The college application process can feel overwhelming, but with Williams Educational Consultants, we help clients stay informed and on track. With that in mind, we're sharing an important update about the Common Application essay prompts for the 2025-2026 admissions cycle.

No Changes to the Main Essay Prompts

Good news for students: the Common App essay prompts will remain the same for the upcoming cycle! After receiving positive feedback from students, counselors, teachers, and colleges, the Common App has decided to keep the prompts unchanged. Therefore, students can start brainstorming and drafting their essays confidently, knowing they will not have to adjust to new prompts.

ESSAY PROMPTS 2025-2026:

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.

2. 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?

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

4. 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?

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

6. 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?

7. 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.

Updates to the Additional Information Section

While the main essay prompts remain the same, there are two key changes to the optional "Additional Information" section that students should be aware of:

1. Community Disruption Question Becomes 'Challenges and Circumstances '- Previously, students could discuss community disruptions that affected their education. Starting August 1, 2025, this prompt will shift to a broader "Challenges and Circumstances" question, allowing students to share a wider range of personal experiences and obstacles they have faced.

2. Word Limit Reduction for Additional Information Question - The word limit for the "Additional Information" section will be reduced. While this section remains an opportunity for students to provide context on essential aspects of their application, they need to be more concise in their responses.

   
   

Preparing for Your Common App Essay

With these updates, students should reflect on their personal stories and experiences. The college essay is a chance to highlight unique qualities, values, and aspirations—allowing admissions officers to see beyond grades and test scores.

At Williams Educational Consultants, we are here to help students navigate the essay writing process, from brainstorming compelling topics to refining final drafts. If you need guidance, don't hesitate to reach out!