Applying to college is a daunting time for both parents and teenagers, and the college application essay is something that many people spend endless hours worrying about. If you are working on a college application essay currently, keep reading as we discuss what looks really good on a college application essay. By applying all of these college application essay tips to your teen’s application, you’ll help to set them up for success and ensure they secure a place at the college of their dreams. Crafting a standout college essay is a critical step.
What makes a college application stand out?
Many students and parents believe that a strong college application is built by being “well-rounded” — participating in many activities, volunteering widely, and maintaining solid grades. However, this widespread advice is misleading and damaging for those who want a real shot at the Ivy League. The truth is, Ivy League admissions are not a lottery where everyone has an equal chance. Instead, schools are looking for world-class applicants and those who have demonstrated extraordinary achievement in one specific area. Focusing on a "spike" is key for competitive college applications.
To stand out, your application must show a spike — a clear, deep, and sustained commitment to a passion that has resulted in an Olympic-level project or accomplishment. This isn’t about showing you are good at many things; it’s about proving you are among the very best in something that you care deeply about. Whether that’s creating a software platform used by millions, producing a Broadway-level musical, or launching a successful startup, your essay and application need to showcase that level of impact and skill. Demonstrating world-class ability in a niche area is crucial.
Good vs GREAT college applications
A good application checks all the boxes: strong GPA, high test scores, leadership roles, volunteer hours, and a solid essay. A great application is one with a 75% chance of getting into the Ivy League that shows clear, obsessive focus in a single area and demonstrates world-class ability through a massive, impressive project. It includes high SAT or ACT scores, ideally above 1550 or 35, and connects all academic and extracurricular choices to one common theme. The essay serves to prove the spike. Colleges don’t admit well-rounded students; they admit world-class students, and then assemble a well-rounded class. Understanding this distinction is vital for Ivy League hopefuls.
The ONLY purpose of your college essay
Forget everything you’ve heard about writing something “heartfelt,” “deep,” or “authentic.” Those things matter only if they serve the real purpose of your college essay: to prove that you are already world-class in something, and that you will achieve extraordinary things in the future. That’s it. If your essay isn’t doing that, it’s wasting your most valuable space on the application. Your college essay must strategically showcase your unique achievements.
Understanding what colleges want in your essay is crucial. But building a successful application takes more than just writing, it requires a strategic plan and expert guidance. That’s where Prequel steps in.
Master Your College Application with Prequel
In Prequel's Summer Program (formerly BETA Camp), everything we do revolves around helping you build a triangular project that defines your application and makes you unforgettable to admissions officers. Our in-house college admissions expert works with you one-on-one to create a personalized strategy that highlights this masterpiece and connects every part of your application to it. Prequel helps students develop standout projects for their applications.
You’ll get a clear, customized college roadmap that ties together your academics, extracurriculars, and projects into a cohesive plan designed to showcase your unique impact. To help you tell your story powerfully, we offer monthly live group coaching focused on essay writing, application strategy, and interview preparation, all aimed at refining how you present your masterpiece.
Plus, our expert reviews of your Common App essays, supplemental essays, and activity lists make sure every word reinforces your world-class narrative. With Prequel, your college application isn’t just a collection of activities—it’s a strategic, compelling masterpiece that opens doors to the most competitive schools. Prequel provides comprehensive college application support.
Ivy League–backed college essay strategies
Read the prompt carefully
It’s tempting to dive into writing, but the most important step is to fully understand the essay prompt. Ivy League admissions officers look for students who can follow instructions precisely and demonstrate attention to detail. If your essay doesn’t answer the prompt, no matter how creative or well-written, it will hurt your chances. Always frame your essay to respond directly to the question asked, showing you can focus and deliver exactly what’s required. Adhering to the essay prompt is non-negotiable.
Write about something personal and passionate that showcases your spike
Avoid writing about something you think other people want to hear or that will impress the admissions team, and instead, write about something interesting to you and that directly relates to your area of extraordinary achievement. This could be reflecting on an experience or sharing your biggest passion in life. When applying to college, you should be drawing upon the many years of life experience you have so far, as this is what looks really good on a college application. Colleges want to see well-rounded individuals who will be a great addition to their college. Even if you think your interests are too bizarre or specialist, don’t be afraid to show who you really are. Your essay will be so much more interesting to read when you are writing something you are excited about, and this passion will come across in every sentence that you write. Authentic passion, tied to your spike, makes for a compelling essay.
Avoid using too much humor or clichés in your college essay
While a lighthearted tone can sometimes work, humor is risky in college essays and often backfires. Admissions officers read thousands of essays and can quickly spot forced jokes or clichés. Instead of trying to be funny, focus on telling a compelling story with emotional depth and insight that reinforces your unique accomplishments. Show vulnerability, growth, or determination without resorting to gimmicks or overused phrases.
Expect to write multiple drafts of your essay
Your first draft will rarely be your best. Great essays require time, reflection, and revision. Start by creating an outline to organize your ideas and build narrative tension. After completing a draft, step away for a day or two, then revisit it with fresh eyes to identify weak spots, unclear sections, or awkward phrasing. Revising multiple times helps ensure your essay is polished, coherent, and powerful. The revision process is crucial for a strong college essay.
Get feedback and edit carefully for a polished submission
Don’t rely on just your judgment. Ask a trusted teacher, counselor, or parent to read your essay and offer constructive feedback. They can catch unclear points, awkward wording, or minor errors you might miss. Be open to suggestions and ready to revise accordingly. Spelling and grammar mistakes, even small ones, can undermine an otherwise strong essay, so careful editing is essential. Proofreading and feedback are vital final steps.
Spend the most time on your introduction and conclusion to make an impact
The opening and closing paragraphs are your chances to make a lasting impression. The introduction should grab the reader’s attention immediately and set the tone, hinting at the story or insight to come. The conclusion should tie everything together, reinforcing your main message without introducing new ideas. A strong conclusion leaves the admissions officer with a clear understanding of who you are and why you’ll succeed. A powerful intro and conclusion frame your essay effectively.
Final advice: build a masterpiece, not a checklist
To achieve a 75% chance at Ivy League admission, focus on creating a deep, singular spike that defines your application. Let your essay narrate this spike clearly and compellingly. Avoid spreading yourself too thin and instead show admissions officers a powerful story of exceptional achievement and future potential. A focused application highlighting a "spike" is more effective than a "well-rounded" one for top schools.
These college application essay tips will help you include the key elements that make your application stand out. Take time to study strong essay examples to understand what admissions officers expect. Before you start writing, think deeply about the prompt and how you can present a unique perspective that highlights your passion and expertise. Remember, this essay is your opportunity to showcase your spike—your world-class talent and dedication. Use it strategically to convince your future college that you belong among their most exceptional students. Strategic essay writing is key to a successful college application.
