It’s easy to get stressed out as you prepare to send out your college applications. Students have to present themselves in a unique positive light. But, given the sheer amount of paperwork and form-filling students have to deal with as application deadlines approach, this can be difficult. To make matters worse, on top of a Common Application personal statement essay, some colleges require additional supplemental essays.
Especially if you are applying to numerous schools at once, you might not have time to write multiple essays. If you need to save time and energy, consider applying to schools without a supplemental essay. Here, we’ll introduce you to some of the top schools that don’t require supplemental essays.
What Are Supplemental Essays?
College application essays are an important part of the admissions process. They allow admissions officers to get to know students on a more personal level. Some schools only require the Common App’s 650-word personal statement essay. Other schools, though, require additional essays and ask more targeted and specialized questions. These more targeted essays are known as supplemental essays.
Top Colleges That Don’t Require Supplemental Essays:
The following schools are some of the top-ranked colleges in the country. We’ve provided some simple facts about each university, so you can decide whether these institutions are the right fit for you.
Your College Admissions Journey, Mapped Out!
Introducing our college planning timeline with a handy checklist of essential tasks, a step-by-step guide for every grade level, from freshman to senior year, AND financial aid, college applications, extracurricular activities, and more.
1. Drexel University
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University is known for its R1-level global research and is ranked among the top 100 schools in the United States. Unlike other top colleges, you don’t have to submit an additional supplemental essay. The common app essay is enough for the application process.
2. Clemson University
Clemson University is recognized for its academic reputation and advanced research efforts. CU is one of the top universities in South Carolina and is ranked among the top 30 schools in the United States. Like Drexel, you only have to submit your common app essay to apply.
3. Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a public research university located in Phoenix, Arizona. This popular and well-known school does not require a supplemental essay. Instead, applicants only have to submit a Common Application to apply. The only exception is if you are applying to ASU’s honor program, in which case applicants must write a supplemental essay.
4. University of Alabama
The University of Alabama was founded in 1831 and has a long history of academic excellence. Primarily known for its Law School, students at UA have won a range of academic awards during its long history. No supplemental essays are required for UA, and there are tons of great majors to choose from. Many students choose to pursue Engineering and Communication majors.
5. University of Denver
The University of Denver is a private school that is also ranked within the top 100 schools in the country. This is a particularly great university for students who want to go into international relations, astronomy, and other diverse majors. Those interested in creative writing should also consider applying to UD, which has one of the oldest creative writing programs in the country.
6. University of Delaware
The University of Delaware is ranked among the top 40 public universities in the United States. UD was founded in 1743 and offers over 300 programs to both undergraduate and graduate students. Supplemental essays are not required at UD; however, if you are applying to the honors program or Occupational Therapy, you will need to write supplemental essays. Otherwise, you can just fill in your Common Application essay.
7. University of South Carolina
Unless you are applying to its Honors Program, students interested in attending the University of South Carolina need only submit a Common Application essay. USC is located in Columbia, South Carolina, and offers students one of the country’s best college experiences. Highly ranked for its Greek life, amenities, and academic environment, USC is a great public university to consider adding to your list.
The University of Minnesota has been ranked among the top research universities in the world. This school is best known for its Ecology department, which is ranked second in the world. With a range of majors to choose from and a list of impressive alumni, this is another top college we recommend applying to—especially if you don’t want to submit a supplemental essay.
9. University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh is surrounded by the bustling and culturally rich city of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. This top university is one of the country’s leading research universities in the country and is within the nation’s top 60 ranked schools. Students can choose to write a personal statement or may simply submit their essays through the Common Application. No supplemental essays are involved.
10. University of Vermont
The University of Vermont is surrounded by natural beauty. Students with a passion for nature and academics will love UVM. This so-called public ivy is rigorous and ranks well amongst other colleges. UVM is also right near ski slopes, hiking trails, and major bodies of water, which make it a perfect fit for students who want to get involved in extracurricular outdoor activities. The essay for the Common Application is optional, and no supplemental essays are needed.
11. Skidmore College
Dubbed as one of the “New Ivies,” Skidmore offers a prestigious and exclusive academic setting. This private school is ranked 39th among all U.S. liberal arts colleges. With only 2,400 students, Skidmore is smaller than other institutions on this list. However, if you want a school with a variety of majors with smaller class sizes, this is a great option.
12. Juniata College
Finally, if you are looking for a unique college experience without a supplemental essay requirement, consider applying to Juniata College. Juniata College is one of the country’s few institutions that doesn’t make its students declare a major. Instead, students create their own self-designed majors. Though pre-planned majors are also available, Juniata offers a rare chance to tailor your education to your needs.
Other Colleges Without Supplemental Essays:
In addition to the other top colleges, we listed above, there are other great schools that don’t require a supplemental essay. Check out some of your other options here.
Northeastern College
Rhodes College
Kenyon College
Oberlin College
Connecticut College
Seton Hall University
Colby College
Case Western Reserve College
Washington University
University of Massachusetts
New Jersey Institute of Technology
If you are interested in learning more about the college admissions process, or about college life in general, check out more of our blogs and resources here at HelloCollege. We believe that preparing for university shouldn’t be scary, and we are here to help guide you or your student through the process every step of the way.
