How Many Essays Does Mercer Require? Tips for Writing Stellar Mercer Essays Common Mistakes to Avoid FAQs

Mercer University, located in Macon, Georgia, is a highly ranked private university with a long history of academic excellence. The school offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including several top-ranked business programs.

As part of the Mercer University application process, all applicants must submit a series of essays. The number of essays required depends on the program to which you are applying.

Undergraduate Admissions

For undergraduate admissions, all applicants must submit the following two essays:

1. Common Application Essay: Prompt: Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
2. Mercer-Specific Essay: Prompt: How can you contribute to the Mercer community, and how will Mercer help you achieve your personal and professional goals?

Graduate Admissions

For graduate admissions, the number of essays required varies depending on the program to which you are applying. However, most graduate programs require at least one essay, and some require two or more.

The following are some examples of the essay prompts that may be required for graduate admissions:

• MBA Program: Prompt: Why are you pursuing an MBA at this time, and what are your career goals? How will an MBA from Mercer help you achieve your goals?
• MS in Computer Science Program: Prompt: Describe your research interests and how they align with the research interests of the faculty in the MS in Computer Science program.
• PhD in Educational Leadership Program: Prompt: What are your research interests and how do they align with the research interests of the faculty in the PhD in Educational Leadership program?

Additional Information

In addition to the essays required for admission, some programs may also require applicants to submit a statement of purpose, a resume, or letters of recommendation.

It is important to note that the Mercer University application deadlines vary depending on the program to which you are applying. Be sure to check the deadlines for your specific program before submitting your application.

Your Mercer essays are your chance to make a strong impression on the admissions committee. To make sure your essays are top-notch, follow these tips:

• Start early. The Mercer application deadlines can be early, so it’s important to start working on your essays early. This will give you plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and revise your essays.
• Brainstorm ideas. Before you start writing, take some time to brainstorm ideas for your essays. Consider your strengths, your goals, and what makes you unique.
• Write a strong thesis statement. Your thesis statement is the central argument of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and specific.
• Use specific examples. To support your thesis statement, use specific examples from your own experiences. These examples will help to make your essay more personal and persuasive.
• Proofread carefully. Before you submit your essays, proofread them carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation.

When writing your Mercer essays, be sure to avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t repeat information from your application. Your essays should provide new insights into your character and qualifications that aren’t already covered in your application.
• Don’t be vague or general. Your essays should be specific and detailed. Avoid using vague or general language that doesn’t provide the admissions committee with a clear picture of who you are and what you’re all about.
• Don’t be negative. Your essays should be positive and upbeat. Avoid dwelling on negative experiences or dwelling on your weaknesses.
• Don’t overstate your qualifications. Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Don’t overstate your qualifications or make yourself sound like someone you’re not.

1. How long should my essays be?

Your essays should be between 250 and 500 words each.

2. How many essays should I submit?

For undergraduate admissions, you must submit two essays. For graduate admissions, the number of essays required varies depending on the program to which you are applying.

3. What should I write about in my essays?

Your essays should provide the admissions committee with a clear picture of who you are, what your goals are, and why you’re a good fit for Mercer University.

4. When are the Mercer University application deadlines?

The Mercer University application deadlines vary depending on the program to which you are applying. Be sure to check the deadlines for your specific program before submitting your application.

5. Where can I get help with my essays?

The Mercer University Writing Center offers free tutoring and workshops to help students with their writing.

6. What are some good resources for brainstorming essay ideas?

The Mercer University website and the Mercer University Writing Center website both offer a variety of resources to help students brainstorm essay ideas.

7. How can I make my essays stand out from the crowd?

Be yourself and let your voice shine through in your essays. Avoid using clichés or generic language. Instead, focus on sharing your unique story and experiences.

8. What are the most common mistakes that applicants make on their Mercer essays?

The most common mistakes that applicants make on their Mercer essays include:
* Repeating information from the application
* Being vague or general
* Being negative
* Overstating qualifications