2026–27 Common App cycle · Lewisburg, PA

Bucknell University supplemental essays

1 prompt, 1 required, about 250 words in total. Below: each prompt, what it is really asking, where drafts go wrong, and the shape of an answer that works.

1prompt · 1 required
250words, all prompts at max
33%admit rate · Selective
2026–27current cycle
Check your Bucknell University drafts against these prompts →

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The prompts, one by one

  1. Major interest and why Bucknellup to 250 words · Why this major

    “Please explain your interest in your first-choice major/undecided status and your second-choice major (should you opt to list one) and why you would choose Bucknell University to pursue your interest(s).”

    What it's really asking

    The moment this subject stopped being a class and became a question you couldn't drop. Bucknell University wants evidence you've chosen on purpose, not by default.

    Where drafts go wrong

    Turning it into a résumé: grades, awards and "I have always been passionate about." A list of achievements is not a reason to study something. Grand missions ("to cure cancer") read as borrowed.

    The shape of a strong answer

    One specific experience, one specific confusion or question it left you with, and what you did about it on your own. Then one or two things in Bucknell University's version of the major that match that question. Small and real beats big and vague.

Every US applicant also writes the Common App personal statement: 650 words, seven prompts. Don't repeat it here; the supplements are for what the statement didn't show.

A self-check before you submit

Cover the school name and read the essay. Then cover your name and read it again. It should fail the first test (it only makes sense for Bucknell University) and pass the second (only you could have written it). If it passes the first test, it's a brochure. If it fails the second, it's a template.

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Other schools' prompts

Prompts verified September 2026 against Bucknell University's published application. Admission facts and requirements for Bucknell University are on its university page. Spotted a change? Tell us.