university of rochester application essay

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University of Rochester’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Meliora short response.

The University of Rochester motto of Meliora – or “ever better” - deeply integrates critical core values into all that we do. These core values of equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect and accountability define not only who we are, but also who we hope to become. Please use the space below to highlight a time, creative idea or research experience when you put into action one or more of these characteristics in order to make yourself, your community or the world ever better.

Select-A-Prompt Short Response

Please select one of the following prompts to respond to in 200 words or less.

American social reformer, abolitionist, writer and statesman Frederick Douglass said, “Some know the value of education by having it. I knew its value by not having it.” Explain ways in which your background, educational experience, and opportunities have directly influenced you and your ability to do good in the world. What specific moments of growth, lessons learned and resilience in your life have prepared you to promote positive change for your community and the world?

Dr. Donna Strickland, University of Rochester alum and 2018 Nobel Prize winner in Physics said, “There’s no point in me being anything other than me.” The University of Rochester encourages each student to embrace the intersectionality of their identity and create their own individual curricular path and experience. What qualities and experiences make you the best version of yourself? What unique elements of your background, perspectives, and experiences will you bring to our community?

Susan B. Anthony, champion of abolition and women’s rights, once said “Organize, agitate, educate must be our war cry.” As you look to join our community of doers and disruptors, in what ways do you envision using both the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities to invoke change for marginalized groups? How has your unique lived experience shaped you and prepared you to be a changemaker here?

The University of Rochester benefactor, entrepreneur, photography pioneer and philanthropist George Eastman said, “What we do during our working hours determines what we have; what we do in our leisure hours determines what we are.” How have the ways you‘ve spent your time enabled you to grow as a person? What challenges have helped define you and your role within your many communities?

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

How to Write the University of Rochester Supplemental Essay 2024–2025

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The University of Rochester , founded in 1850, is located in the artsy tech hub known as the “ Flower City .” The University of Rochester’s accomplished alumni include actor Lance Reddick, novelist Shirley Jackson, and Nobel Prize-winning economist Richard Thaler. In addition, the University of Rochester produces many physicists, politicians, engineers, musicians, and artists. If you’re hoping to follow in their footsteps, you’ll need to nail your University of Rochester supplemental essay first. This post will break down the prompt’s complexities and give you the tools you need to succeed.

University of Rochester’s 2024-2025 Prompt

The university of rochester benefactor, entrepreneur, photography pioneer and philanthropist george eastman said, “the progress of the world depends almost entirely upon education.” in what ways do you envision using the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities at the university of rochester to promote progress and change within the communities you inhabit (250 words or fewer).

Contextualizing the Prompt

This prompt begins with some crucial historical context. In brief, this context may shed light on the ambitious vision the University of Rochester holds for their applicants.

The first part of this prompt provides a brief biography of George Eastman. Eastman was the founder of Kodak, the successful photography company. Why is the prompt written in this way, and how are you as the writer expected to respond to it? There are a few nuances here. First, Eastman’s donations have had a significant impact on the University of Rochester community. These contributions have strengthened the University of Rochester’s offerings in music and medicine, among other areas.

In addition, Eastman’s contributions to the film and photography industries through his work have impacted the city of Rochester. The Rochester Film Festival , as well as The Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester, are world-renowned for their scientific and artistic contributions.

When the University of Rochester’s admissions team poses this question, they attempt to see you as an applicant within the broader context of the University of Rochester’s mission and societal contributions. The admissions officers are not just hoping to fill a class of well-rounded, intellectually engaged students. In short, they are seeking future change-makers. In other words, it’s your job to help the reader see how you fit into Eastman’s legacy.

University of Rochester Short Essay Question

This is the only University of Rochester supplemental essay prompt, so you’ll need to make it count if you choose to write it. That said, you may also provide a creative response or a research response to this prompt, if that is preferable to you. Here’s we’ll focus on how to approach the essay response. Let’s dive in.

This prompt may seem confusing on its surface, opening with a quote and ending with the expectation that you will promote “progress and change” in your community. Ultimately, though, this is a “Why University of Rochester?” essay. Let’s break it down.

As shown above, the first part of the prompt is important historical context. That said, the second part of the prompt is the actual question you’ll need to answer. In it, you are asked to envision the ways you will maximize the opportunities available at the University of Rochester. Ideally, you will not just mention which opportunities you wish to seize. Moreover, you will need to describe how you’ll seize these opportunities and why it’s important that you have access to these opportunities. The prompt implies that the “why” is because you will enact positive societal change. In your essay, though, you’ll need to get more specific than that.

