The “Why This College” Essay: How to Go Beyond the Name and Win Over the Admissions Office

by Wise World Prep

E-Book 3 - Why This College Essay - Cover 2.jpg

Why are you applying to the schools on your list? Can you give a clear, concise answer that persuades a knowledgeable admissions officer? For colleges that ask some derivative of the “Why This College” question as a supplemental essay—and the list of schools that do is long—it is often the most important piece of writing an applicant will submit. 

Having a strong desire to attend a particular school is not enough to move the needle in an overly competitive admissions landscape. Successful students demonstrate how their unique skills and passions align with the resources and philosophy of the college to which they are applying. They find compelling evidence that differentiates a school from its competitors and zero in on how they will take advantage of the opportunities afforded to them. You can be one of these students! 

This e-book will guide you on how to write a “Why This College” essay that increases your chances of gaining admission and helps you separate yourself from the field. Learn sound strategies for researching useful information, navigating varied word limits, and capturing the reader’s attention from the first line. With over 50 years of combined experience in admissions and college counseling, our team has helped hundreds of students craft well-developed, highly personal “Why This College” essays for Stanford, Yale, the University of Chicago, and countless other highly selective universities. Use the tips within this e-book to benefit from that advice as you undertake your own admissions journey. 

Format: 22 page PDF download
ISBN: 978-1-947073-03-6

$8.99