Common App Optional Essay

Are the common app essays truly optional for a school that lists them as optional? Or should a student always submit them when given the option? Do schools look badly upon students who do not submit them? Thanks!

Only the schools can answer that.

Most will say optional = required and I would. But are schools not letting kids in if they don’t submit ? Doubtful - I’m sure some get in

If you have it written, why not submit it ?

My kid’s guidance counselors (who were both excellent) told them that optional essays are not optional if you want to maximize your chance of an acceptance.

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And / or merit I’m sure.