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Yale University

New Haven, Connecticut4-yearPrivate

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Yale University’s 2024-25 Essay Prompts

Why This Major Short Response

Required
200 Words

Students at Yale have time to explore their academic interests before committing to one or more major fields of study. Many students either modify their original academic direction or change their minds entirely. As of this moment, what academic areas seem to fit your interests or goals most comfortably?

Tell us about a topic or idea that excites you and is related to one or more academic areas you selected above. Why are you drawn to it?

Standardized Test Short Response

Not Required
100 Words

If you experienced a significant challenge associated with preparing for or completing the standardized test(s) you selected, you may provide details here.

Why This College Short Response

Required
125 Words

What is it about Yale that has led you to apply?

Select-A-Prompt Essay

Required
200 Characters

Please respond in no more than 200 characters (approximately 35 words or fewer), to each of the following questions:


Option 1

What inspires you?


Option 2

If you could teach any college course, write a book, or create an original piece of art of any kind, what would it be?


Option 3

Other than a family member, who is someone who has had a significant influence on you? What has been the impact of their influence?


Option 4

What is something about you that is not included anywhere else in your application?

Select-A-Prompt Short Response

Required
400 Words

Please respond to one of the following prompts in 400 words or fewer. Please indicate the number of the prompt you choose.


Option 1

Reflect on a time you discussed an issue important to you with someone holding an opposing view. Why did you find the experience meaningful?


Option 2

Reflect on your membership in a community to which you feel connected. Why is this community meaningful to you? You may define community however you like.


Option 3

Reflect on an element of your personal experience that you feel will enrich your college. How has it shaped you?

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