Chapman University

Admission at Chapman University

Chapman University admits about 59% of applicants, which makes it less selective. Admission is holistic: four years of transcript and course rigor first, then essays and activities, then recommendations and test scores. Grades and rigor carry most of the decision; well-written essays and a clear intended major help at the margin.

GCC applicants: international curricula (IB, American Diploma with APs, A-levels) are read in their own terms. English proficiency tests are usually waived for English-medium schools; check the university's waiver rule. Saudi students on a Ministry scholarship should confirm the programme is on the approved list before applying Early Decision.

Chapman University supplemental essays, 2026-27

1. Personal experience essay (choose one of two)200 words

   Our committee would like to hear about a personal experience or lesson that has helped you better understand who you are now and/or appreciate a perspective different from your own. How would you utilize this understanding to contribute to the values and welcoming fabric of our campus community? Part of the Chapman experience is to help students expand their perspectives. How will you grow personally and/or learn more about others throughout your time at Chapman?

2. Why Chapman?200 words

   Out of the thousands of universities and colleges, what excites you about attending Chapman University specifically?

3. Why major? (declared applicants)200 words

   Please tell us about your interest in the major you selected.

4. Academic interests (undeclared applicants)200 words

   Chapman University encourages academic exploration through our dynamic liberal arts curriculum. It's okay to be unsure of what you might want to major in. Please tell us about the academic areas that interest you currently.

5. Panther Profile: hometown challenge

   The 'Chapman Challenge' combines going to the mountains, Disneyland, and the beach in one day. If you designed a challenge to showcase your hometown or community, what three stops would be on the itinerary?

6. Panther Profile: place with a line

   Chapman students often line up at Philz Coffee, Bruxie, or The Taco Stand. What is a place that attracts a line in your community?

7. Panther Profile: where you gather

   Chapman students often gather with friends at the Attallah Piazza (heart of campus), Argyros Forum (student union) or the Masson Family Beach Club (on-campus outdoor pool). Where do you gather with friends?

8. Panther Profile: your catchphrase

   Pete the Panther (our mascot), our students, and our community love to show Chapman pride by using the catchphrase 'Paws Up!' What is your catchphrase?

9. Panther Profile: SoCal experience

   Chapman's location puts students in the heart of Southern California, with access to beaches, major cities, entertainment, outdoor recreation, and career opportunities. What part of the SoCal experience are you most excited to explore?

10. Panther Profile: fall concert headliner

    Chapman's student-led University Program Board hosts a concert each fall for students. If you could choose any artist, band, or entertainer to headline the fall event, who would you pick?

11. Panther Profile: Master Class guest

    Chapman's Dodge College of Film and Media Arts hosts many Master Classes featuring celebrities, open to all students, each year. This year's classes included, amongst others, Ariana Grande, the Duffer Brothers of Stranger Things fame (Chapman BFA, 2007), Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Spike Lee. Who would you like to hear from in your first year at Chapman?

Every US applicant also writes the Common App personal statement: 650 words, seven prompts. Admitify's coach reads drafts line by line and never writes for the student.

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