2026–27 application cycle
American University supplemental essays
Every writing prompt on the American University application, with word limits, taken from the application itself. One prompt.
- Prompt 1Optional
What excites you
Describe a belief, hobby, idea, issue, or topic about which you're excited.
Common questions
American University essays, answered
How many essays does American University require?
American University lists 1 writing supplement for the 2026–27 cycle, of which 0 are required. That is on top of the main personal statement.
Do the American University supplemental essays matter?
Yes, and more as selectivity rises. Grades and scores put you in the pool; supplements are one of the few places you control what the reader learns about you, and a generic why-us essay is one of the most common self-inflicted wounds in admissions.
What Spike does with this
Get help planning American University essays.
Spike helps students connect each prompt to their own experiences, outline a response, and revise without ghostwriting.
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