reasons for transferring and to describe the goals you hope to achieve: 'The personal statement helps colleges get to know you better as a person and a student. Please provide a statement discussing your educational path. How does continuing your education at a new institution help you achieve your future goals?'

Keep in mind that the word limit for the transfer essay is typically 650 words, the same as the first-year essay. This is your platform to convey your unique story and show how your experiences have led you to this point. It's a crucial part of your application, so be sure to reflect deeply on your reasons for transferring and how it ties in with your future goals. Drafting several versions and seeking feedback can help refine your essay into a compelling narrative.

If you feel that the transfer essay doesn't effectively tell your story, you also have the option of responding to the first-year essay prompts. The Common App has instructions for how to do this here: https://membersupport.commonapp.org/s/article/Common-App-for-transfer-personal-statement-changes

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