Located in Fort Worth, Texas, TCU is one of the top 100 colleges in the nation. So, as you prepare to apply, you should think carefully about your TCU supplemental essays. Depending on how you apply, you’ll write 1-3 TCU essays—we’ll expand on each of the required TCU essay prompts in this guide.
Overall, the TCU essay prompts are designed to help you show the admissions team what makes you unique. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to write Texas Christian University supplemental essays that highlight your strengths.
Keep reading to learn more about TCU admissions, the TCU application requirements, and the TCU supplemental essays.
The TCU admissions team uses a holistic review process. As mentioned in the TCU Quick Facts, the TCU acceptance rate is 54%, which makes this school relatively selective. While the TCU acceptance rate can change each year, you can expect the TCU acceptance rate to remain selective. This makes the TCU supplemental essays even more important.
However, don’t let the TCU acceptance rate intimidate you. In addition to the TCU essay prompts, you can use plenty of the TCU application requirements to highlight your strengths.
In addition to the TCU essays, the TCU admissions team requires the following:
Each of these TCU application requirements will contribute to your admissions outcome.
Additionally, some applicants may need to submit additional materials. For example, international applicants are required to submit an English proficiency test, and Early Decision applicants must submit an Early Decision agreement.
Yes, Texas Christian University cares about TCU essays. In fact, the TCU essays play a major role in the admissions process—so don’t neglect the TCU essay prompts.
Beyond your Common App Personal Essay, applicants must complete 1-2 TCU supplemental essays (depending on how they apply). These essays ask applicants to highlight how their values align with those of the TCU admissions team. So, in your Texas Christian University supplemental essays, you should foreground how your values inform your interactions with your community. Then, expand on your past experiences to discuss how these same values would help you enrich campus life at TCU.
Remember, well-crafted Texas Christian University supplemental essays are a great way to increase your admissions odds.
In any holistic application process, supplemental essays can make a major difference. Therefore, your TCU supplemental essays are your chance to speak directly to the TCU admissions team and highlight why you’d be a good fit for their school.
For selective colleges like TCU, essays can serve as a key way for students to stand out. So, look at each of your Texas Christian University supplemental essays as an opportunity to set yourself apart.
Want to write strong TCU supplemental essays? First, get organized. Before you sit down to write your TCU essays, take some time to brainstorm. This can help you flesh out your thoughts.
After you have an idea of the topics you’d like to discuss, make an outline. This will help you respond to every aspect of the TCU essay prompts thoughtfully and thoroughly—and make it easier to write a draft.
The Texas Christian University supplemental essays don’t look like conventional “why this college essays.” But, make no mistake, at their core, the TCU essays want you to highlight what makes TCU the perfect place for you.
This one may seem obvious, but many students fall victim to not answering the why school essay prompt. In these essays, you should steer clear of stats like the TCU acceptance rate or college rankings. Instead, you should draw clear parallels between your interests, accomplishments, and values and Texas Christian University.
For example, if you’re interested in biomedical research, you might discuss how TCU’s unique approach to this field engages you. Don’t just focus on TCU—instead, highlight how TCU directly serves your needs.
You’ve probably heard the term “fit” before. Essentially, college “fit” is about finding the right school for your needs—where your values, interests, and achievements align with the school’s ethos and offerings.
So, use the TCU essay prompts to highlight how you would be a good fit for TCU. In your TCU supplemental essays, look for specific examples of programs, values, and opportunities that make TCU the right match for you. Then, focus your Texas Christian University supplemental essays on these factors.
Texas Christian University values creative expression. To that end, TCU allows students an opportunity to share their creative work as part of their application. This is one of the more non-traditional TCU essay prompts, so feel free to submit a nontraditional answer to these TCU essay prompts.
Whether you submit an essay with a satirical tone, an art portfolio, or a video of a musical performance, the last of Texas Christian University supplemental essays lets you show a different side of yourself. If this optional prompt resonates with you, don’t hesitate to highlight your creativity.
After you have strong Texas Christian University supplemental essays, it’s time to proofread.
Strong TCU essays will be well-structured, with proper use of grammar and spelling. Find someone you trust to proofread your TCU essays for clarity and syntax. You might ask a parent, teacher, counselor, or college advisor for help.
Lastly, refer to this Texas Christian University supplemental essays guide often to help you craft competitive TCU essays.
Looking for more essay resources? Before you write your TCU supplemental essays, check out some of our other content designed to assist you with your TCU admissions application and TCU supplemental essays. You can also check out some of TCU’s resources including this webinar with TCU’s Dean of Admissions, Heath Einstein.
Want to write the perfect “why school essay”? This guide can give you more tips on tackling the first of the TCU supplemental essays. At their core, “why college essays” look for one thing—a strong argument as to why you belong at a particular school. Check out our guide for tips.
Looking for other Texas colleges for your list? Check out our Best Colleges in Texas guide for insights on top colleges around the state.
The more research you do, the stronger your Texas Christian University supplemental essays will be. Remember, writing a successful “why this college essay” requires you to understand what makes each school unique.
When reviewing your TCU supplemental essays, keep these tips in mind. The TCU admissions team wants to see how your profile aligns with TCU’s academic resources, university values, and campus culture. So, use your TCU essays to show them—and get one step closer to an acceptance letter.
Do some thorough research on TCU, starting with the TCU admissions website. Setting up a campus visit can also be a great way to explore TCU and learn whether you can envision yourself on campus. It can also give you some details to include in your TCU supplemental essays.
The more you know about your college of choice, the better your supplemental essays will be. However, you shouldn’t just research TCU—you should also think critically about your own interests and goals. The more you know about what you want in a college—and how you can make your chosen college a better place—the stronger your essays will be.
This TCU essay guide was written by AO, Chelsea Holley. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
