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Are Common App Essays Written in MLA Format?

Roxanne

By Roxanne

•

28 Nov 2024

Are Common App Essays Written in MLA Format? cover image

Are you getting started on your Common App essays and wondering if there is any specific format you need to follow? Many essays require different formats such as APA, MLA, Harvard etc. so you may be wondering if the Common App essay also needs to be formatted in a certain way. This post will outline whether Common App essays are written in MLA format so that you can plan your essay accordingly. 

 

 

Are Common App Essays Written in MLA Format?

 

 

Common App essays do not have to be written in MLA format. This is because there is no specific format such as MLA or APA required by the Common App. Admissions officers are interested in reading the content of your story rather than focusing on formatting details. MLA formatting also includes indents for new paragraphs which is not supported by the Common App essay text box as it does not allow students to add indents.

 

You are also not required to follow the traditional 5-paragraph structure as required in MLA format. The Common App essay is a way for you to express your creativity and students often choose a wide range of paragraph structures to emphasize their narrative, for example in this essay where the student has used an itinerary-style introduction to set the scene for their essay. It is recommended to have an introduction, body, and conclusion although this does not strictly need to be 5 paragraphs. 

 

Additionally, although there is no specific format required for a Common App essay, we have prepared a recommended list of formatting guidelines to keep in mind, so check out this post here to see them. 

 

We hope this guide has helped you identify the formatting of your Common App essay. Good luck with your college applications!