WashU essay prompts
2026-27verified Washington University in St Louis admissions
These are the most recent published prompts. Final 2026-27 supplements typically land by early August.
Beyond Boundaries (BB applicants only)
In about 250 words, tell us what great challenge you might want to understand and tackle leveraging two or more of WashU's schools and how you would pursue an interdisciplinary path of study that explores that challenge or an aspect of that challenge in a unique and innovative way.
300 words max · Required
Academic Intellectual Interest
In about 250 words, tell us about something that really sparks your intellectual interest and curiosity, and compels you to explore more in the program/area of study that you indicated. It could be an idea, book, project, cultural activity, work of art, start-up, music, movie, research, innovation, question, or other pursuit.
300 words max · Required
Who Are You? — Community (Optional)
WashU supports engagement in the St. Louis community by considering the university as 'In St. Louis, For St. Louis.' What is a community you are a part of and your place or impact within it?
250 words max · Optional
Community
Tell us about a community you have been a part of and your role within it. How will you contribute to the WashU community?
200 words max · Required
Why Major
Please tell us what you are interested in studying at WashU and why.
200 words max · Required
Who Are You? — Story (Optional)
WashU strives to know every undergraduate student 'By Name & Story.' How have your life experiences shaped your story?
250 words max · Optional
Destination
Tell us about a destination or place that has been important to your life. How and why is this destination significant to you? (Maximum 200 words)
200 words max · Required
Transfer
Please tell us why you wish to transfer to Washington University in St. Louis. (Maximum 200 words)
200 words max · Required
Identity & Community
Washington University in St. Louis is a community of individuals from many different backgrounds. What about your personal background, perspective, or experiences would enrich the WashU community? (Maximum 200 words)
200 words max · Required
Academic Interest
If you are applying to one of WashU’s four undergraduate divisions or programs (Arts & Sciences, McKelvey School of Engineering, Olin Business School, or Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts), please tell us what specifically draws you to your intended area of study at WashU. (Maximum 200 words)
200 words max · Required
About the application
Applies via the Common App.
Make your next draft count.
Common questions
- What are the WashU essay prompts for 2026-27?
- WashU lists Beyond Boundaries (BB applicants only) (1 prompt); Academic Intellectual Interest (1 prompt); Who Are You? — Community (Optional) (1 prompt); Community (1 prompt); Why Major (1 prompt); Who Are You? — Story (Optional) (1 prompt); Destination (1 prompt); Transfer (1 prompt); Identity & Community (1 prompt); Academic Interest (1 prompt) for 2026-27.
- How many essays does WashU require?
- WashU requires 8 essays based on the published group instructions for 2026-27. The page lists 8 required and 2 optional prompts.
- What are the word limits for the WashU supplemental essays?
- The published word and character limits are 300 words max, 250 words max, 200 words max.