Application Essay: Types, How to write Application Essays for Study Abroad

Significance of Application Essay

Vast majority of students strive to study abroad in top most universities and thus go through the comprehensive process of gathering required important documents according to university’s guidelines. Students need to meet all the academic requirements as well as submit all relevant documents within the deadline in this strenuous and time-consuming process. Number of documents are required for the admission process, such as academic transcripts, visa documents, financial statements, letters of recommendation (LORs) and a statement of purpose (SOP).

Admission essay or commonly known as Application Essay is crucial for the admission process. It generously gives elaborative glimpse of one’s background, experiences, abilities as well as various aspects of personality. Admission Essays hold the power to create a powerful impact, either positive or negative, and so must be given high priority during the writing process. These essays are better kept in alignment with one’s thoughts and should be presented in flawless language. All this effort could lead to assured admission in the college of preference. These essays clearly create opportunities for the students to set themselves apart through their unique expressions in the essay.

What is an Application Essay?

Admission or Application Essays are one of the most often asked documents by most universities. It is made clear by universities about the requirements with details. Some essays are asked in the form of answer to the question whereas others may be in the form of a statement of purpose. At times, it might seem as if Application essay is quite similar to Personal statement or Statement of Purpose, but that’s not the case. The essay certainly depicts the authentic personal image of an individual as compared to the statement. It could also be distinguished on the basis of guidelines issued regarding pointers to be utilized in the essay or any given prompt for that matter. Application Essay conveniently extends opportunity for students to bring forth their excellent and articulate writing skills through this. This essay is also expected to reflect student’s determination and existing knowledge of the chosen subject. It thoroughly highlights student’s writing skills, ability to express and unique perspective as well. Prompt questions are very common for graduate essays as personal development questions are more prevalent for undergraduate essay prompts.

Diverse categories of Application essays

Undergraduate Admission Essay

• Common Application Essay
  
• UCAS Application Essay

MBA Admission Essay

• Career Progression Essay
  
• Goals Essay
  
• Leadership Essay
  
• Culture Shock Essay

Other Admission Essays

• Scholarship Essay
  
• Gap Year Essay

Essays based on genre

• Argumentative
  
• Autobiographical
  
• Descriptive
  
• Narrative
  
• Persuasive

Preparation for Application Essay

• The word limit for admission essay is around 350 to 500. Each essay may have a different word count.
  The word count requirement is usually provided by the university. It is suggested to stick to the instructions and not exceed the word limit.
  
• The language of essay should never be vague as it will reflect poorly on student’s skills and expression.
  
• Grammatical mistakes should be avoided at all costs as an integral part of criteria on which it will be assessed.
  
• Formal and relevant language should be used in essay to make it stand out and put forth one’s expression in best manner.

How to write Application Essay for study abroad?

Guidelines for writing Application or Admission essay:

• Planning and Organizing: One important step is to draft the material of essay and organize according to the given format. Plan it thoroughly into a structure according to given guidelines. To include authenticity, genuine beliefs and real-life experiences and support for ideas with a clearer perspective backed by evidence.
  
• Targets determined for comprising essays: Target of the essay is considered to be the unique information that sets one apart from other applicants. One should also share their goals and inspirations and how desired university will help them achieve their dreams.
  
• Being Specific counts: Relevant answers according to the topic is appreciated. Appropriate word limit and good vocabulary gets authorities engaged and impressed.
  
• Proofreading: Application essay is expected to be concise, informative and confident at the same time. Final draft should be proofread keeping in mind all the above things to make it error free.
  
• Deadlines: They are to be followed to avoid any default leading to disqualification. It is always better to maintain efficiency and punctuality.

Below is an excerpt from one of NYU Application Essay examples:

The Bachelor of Science in Business Program excites me, as it entails a well-rounded yet intensive study in core business disciplines. However, what draws me to stern is the emphasis on gaining a global perspective, which is crucial in today’s rapidly changing world economy. Through the International Business Exchange Program, I will be able to gain a first-hand cultural experience that will mould me into a global citizen and business leader. Not only will I be taking courses in the most prestigious business schools across the globe, but I will also have new doors opened for me to network with alumni.

Accordingly, application essays should be detailed, specific, and shows the admissions team at any school, college or university, why the writer would enrich campus life- all while answering the college essay prompts.