Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Brennan Barnard writes about the nuances of college admission. If you are looking for the “secret formula” for writing a “winning” ...

In a new study, researchers developed a series of artificial intelligence tools that can scan through essays in college applications, picking out evidence of key personal traits. That includes ...

In the 2026 admissions cycle, college essays are more influential than ever as test-optional policies persist and application numbers rise. Experts stress vulnerability, specificity, and demonstrating ...

Every year, prospective college students are challenged with writing an admissions essay that not only tells their story but also makes them stand out in a way that compels the admissions officer to ...

“My Common App essay is one of the best things I’ve written,” Krishna says. “It is basically everything that I am in one piece of paper — a crash course to myself.” College essays loom large for high ...

High school students who use artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT to write college application or scholarship essays may not have the best chance at being selected, experts say, because the ...