<p>So on the CDS for MIT it says that the essay is "considered." This kind of ticked me off, because I spent a lot of time and creative thought on my essay. What do they mean by "considered"?... How much weight does that mean that it carries?</p>
<p>I want to know too... so bump</p>
<p>I think it's a little futile to try to put weights on the different factors in the admissions process at schools like MIT.</p>
<p>The essay is definitely important, and it's a good thing that you spent a lot of time on it. When there are so many great candidates vying for so few spots, a great essay can really make an impact. Most likely, the essay gains more importance if a candidate is really competitive -- a great essay probably won't get someone in with a lackluster application, but someone with an otherwise great application probably won't get in with a lackluster essay.</p>
<p>On the flip side of Mollie's point, a really bad essay can definitely hurt you.</p>
<p>oh so it's another one of those won't-get-you-in-but-can-keep-you-out things? :P</p>
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oh so it's another one of those won't-get-you-in-but-can-keep-you-out things? :P
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<p>Not necessarily. A really good essay (though "good" may not mean what you think it means in this case) can certainly give you an extra edge. The essays can show things about you (positive and negative) which are important to Admissions which don't come through elsewhere. But awesome essays won't redeem an otherwise mediocre application, and a really bad essay can raise a red flag about what was otherwise a strong application.</p>