2026–27 application cycle
Seattle University supplemental essays
Every writing prompt on the Seattle University application, with word limits. All of it taken from the application itself. 5 prompts, including program-specific ones.
- Prompt 1Optional250 words max
Why Seattle U
Located in one of the world's top cities for technology and innovation and deeply rooted in 500 years of Jesuit tradition, a Seattle University education is innovative, rigorous, global and holistic. We encourage students to challenge preconceived notions, reflect before they react, and strive for the greater good. What is it that drew you to apply to Seattle University? Where do you hope a Seattle University education will take you?
How to approach it
This is a why-us prompt. The trap is describing the school back to itself. Rankings and a pretty campus read as filler. Name two or three things you’d actually use. A program, a professor’s work, an open curriculum. Then tie each one to something you’ve already done.
- Prompt 2Optional250 words max
Belonging and inclusion
At Seattle University we are inspired by the diversity of our campus community and are committed to a culture where equity, inclusion and belonging are hallmarks of who we are. Tell us about an experience you have had involving equity, inclusion or belonging—whether through celebration, inspiration, challenge or adversity—and why it was meaningful to you and how it would demonstrate your unique ability to contribute to the university.
How to approach it
This is a why-us prompt. The trap is describing the school back to itself. Rankings and a pretty campus read as filler. Name two or three things you’d actually use. A program, a professor’s work, an open curriculum. Then tie each one to something you’ve already done.
These prompts are program-specific.
They apply only if you’re applying to the named program or school.
- Nursing (College of Nursing and Health Sciences)Required250 words max
Why nursing at SU
The nursing program is a competitive program that admits students directly to the four-year nursing cohort. The College of Nursing and Health Sciences' mission is to educate and inspire leaders to transform health care for a just and humane world. Why are you applying to the nursing program at Seattle University and what aspects of the profession uniquely excite you?
How to approach it
This is a why-us prompt. The trap is describing the school back to itself. Rankings and a pretty campus read as filler. Name two or three things you’d actually use. A program, a professor’s work, an open curriculum. Then tie each one to something you’ve already done.
- Diagnostic Ultrasound, BSRequired250 words max
Why Diagnostic Ultrasound
The Diagnostic Ultrasound program at Seattle University is a competitive program that admits students directly to the four-year Diagnostic Ultrasound cohort. The College of Nursing and Health Science's mission is to educate and inspire leaders to transform healthcare for a just and humane world. Why are you applying to the Diagnostic Ultrasound program at Seattle University and what aspects of the profession uniquely excite you?
How to approach it
This is a why-us prompt. The trap is describing the school back to itself. Rankings and a pretty campus read as filler. Name two or three things you’d actually use. A program, a professor’s work, an open curriculum. Then tie each one to something you’ve already done.
- Cornish College of the ArtsRequired
Your artist statement
Your artist statement is a way to introduce yourself and your work. We are interested in finding out more about you as an individual, your artistic practice, and why you believe Cornish College of the Arts at Seattle University is the right college for you.
How to approach it
This is a why-us prompt. The trap is describing the school back to itself. Rankings and a pretty campus read as filler. Name two or three things you’d actually use. A program, a professor’s work, an open curriculum. Then tie each one to something you’ve already done.
Common questions
What do students ask about these essays?
How many essays does Seattle University require?
Seattle University lists 5 writing supplements for the 2026–27 cycle, and 3 of them are required. That’s on top of the main personal statement.
How long are the Seattle 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 Seattle University.
Do the Seattle 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 Seattle 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.