Writing Supplements

Hi! I know that the common app won’t be available until August, but I was really hoping to get a jump start on my essays. I have already seen the common app essay prompts, but I can’t find the Harvard supplements from this year. Does anyone know why? I was thinking that they might not be available until the common app is, but I just wanted to double check and see if anyone knew anything, especially since some schools (e.g. UChicago) have already released theirs. Thanks!

For the past several years, Harvard’s supplement has only had one required essay of about 150 words

In addition, there is this note about a writing supplement

Many student’s are accepted to Harvard WITHOUT submitting an additional essay. Many students are rejected who have submitted an additional essay. When deciding if and what you want to submit, student’s should examine their application and ask themselves: What story have I not included in the rest of my application?

Thank you so much!

@gibby I have a follow-up question if that’s okay! Am I correct in understanding that the first one you posted (explain an ec/job) is required and then the additional essay (about unusual circumstances, list of books, etc.) is optional?

^^ Yes the FIRST ONE is required – Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences. The additional essay and the topics suggested are optional.

Great, thank you again!