Most of the university admission requirements are published to the public. Students who would like to apply abroad for elite colleges put their heart and soul towards achieving grades worthy of these top schools. However, it may come to a point where even straight hard work couldn’t cut it. Some admission officers are tired of the same routines required of students and they decide to put up quirky yet interesting application essay questions to test the creativity of their would-be students.
These interesting and pop-culture application essay questions are designed to challenge students and make the university admissions process more enjoyable, and also test students’ ability to think out of the box.
Here is a list of 2019-2020 application essay questions from popular universities.
- What song should we be listening to while reading your application?
(Chapman University) - Defend an unpopular opinion you hold.
(University of Notre Dame)
- Caltech students are often known for their sense of humor and creative pranks. What do you like to do for fun?
(California Institute of Technology) - In keeping with Rice’s long-standing tradition (known as “The Box”), please share an image of something that appeals to you.
(Rice University) - We want to understand you better! Tell us about a skill you have (useless or useful) and what it says about you.
(Pomona College) - The Hawaiian word mo’olelo is often translated as “story” but it can also refer to history, legend, genealogy, and tradition. Use one of these translations to introduce yourself.
(Dartmouth College) - Name three songs from your perfect playlist.
(Elon University) - If asked to write a 150-word tweet to tell the world who you are, what would you say?
(Emory University) - A hot dog might be a sandwich, and cereal might be a soup, but is a ______ a ______?
(University of Chicago) - Pick one woman in history or fiction to converse with for an hour and explain your choice. What would you talk about?
(Barnard College) - List the titles of the films, concerts, shows, exhibits, lectures and other entertainments you enjoyed most in the past year.
(Columbia University) - Imagine you had an extra hour in the day — how would you spend that time?
(Stanford University) - You are required to spend the next year in either the past or the future. To what year would you travel and why?
(University of Richmond)
Take the time to start brainstorming, designing and modifying your answers. Don’t rush to complete them even if they look easy to you!
If you encounter any problems tackling these essay questions, Tuding Education will be able to provide a full range of coaching and help you in your dream university admission.