2026–27 application cycle
Gonzaga University supplemental essays
Every writing prompt on the Gonzaga University application, with word limits. All of it taken from the application itself. 3 prompts, including program-specific ones.
- Prompt 1Optional300 words max
Standing with others
A Gonzaga education promotes dedication to human dignity, social justice, diversity, global engagement, solidarity with the vulnerable, and environmental stewardship. Reflecting on these values, how have you shown your commitment to standing for and with others in your actions?
- Prompt 2Optional300 words max
Who you'd invite
If you were able to invite any living person to come and speak to the GU community, who would it be? Why would you want to invite them?
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.
These prompts are program-specific.
They apply only if you’re applying to the named program or school.
- NursingOptional
Why nursing
What experiences have led you to choose the field of nursing? Why do you believe nursing is a good career path for you?
How to approach it
This is the most literal question on the application. Why this training, for your goals. Answer in that order. Name the goal first. Then point to the two or three parts of the program that serve it. Then show one thing you’ve already done that proves the goal is real.
Common questions
What do students ask about these essays?
How many essays does Gonzaga University require?
Gonzaga University lists 3 writing supplements for the 2026–27 cycle, and 0 of them are required. That’s on top of the main personal statement.
How long are the Gonzaga University supplemental essays?
Word limits across the listed prompts add up to about 600 words. Budget real time for them. Supplements are where admissions sees your real interest in Gonzaga University.
Do the Gonzaga 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 Gonzaga 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.