Are you applying to a college in Texas? Pretty much all of them use ApplyTexas— whether they’re public or private, two-year or four. And their essay prompts are tricky — unusually open-ended, and with no suggested word limit.

To set yourself up for success, we at Prompt have a few insights for you:

• Be succinct: Pretend there is a word limit. In fact, pretend that limit is between 500 and 600 words. Rambling is easy, but it’s not a good look. Being short is hard, but it makes for a more impressive essay.
• Think about YOU first, then choose your prompt: If your schools allow you a choice (some don’t), start by thinking about what experience or attribute best shows your ability to succeed in college and beyond. Once you have that answer, choose the prompt that will allow you to tell that story.
• Get personalized help: These are some of the 500 words that are going to matter the most in your entire career. Could you benefit from professional feedback? If so, we do this all the time, and we’d love to help you get started, or get feedback on a draft. Check us out here.

ApplyTexas Essay Prompts 2020-2021

• Essay A: Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?
• Essay B: Most students have an identity, an interest, or a talent that defines them in an essential way. Tell us about yourself.
• Essay C: You’ve got a ticket in your hand – Where will you go? What will you do? What will happen when you get there?

While there’s no strict word limit, Prompt recommends keeping your essay between 500 and 600 words.