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DePauw

DePauw University

One optional 100-word prompt on leadership, short, sharp, and easy to waste.

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Supplemental essays

1 (optional)

Word limit

100 words

Personal statement

650 words (Common App)

Testing

Test-optional

What DePauw rewards

DePauw keeps it short. Alongside the Common App personal statement (650 words), first-year applicants get one optional supplemental essay capped at just 100 words. That is roughly a tight paragraph, so every word has to earn its place. DePauw is test-optional and charges no application fee, which lowers the barrier to apply and raises the value of anything that makes you memorable.

The prompt asks how you will grow your leadership at DePauw, not how you led in the past. The core challenge is resisting the urge to list accomplishments and instead naming one specific way DePauw will stretch you. Calling it "optional" is a trap. In a pool where most files look similar, the students who skip a free chance to talk directly to admissions are the ones who blend in.

01Forward motion, not a highlight reel. DePauw frames itself around preparing leaders. They want to see where you are headed, not a recap of titles you already hold. Essays that name a skill you still need to build read as honest and coachable.
02Specific knowledge of DePauw. With only 100 words, a generic answer that could be pasted into any school's form is the kiss of death. Naming a real program, course, residential community, or tradition signals you actually looked.
03Self-awareness. Strong responses admit a gap. A student who can say 'I lead loudly but listen poorly, and I want to fix that' shows the kind of reflection a liberal-arts college prizes.
04Economy of language. At this length, tight writing is itself a signal. A clean, concrete 100 words tells admissions you can think clearly under a constraint.

Essay prompts for 2026-2027

1 prompt for DePauw, each broken down with annotated examples.

The leadership growth prompt100 words (optional)

DePauw's mission is to prepare the leaders the world needs; in what ways do you intend to enhance your leadership strengths during your time at DePauw?

See all 1 prompt and get a read

Your chance

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Add your GPA, test scores, and profile to estimate your odds at DePauw and build a balanced list.

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Deadlines

Early Decision I / Early Action INov 1
Early Decision II / Early Action IIDec 15
Regular DecisionFeb 1
Application feeNone

Cost

Sticker price$74,320
Avg net after aid$30,507
Meets full needMost
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How to get inAcceptance rate, the GPA and SAT profile, and what DePauw weighs most Supplemental essays1 prompt, each broken down with annotated examples Cost & financial aidAverage $30,507/yr after aid · net price by income + calculator InterviewDoes DePauw interview? Format, tips, and practice The DePauw Reader ProScore your draft against DePauw's exact prompts
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DePauw FAQ

What is DePauw's acceptance rate?

DePauw admits a little more than half of applicants, with a reported rate around 54% to 57%. It is test-optional, and applicants who leave scores out are still considered for merit scholarships. The supplemental essay is optional, but in a pool this size a thoughtful 100 words is a cheap way to stand out, so treat "optional" as "strongly recommended.". At DePauw, a strong application essay and a well-balanced school list matter alongside your grades and test scores.

What supplemental essays does DePauw require?

DePauw requires 1 supplemental essay on its application. On EssayLens each prompt is broken down with annotated examples, and you can get a free admissions-style read of your draft against the exact prompt.

How much does DePauw cost?

DePauw's published sticker price is about $74,320 per year, but the average family pays $30,507 after financial aid. Your net price depends on your family income; use the calculator to estimate yours.

Does DePauw require SAT or ACT scores?

DePauw is test-optional: you can apply without SAT or ACT scores, and strong scores are just one factor among many when you do submit them.

When are DePauw's application deadlines?

DePauw's application deadlines are Early Decision I / Early Action I Nov 1; Early Decision II / Early Action II Dec 15; Regular Decision Feb 1; Application fee None. Add DePauw to your plan on EssayLens to track its deadlines automatically.

Campus photo via Wikipedia.

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