<p>How long was it? (word count)
Did you write an essay specifically for IU, or did you reuse another college essay?</p>
<p>I am also wondering if the essay plays a major role in the admissions process... I'm guessing it doesn't, especially because it's optional.</p>
<p>My D did not send an essay with her initial application so I can’t answer your question. I will say though, that of course the Common Application, which is used for many colleges, uses your SAME essay for all colleges (and then their supplements usually ask for more, but I’m saying people reuse their same essay for many/most colleges a lot of the time).</p>
<p>I did want to say though, if you’re hoping to be in the running for any Selective Scholarships (they they do hope to get those applications by November 1st for best consideration)…THEN you will HAVE to include an essay (3 actually, but 2 are very short). So…keep that in mind if you’re going to send an essay now, along with your application.</p>
<p>My essay was exactly one page, Times New Roman size 12 Font with 1.5 Spacing. I couldn’t tell you how many words it was; I deleted it after I sent in my app.</p>
<p>It was just for IU, and wasn’t that good. I spent like 15 minutes on it.</p>
<p>I sent it in with my transcript and was accepted. I’m pretty sure it’s the ONLY reason I got in too. If you’re borderline (I wasn’t even borderline, I was flat out below average), it will likely put you over the edge.</p>
<p>Thanks for the info about the Selective Scholarships program, R124687. I had no idea about the essay requirement.</p>
<p>ImOnABoat, I’m pretty much borderline (GPAs not the highest), so that’s great news. 
Hopefully my essay will win them over.</p>