Clark supplemental essays

Clark asks for one supplemental essay of about 250 words, and you choose between two prompts (a community story or a story about making a positive impact with others). Clark technically labels it optional but strongly encourages everyone to answer, so treat it as required. Honors College applicants write one additional essay of 200 to 350 words. You also submit the Common App personal statement.

There are two options, and you answer one. Option A: 'The communities we belong to shape our values, our aspirations, and who we are as people. Share a story of a community that has impacted you the most and how it will influence your time as a member of the Clark community.' Option B: 'At Clark, we are a force for change. We work together to improve the lives of others and the future of our planet. Share a story of how you've worked with others to make a positive impact.'

The limit is 250 words. Aim for roughly 230 to 250 so you use the space without padding. At this length you should open inside a story immediately and skip any general introduction about why community or change matters.

Clark lists the supplement as optional but strongly encourages every applicant to respond. Because Clark reads holistically and is test-optional, a strong 250-word essay genuinely helps your case, so in practice you should write it. Skipping it leaves a free chance to stand out on the table.

Yes. Clark is test-optional for first-year applicants, and you are considered for admission and merit scholarships without submitting scores. Only about 23% of admitted students submitted test scores, which is part of why your essays carry extra weight.

Early Decision I and Early Action are both due November 1, 2025. Early Decision II and Regular Decision are due January 15, 2026. Early Decision I and II are binding; Early Action is non-binding. Always confirm current dates on clarku.edu, since Clark has extended Regular Decision in some recent cycles.