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2026–27 application cycle

Brandeis University supplemental essays

Every writing prompt on the Brandeis University application, with word limits, taken from the application itself. 2 prompts, including program-specific ones.

  • Prompt 1Required250 words max

    Coming to Brandeis

    What excites you the most about being an international student at Brandeis University?

Program-specific prompts

These apply only if you are applying to the named program or school.

  • Myra Kraft Transitional Year Program (Achievers)Required250 words max

    What you bring

    The Myra Kraft Transitional Year Program (MKTYP) / Achievers Program is designed to guide you toward adjusting to the rigors and challenges of the college experience with a small cohort of peers. What strengths will you bring to the group, and in what areas will you benefit from the strengths of others?

    How to approach it

    For a challenge prompt, the challenge is the setup, not the essay. Spend most of the words on what you did and how you changed. Readers are wary of trauma used as currency; growth is the currency.

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Common questions

Brandeis University essays, answered

How many essays does Brandeis University require?

Brandeis University lists 2 writing supplements for the 2026–27 cycle, all required. That is on top of the main personal statement.

How long are the Brandeis University supplemental essays?

Word limits across the listed prompts add up to roughly 500 words. Budget real time for them: supplements are where admissions sees your specific interest in Brandeis University.

Do the Brandeis 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 Brandeis University essays.

Spike helps students connect each prompt to their own experiences, outline a response, and revise without ghostwriting.