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2026–27 application cycle

Stony Brook University supplemental essays

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

    Program-specific prompts

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

    • University Honors Program (Honors College, University Scholars, or WISE)Required250 words max

      Why this Honors program

      Please discuss why you are a good fit for your preferred University Honors Program (Honors College, University Scholars, or WISE).

      How to approach it

      This is a why-us prompt. The trap is describing the school back to itself; rankings and campus beauty read as filler. Name the two or three specific things (a program, a professor's work, a structure like open curriculum) you would actually use, and tie each to something you have already done.

    • Scholars for Medicine / Scholars for Dental MedicineRequired650 words max

      Why medicine

      What aspects about medicine/dental medicine intrigue you? Describe how these aspects influence your life.
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    Common questions

    Stony Brook University essays, answered

    How many essays does Stony Brook University require?

    Stony Brook 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 Stony Brook University supplemental essays?

    Word limits across the listed prompts add up to roughly 900 words. Budget real time for them: supplements are where admissions sees your specific interest in Stony Brook University.

    Do the Stony Brook 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 Stony Brook University essays.

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