Specificity is key to nailing this essay. In 250 words, you can compose a few paragraphs (approximately one double-spaced page). That said, it’s not a lot of room to tackle all of the different questions embedded in this prompt. You can start with an outline. Research the specific opportunities you intend to pursue at the University of Rochester. Then, write down a few reasons why these opportunities excite you. Next, brainstorm a short list of goals these opportunities will help you reach. Lastly, write down a few positive impacts that these goals will have on the communities you inhabit.

In addition, remember to think broadly as you brainstorm ideas, write up your outline, and compose your first draft. The “communities you inhabit” could be as specific as your immediate family. Or, they could be as broad as the climate you live in. Similarly, the opportunities you hope to seize at the University of Rochester could be as small as taking a particular course. Alternatively, they could be as great as your imagination stretches. That said, whatever opportunities you choose to describe, be sure to express how these opportunities are specific to the University of Rochester.

If you need help polishing up your University of Rochester supplemental essays, check out our College Essay Review service. You can receive detailed feedback from Ivy League consultants in as little as 24 hours.

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3 University of Rochester Essay Examples

What’s covered:.

• Essay Example #1 – Community Impact
• Essay Example #2 – Personal Qualities

Essay Example #3 – Activism at Rochester

Where to get your university of rochester essays edited.

The University of Rochester is a selective school, so it’s important to write strong essays to help your application stand out. In this post, we’ll share an essay a real student has submitted to the University of Rochester. (Names and identifying information have been changed, but all other details are preserved).

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our University of Rochester es say breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

Essay Example #1 – Community Impact 

Prompt: The University of Rochester motto of Meliora – or “ever better” – deeply integrates critical core values into all that we do. These core values of equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability define not only who we are, but also who we hope to become. Please use the space below to highlight a time, creative idea, or research experience when you put into action one or more of these characteristics in order to make yourself, your community, or the world even better. (250 words)

My interest in dance wouldn’t be as pronounced as it is today if not for the mentors I met along the way. From my senior peers to my dance instructor, their leadership put me on the right path to success. Recently, I got the chance to make the same impact on the next generation of Dancers.

For my community’s cultural day, a few students were putting together a dance performance, albeit with no prior dance experience. They were looking for an instructor and choreographer for their group and asked me to lead. Although excited, I soon realized this would require more from me. When I started teaching the group, their movements were offbeat and messy. With the performance only a few weeks away, I had to take charge to ensure a great performance. I increased the number of practices, sacrificed more time from my week, and used incentives to lead them to do their best at every practice.

On the day of their performance, I sat at the front of the auditorium, nervous but also excited to see the final product. But when they started the routine, I knew I was proud regardless.

These kids have done 5 performances after this one. While they received a new appreciation for dance from my leadership, I have grown as a person and a dance teacher, further understanding the importance of mentorship. In the future, I hope to continue teaching others about dance and helping expand its prevalence in our community.

What the Essay Did Well

This is a version of the Community Service essay, where you’re asked to discuss the positive impact you’ve had on others. Through discussion of their past, present, and future in the dance community, this applicant has helped us understand the depth of their passion for dance, and the dance community. This story about helping the next generation of dancers choreograph a performance gives readers a positive impression of the author’s commitment both to the discipline of dance, and to their younger peers. The demonstration of these positive qualities, like commitment, generosity, and service to the community, are undoubtedly one of the strengths of this essay. 

Along with the demonstration of positive qualities, this is a particularly clear and effective essay. The word count is tight, but the author manages to cover a good amount of information about themselves and their involvement with dancing, from their own mentors, to the mentorship they extend to these younger dancers. This helps give the essay breadth as well as depth, which is key in a successful essay. 

What Could Be Improved

While this essay is well-written, we would’ve loved to see more vivid language and sophisticated sentence structure, to help it stand out from the crowd. Consider the first paragraph. 

My interest in dance wouldn’t be as pronounced as it is today if not for the mentors I met

along the way. From my senior peers to my dance instructor, their leadership put me on the right

path to success. Recently, I got the chance to make the same impact on the next generation of Dancers.

Now, what if it were rewritten like this:

From the time I slipped into my first leotard, I have loved dance and the community that surrounds it. Older dancers and instructors have always helped to guide me on the path to success. Because of all of this support, I was overjoyed when I recently had the chance to mentor the next generation of dancers.

