Georgetown's Supplemental Essay Prompts

Georgetown University, founded in 1789, boasts a legacy deeply intertwined with American history and Catholic tradition. Georgetown’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs. However, what truly sets Georgetown apart is its emphasis on values, ethics, and social justice. The university’s location in the heart of Washington, D.C., provides students with opportunities for internships, research, and engagement with global issues. Georgetown’s Jesuit heritage fosters a strong sense of community, service, and a commitment to the common good, making it an ideal environment for students who are not only seeking a world-class education but also aspire to make a positive impact on society. Whether through its esteemed School of Foreign Service, commitment to interfaith dialogue, or emphasis on ethical leadership, Georgetown offers a unique educational experience that empowers students to become compassionate, informed, and globally-minded leaders.

GEORGETOWN ACCEPTANCE RATE

It’s no wonder that Georgetown University has become increasingly selective. Last year, Georgetown admitted 3,263 students out of 25,519 total applicants—a 13% acceptance rate for the undergraduate Class of 2027.

HOW TO APPLY TO GEORGETOWN

Applying to Georgetown is a 2-Step Process and they do not use the Common App:

Step One – Complete and submit the Georgetown Application. This form creates your official admissions file and initiates the alumni interview, conducted between September and February for first year applicants. (Check out our recent blog post on Alumni Interviews here)

Once you submit the Georgetown Application, you will receive an email with instructions on how to create your application account, so you can begin working on your application supplement.

Step Two – Complete and submit your Application Supplement by the application deadline. (Early Action: November 1, or Regular Decision: January 10)

TTA Top Tip: Georgetown does not participate in Score Choice and requires submission of each applicant’s complete testing record, including ALL SAT/ACT test scores (students must submit an official score report). Georgetown also recommends that students submit AP scores. Admitted students in the Class of 2027 scored between 720 to 770 on the verbal section of the SAT and 720 to 790 on the math section. On the ACT, admitted students scored in the 32-35 range. If you are aiming for Georgetown and have scores below or on the lower end of this range, we suggest working with an expert tutor ASAP to boost your scores!

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GEORGETOWN’S SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAY PROMPTS

Essays For All Georgetown Applicants

All Georgetown applicants must answer the following three essay prompts

1. Special Talents Essay
250 words maximum

ALL APPLICANTS: Please elaborate on any special talents or skills you would like to highlight.

2. Short Activity Essay
Approximately one-half page, single-spaced

ALL APPLICANTS: Briefly discuss the significance to you of the school or summer activity in which you have been most involved.

3. Personal Essay
Approximately one page, single-spaced

ALL APPLICANTS: As Georgetown is a diverse community, the Admissions Committee would like to know more about you in your own words. Please submit a brief personal or creative essay which you feel best describes you and reflects on your own background, identity, skills, and talents.

TTA Top Tip: Most students can use a version of their Common App main essay here!

Georgetown School-Specific Essays

Approximately one page, single-spaced

APPLICANTS TO GEORGETOWN COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES: A liberal arts education from the College of Arts & Sciences involves encounters with new concepts and modes of inquiry. Describe something (a class, a book, an event, etc.) that changed your thinking. (Applicants to the sciences, mathematics, public policy or languages are encouraged to include examples related to that field.)

TTA Top Tip: When tackling Georgetown University's School-Specific Essays, it's crucial to showcase your unique experience in your chosen field of study. For applicants to the College of Arts and Sciences (the oldest and largest undergraduate school), avoid superficial or clichéd responses; instead, delve deep into your personal growth and intellectual development through a specific example or anecdote. Articulate not just what you learned but also how it shaped your future goals and aspirations. Ultimately, the key is to convey your passion for intellectual exploration and demonstrate your readiness to engage with Georgetown's liberal arts education rigorously.

APPLICANTS TO THE SCHOOL OF NURSING: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying your intended major, Nursing.

APPLICANTS TO THE SCHOOL OF HEALTH: Describe the factors that have influenced your interest in studying health care at Georgetown University. Please specifically address your intended major (Global Health, Health Care Management & Policy, or Human Science).

APPLICANTS TO THE WALSH SCHOOL OF FOREIGN SERVICE: The Walsh School of Foreign Service was founded more than a century ago to prepare generations of leaders to solve global problems. What is motivating you to dedicate your undergraduate studies to a future in service to the world?

APPLICANTS TO THE MCDONOUGH SCHOOL OF BUSINESS: The McDonough School of Business is a national and global leader in providing graduates with essential ethical, analytical, financial and global perspectives. Please discuss your motivations for studying business at Georgetown.

Personal Boot Camp

Three days of one-on-one work with a Senior Counselor from the Application Boot Camp® team.

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Are you aiming for Georgetown University? Contact us today to discuss how you can use your winter break strategically and create the strongest possible application. Work with our expert counselors through our Essay Guidance Program or Personal Boot Camp.

Are all of your essays complete? Before you press “submit,” make sure you have set yourself up for success. Our Application Review Program will provide you with a comprehensive review of your entire application package, including essays, for one top-choice college, as well as analysis and counsel on your application strategy and a follow-up 1-hour Zoom or phone call.

Top Tier Admissions is tracking supplemental essay prompts for all top schools here — we look forward to supporting you!