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What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
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UCLA
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

What are some tips for writing a great Common App essay?

Hi all! I'm a junior starting to work on my Common App essay. I want to make sure it's really strong and represents me well. Does anyone have any advice for writing a great essay? Thanks so much!

a year ago

Hey there! It's great that you're starting early on your Common App essay. My child recently went through the process, so I have a few tips to share. First and foremost, choose a topic that truly showcases your personality, interests, and values. Don't try to write what you think admissions officers want to read; rather, write about something that genuinely matters to you and has shaped your growth. Second, be authentic and honest in your storytelling. It's important to let your true self shine through. Third, focus on showing, not telling. Use descriptive language and detail to help the reader visualize and connect with your story. Finally, don't forget to revise, revise, revise! Get feedback from teachers, friends, and family to ensure your essay is polished and error-free. Remember, your essay is your chance to let admissions officers get to know you beyond your grades and test scores. Best of luck on your essay and the entire application process!

a year ago

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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.