Essay test prompts

For the 2021-22 application cycle, the Common Application essay prompts remain unchanged from the 2020-21 cycle with the exception of an all new option #4. As in the past, with the inclusion of the popular "Topic of Your Choice" option, you have the opportunity to write about anything you want to share with the folks in the admissions office.

The directions below are representative of what students will encounter on test day. The essay gives you an opportunity to show how effectively you can read and comprehend a passage and write an essay analyzing the passage.

"Write an essay in which you explain how Richard Schiffman builds an argument to persuade his audience that Americans need to work fewer hours." Special note: The prompt for Practice Test 4 also appears on the College Board's site with real sample essays written in response.

Dr. Allen Grove is an Alfred University English professor and a college admissions expert with 20 years of experience helping students transition to college. For the 2021-22 application cycle, the Common Application essay prompts remain unchanged from the 2020-21 cycle with the exception of an all new option #4.