2026–27 application cycle

Stony Brook University supplemental essays

Every writing prompt on the Stony Brook University application, with word limits. All of it taken from the application itself. 2 prompts, including program-specific ones.

    These prompts are program-specific.

    They apply only if you’re applying to the named program or school.

    • University Honors Program (Honors College, University Scholars, or WISE)Required250 words max

      Why this Honors program

      Please discuss why you are a good fit for your preferred University Honors Program (Honors College, University Scholars, or WISE).

      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.

    • Scholars for Medicine / Scholars for Dental MedicineRequired650 words max

      Why medicine

      What aspects about medicine/dental medicine intrigue you? Describe how these aspects influence your life.
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    Common questions

    What do students ask about these essays?

    How many essays does Stony Brook University require?

    Stony Brook University lists 2 writing supplements for the 2026–27 cycle, all required. That’s on top of the main personal statement.

    How long are the Stony Brook University supplemental essays?

    Word limits across the listed prompts add up to about 900 words. Budget real time for them. Supplements are where admissions sees your real interest in Stony Brook University.

    Do the Stony Brook 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 Stony Brook 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.