University of San Diego

Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

for 2024-2025

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University of San Diego

essays?

Talk to a Prompt program specialist about what you’re thinking about writing.

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How do you apply to

University of San Diego

?

You apply to
University of San Diego
through their application portal through the Common App
or Apply Texas
or the UC App
or Questbridge
.
Apply Texas
Apply Texas
Apply Texas B
Apply Texas C
Common App
Common App
UC App
UC App
Questbridge
Questbridge

When are

University of San Diego

applications due?

Early Action:
Early Action II:
Early Decision:
Early Decision II:
Restrictive Early Action:
Regular Decision:
December 1, 2024

How many essays are required to apply to

University of San Diego

?

There's also
0
optional essay(s).
There are no optional essays.

Want to talk about your

University of San Diego

essays?

Talk to a Prompt program specialist about what you’re thinking about writing.

Talk with us

University of San Diego

Supplemental Essay Prompts

San Diego: Choose 1 of 3

Option #1) Here at USD, we value the fact that our students come from all walks of life, have experienced different realities and bring with them an array of unique perspectives, including some that have often been underrepresented and underserved by higher education. Our Horizon Project is a call to action, ensuring that we are dedicating the time, energy and resources necessary to build an ever more diverse, inclusive and equitable campus community. What contribution have you made to your current school and/or local community that best exemplifies your awareness of and commitment to these ideals?Essays should be approximately 200 words in length, but please note that the default word counter on our Common Application essay text boxes permit 350 words.Option #2) As a proud Changemaker Campus, the USD experience emphasizes changemaking through care for our common home, social justice efforts, civic engagement, social innovation, creativity and a global perspective. Write about one of the challenges facing humanity today. Why does it matter to you? What experiences or insights have you had that speak to the urgency of this issue?Essays should be approximately 200 words in length, but please note that the default word counter on our Common Application essay text boxes permit 350 words.Option #3) Share some of your ideas about the role of faith or spirituality in your life or the life of someone you know. As a contemporary Catholic university, we welcome and celebrate students from every background and faith tradition, including those who do not identify with a faith tradition. We devote great time and energy to ensuring all students feel connected to the vibrant USD community, including opportunities to grow in their relationship with God while considering who they are, what they believe and who they are called to become.Essays should be approximately 200 words in length, but please note that the default word counter on our Common Application essay text boxes permit 350 words.

Word count:
350 words
or less.
Requirement:
required

Liberal Arts Tradition

For over 75 years, the liberal arts have been the cornerstone of the educational experience at USD.They help students explore the world, past and present, and lay the foundation for building inspired and meaningful lives.They also provide the skills and experiences students need to be successful in an increasingly changing and challenging world.Throughout the first year and beyond, we engage students in this exploration through our Core Curriculum and Learning Communities, connecting them with faculty who will guide them as they become global citizens.What excites you about the academic opportunities at USD?You can learn more about our Core Curriculum and Learning Community programs by clicking on the respective links.

Word count:
350 words
or less.
Requirement:
required

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or less.
Requirement:

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or less.
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or less.
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or less.
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or less.
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or less.
Requirement:

Tips for Writing Supplemental Essays

How to write the best supplemental essays.

Tip #1

Develop Your Personal Brand

Brainstorm all your experiences in high school that you believe will show that you will be successful in college and beyond. The strongest ones will be the foundation of your personal brand.

Tip #2

Highlight Your Strengths

Your essays should highlight one of the 5 traits: drive, intellectual curiosity, initiative, contribution, diversity of experiences

Tip #3

Add to Your Personal Score

Every essay counts to build the overall narrative. Increasing your personal score increases your chances by 10x.

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essay guidance?

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