What's the difference between common app essay and personal statement?

saintfan
Fri, 09 Dec 2011 11:47:08 +0000

They are not exactly the same thing necessarily but can be. Most state universities require a “personal statement” and the ones in out state that do offer a couple prompts to choose from. The classic default prompt aligns with prompt #1 from the common app. Other schools might use a different slant - some ask about diversity, challenges, academic goals, etc. The term “personal statement” is a catch-all for a longer (500ish word) essay that is not specifically the common app.
What you need to do is read their directions and send them what they ask for. It will be there in specific terms.