Yale Supplement Essay Prompts & Examples
Yale University asks applicants to respond to supplemental essay prompts that highlight their intellectual curiosity, values, and contributions to a diverse campus community. These essays allow admissions officers to see beyond grades and test scores, offering insight into your passions, experiences, and personal character. Below are the most recent Yale supplemental essay prompts, along with examples from students who were accepted to Yale.
Yale Essay Prompts 2025/26
Short answer questions
Students at Yale have time to explore their academic interests before committing to one or more major fields of study. Many students either modify their original academic direction or change their minds entirely. As of this moment, what academic areas seem to fit your interests or goals most comfortably? Please indicate up to three from the list provided.
Tell us about a topic or idea that excites you and is related to one or more academic areas you selected above. Why are you drawn to it?
(200 word limit)
Reflect on how your interests, values, and/or experiences have drawn you to Yale.
(125 word limit)
Respond to the following short answer questions, in no more than 200 characters (approximately 35 words):
What inspires you?
If you could teach any college course, write a book, or create an original piece of art of any kind, what would it be?
Other than a family member, who is someone who has had a significant influence on you? What has been the impact of their influence?
What is something about you that is not included anywhere else in your application?
Respond to one of the following prompts in 400 words or fewer.
1. Reflect on a time you discussed an issue important to you with someone holding an opposing view. Why did you find the experience meaningful?
2. Reflect on your membership in a community to which you feel connected. Why is this community meaningful to you? You may define community however you like.
3. Reflect on an element of your personal experience that you feel will enrich your college. How has it shaped you?
