Washington University in St. Louis
A research university in the Midwest with strong programs across medicine, architecture, and the arts.
- Next deadline
- Nov 1, 2026Early Decision
- Essays
- 1Prompt
- Supplement
- Required2026-2027 cycle
- Platform
- Common AppAccepted platform
- Selectivity
- 11.2%Selective
- Enrollment
- 7,653Mid-size undergrad
Build your Washington University in St. Louis application plan
Track the deadline, review every supplemental essay prompt, and shape each response around one clear admissions story.
Application deadlines
Supplemental essay prompts
- Supplement250 words2026-2027
Please tell us what you are interested in studying at college and why. Undecided about your academic interest? Tell us about your intellectual passions — what excites you and why.
How to approach Washington University in St. Louis's supplemental essays
Choose a role before you draft
Decide what this essay should add to the application: evidence, range, bridge, or a new window into your life. Avoid repeating the Common App essay in miniature.
Use this as a blank structure for a Washington University in St. Louis supplement response, then replace every bracket with your own specifics.
- Open on [specific scene, object, problem, or conversation].
- Show what [choice/action/constraint] reveals about how you think.
- Connect that trait to [school program, community, lab, class, or value].
- End with the contribution you want to make at Washington University in St. Louis, not a compliment.
Need more help with this application?
Use our guides to plan your supplement, sharpen your Why Us research, and review your draft before you submit.
Frequently asked questions
How many supplemental essays does Washington University in St. Louis require?
Washington University in St. Louis has 1 supplemental essay listed for the 2026-2027 application cycle, in addition to the shared application essay.
Does Washington University in St. Louis accept the Common Application?
Yes — Washington University in St. Louis accepts the Common Application.
What is Washington University in St. Louis's acceptance rate?
Washington University in St. Louis's most recently reported acceptance rate is 11.2%.
When is Washington University in St. Louis's next application deadline?
Washington University in St. Louis's next listed application deadline is the Early Decision round on November 1, 2026.
What does Washington University in St. Louis's supplement essay prompt ask (250 words)?
Please tell us what you are interested in studying at college and why. Undecided about your academic interest? Tell us about your intellectual passions — what excites you and why.
Sources and verification
We prioritize Washington University in St. Louis's official admissions pages for school-specific prompts and deadlines, then use application-platform and federal sources as cross-checks. This record is labeled for the 2026-2027 cycle but still needs a fresh verification pass.
Review official source →