Brandeis University essay prompts
2026-27verified Brandeis University admissions
These are the most recent published prompts. Final 2026-27 supplements typically land by early August.
Why Brandeis
The Brandeis community is defined by its commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake. We know that you are more than your test scores and grades. Tell us why Brandeis is a place where you will thrive. (500 words max)
500 words max · Required
Diverse Community & Social Justice
Brandeis University is proud to be a community of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. We believe that diversity of all kinds – of thought, identity, culture, and perspective – is essential to a vibrant intellectual community and to our mission of social justice. Please share how your background, experiences, or identities have shaped your perspective and how you hope to contribute to the Brandeis community. (250 words max)
250 words max · Required
Optional Additional Information
If there is anything else you would like to share with the Admissions Committee that you have not already had the opportunity to tell us in your application, please do so here. (250 words max)
250 words max · Optional
Optional COVID-19 Impact
If you would like to share how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected you personally, academically, or in your community, please tell us about it here. This response is optional and will not be used in a negative way. (250 words max)
250 words max · Optional
About the application
Applies via the Common App.
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Common questions
- What are the Brandeis University essay prompts for 2026-27?
- Brandeis University lists Why Brandeis (1 prompt); Diverse Community & Social Justice (1 prompt); Optional Additional Information (1 prompt); Optional COVID-19 Impact (1 prompt) for 2026-27.
- How many essays does Brandeis University require?
- Brandeis University requires 2 essays based on the published group instructions for 2026-27. The page lists 2 required and 2 optional prompts.
- What are the word limits for the Brandeis University supplemental essays?
- The published word and character limits are 500 words max, 250 words max.