Washington University in St. Louis has released its essay prompt for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle. Applicants to the Wash U Class of 2026 will be asked to answer one optional essay prompt, though applicants to any of the signature scholarship programs will be asked to write a second essay prompt. Wash U, historically known to be a school with a short supplement (there was a time when Wash U didn’t ask any supplemental essay prompt), asks applicants one short question of 150 words: “Describe a high school or community activity in which you have taken initiative. What were the challenges and outcomes? What did you learn?” And that’s it! But while answering the prompt might be “optional,” loyal readers of our college admissions blog know that which is optional in elite college admissions should not be considered optional.

For applicants to the Danforth Scholars Program, the Ervin Scholars Program, or the Rodriguez Scholars Program, applicants are asked an additional prompt. For Danforth, applicants are asked to answer the following 150-word prompt: “The Danforth Scholars Program is looking for students with a strong commitment to community and demonstrated initiative in leadership and service. Please share an example of your personal experience as a leader that would clarify why you would be a good fit for this community of scholars.” For Rodriguez, applicants are asked to answer a 250-word prompt: “Consider the biography of Annika Rodriguez and reflect upon your commitment to bringing diverse groups together and/or celebrating the cultures of diverse peoples. How do you demonstrate this commitment? How do your service activities demonstrate your dedication to the ideals embraced by the Rodriguez Scholars Program.” And for Ervin, applicants are asked to answer a 250-word prompt: “Review the biography of Dr. John B. Ervin and the four Program Pillars. How have you demonstrated your commitment to the ideals of the Program? Please provide 1-2 specific examples.”

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