2026–27 application cycle
Howard University supplemental essays
Every writing prompt on the Howard University application, with word limits. All of it taken from the application itself. 3 prompts, including program-specific ones.
- Prompt 1Optional500 words max
Your Perspective
Diversity of all kinds is important to enriching the educational experience at Howard University. Please share with us anything in your background or lived experience that has shaped your perspectives and how that would contribute to the classroom and community at Howard.
How to approach it
Here, specific beats important. A small, true community described from the inside beats a broad label. Write it as someone who was there, not as an observer. End on what you carry into a campus, not on a moral.
- Prompt 2Optional500 words max
Major & Goals
Please describe the major you intend to study and how you hope to use your Howard education to support you in achieving your passions and goals. Please address your first-choice and second-choice major selections.
How to approach it
This prompt wants the origin story and the proof, not your resume. Pick the moment the interest became yours. Show one or two things you did about it on your own. Let the school see how you think when nobody assigns the work.
These prompts are program-specific.
They apply only if you’re applying to the named program or school.
- BS/MD and BS/DDS Accelerated Degree ProgramsRequired
Why medicine or dentistry
An essay demonstrating your interest in Medicine or Dentistry, highlighting your dedication to serve those who may be less privileged than yourself
Common questions
What do students ask about these essays?
How many essays does Howard University require?
Howard University lists 3 writing supplements for the 2026–27 cycle, and 1 of them is required. That’s on top of the main personal statement.
How long are the Howard University supplemental essays?
Word limits across the listed prompts add up to about 1,000 words. Budget real time for them. Supplements are where admissions sees your real interest in Howard University.
Do the Howard University supplemental essays matter?
Yes, and more so at the hardest schools to get into. Grades and scores put you in the pool. Supplements are one of the few places you control what the reader learns about you. A generic why-us essay is one of the most common mistakes students make.
What Spike does with this
Get help planning Howard University essays.
Spike helps you tie each prompt to something you’ve actually lived. It helps you outline and revise, and it won’t write the essay for you.
The full counselor launches in November.