First-Year Essay Prompts

As part of your application, some colleges require an essay. There's no perfect length but usually, 500-650 words does the trick. Beginning in August, when you apply with Scoir, you'll have the opportunity to select from 1 of these prompts provided by The Coalition for College. 

This is your opportunity to tell your story and highlight your personality outside of academics. The best prompt is the one that brings structure to your unique story and allows your voice to shine through.

What is The Coalition, you ask? One of the distinguishing characteristics of Coalition member schools is their mission. The Coalition is made up of more than 150 top colleges and universities committed to making college more affordable and ensuring you graduate on time. 

2023-2024 and 2024-2025 Prompts

1. Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it.
2. What interests or excites you? How does it shape who you are now or who you might become in the future?
3. Describe a time when you had a positive impact on others. What were the challenges? What were the rewards?
4. Has there been a time when an idea or belief of yours was questioned? How did you respond? What did you learn?
5. What success have you achieved or obstacle have you faced? What advice would you give a sibling or friend going through a similar experience?
6. Submit an essay on a topic of your choice.

Essay Writing Resources

Articles, podcasts, and more to help you ace your essays.