2025-26 prompts · 2026–27 not yet confirmed · Columbus, OH
Ohio State University supplemental essays
1 prompt, 0 required, 1 optional, about 500 words in total. Below: each prompt, what it is really asking, where drafts go wrong, and the shape of an answer that works.
Free, no card. Paste a draft and Admitify reads it line by line against the prompt. It never writes for you.
These are Ohio State University's 2025-26 prompts. The 2026–27 wording was not yet published when this page was verified. Most schools keep prompts the same or change them lightly; confirm on ohiostatebuckeyes.com before you submit.
The prompts, one by one
- Morrill Scholarship Program essay (optional)350-500 words · Program essay
“The Morrill Scholarship Program encourages students to lead with character while making a positive impact on their communities. In what ways have your life experiences and/or endeavors prepared you to be an active Morrill Scholar who will champion scholarship, leadership, and civic engagement while investing in Ohio State's culture of service reflective of its land grant mission? Please answer fully, and when possible, provide specific examples.”
What it's really askingWhy this specific program at Ohio State University, and whether you understand what it adds beyond the regular degree. Honors and scholar programs read these for fit with how they teach, not for how impressive you are.
Where drafts go wrongTreating it as another "why us" or restating your transcript. Not mentioning anything the program actually does.
The shape of a strong answerName one thing the program does that the regular path doesn't (seminars, research, cohort, a specific project) and connect it to something you've already done. Show you'd use it, not just qualify for it.
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 Ohio State 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.
Run your draft through Admitify, free →Prompts verified September 2026 against Ohio State University's published application. Admission facts and requirements for Ohio State University are on its university page. Spotted a change? Tell us.