These introductions have the exact same number of words, but one makes use of more dynamic sentence structure and stronger language choices. Remember, your essays aren’t just a place to show off your most compelling stories, but they’re also where you demonstrate your storytelling skills. Making strong language choices, and making use of interesting essay structures can really help your essay stand out from other applicants. 

Another thing we would’ve loved to see from this essay is some imagery. Vivid descriptions stick in an admissions officer’s mind more so than broader, more vague statements. In the example above, just referencing that first leotard puts an image in the reader’s mind, whereas the other example gives vague impressions of older dancer figures without further detail. This essay is anchored in a narrative, but that narrative has very little detail attached to it. Even with only 250 words, it’s a good idea to include detail wherever possible. 

Finally, detail goes hand-in-hand with another important principle of storytelling: specificity. The more specific your story, the easier it is to imagine it, connect with it, and envision your part in it. Though we have learned a lot about this student’s value for mentorship and giving back to the community, we still don’t know basic details, like what kind of dance was being performed. Ballet, tap, and the Argentine tango all have very different associations. Just using the name of the dance would convey images of what kinds of movement, choreography, and costume the dancers might have been working with, all of which would’ve strengthened this essay’s uniqueness and detail. In writing your own essays, remember to make your essay specific so admissions teams remember you along with it. 

Essay Example #2 – Personal Qualities 

Prompt: Dr. Donna Strickland, University of Rochester alum and 2018 Nobel Prize winner in Physics said, “There’s no point in me being anything other than me.” The University of Rochester encourages each student to embrace who they are and create their own individual curricular path and experience. How will you use the opportunities here to fully be who you are? What unique perspectives will you bring to our community? 200 words

I look in the mirror as I put on my jhumka earrings and fix my lehenga skirt. This traditional Indian costume has become an important part of my identity and every one of my dance performances. As a Bollywood dancer, my life isn’t complete without monthly performances or dance practices. At Rochester, I hope to continue my exploration of this passion. Rochester Raas is a competitive Indian dance team, focused on traditional folk dance. By joining Raas, I will be able to continue the activity I love, while also learning more about my traditional roots and heritage.

I am also well known for my vast collection of books and my tendency to read during any free moment. At Rochester, I hope to start a unique book club focused on sharing our passions for reading. Rather than everyone reading the same book, members of this club will recommend books they have liked in the past to their peers, allowing for discussion and the joining of like minds. This practice started with my small group of friends, and I hope to expand it to the Rochester community in order to find others with similar interests as mine.

This prompt is a version of what we call a Diversity essay , which focuses on applicants’ unique identities and the communities they are a part of. This essay responds perfectly to the prompt, by describing communities this student already inhabits and expanding that to the University of Rochester. Instead of just talking about future ideas or plans, the student makes their existing commitment to these passions clear, so it’s easy to imagine them participating the same way in Rochester. 

Along with very concrete examples of communities, we get an idea of the author’s hobbies – dancing and reading – as well as their value for cultural engagement and generating community. Their readiness to start a book club, if one doesn’t exist, demonstrates their readiness and ability to be a positive presence on campus. Overall, this essay paints a clear picture of who this student is, in a few concrete, community-focused ways. This answers the unique perspective component of the essay, and gives an idea of the kind of diversity this student will bring to campus. 

Finally, the vivid imagery of donning the jhumpka earrings and lehenga skirt are a powerful way to bring us into the essay, and help readers picture the author as a dancer and a reader. This makes the essay personal and specific, and brings us closer to the applicant. 

One thing we would’ve liked to see in this essay is a bit more focus on the flow of the writing. While this essay accomplishes a lot in terms of content, the two sections are pretty disconnected, which makes the essay feel choppy and a bit underdeveloped. While there is a transition sentence, we would’ve liked to see a transition that linked the two ideas, rather than just bringing in the next one. Something like “When I’m not on the dance floor, I’m known for having my nose buried in a book,” is a smoother segue from one subject to the next. 

Another thing we would’ve loved to see in this essay is more imagery and vivid details. The essay is just 200 words, so extensive description isn’t really possible, but even something like the common phrase of burying one’s nose in a book has an image inherent in it. Talking about stacks of books or passionate discussions could help readers picture the atmosphere of the book club. 

Prompt: Susan B. Anthony, champion of abolition and women’s rights, once said, “Organize, agitate, educate must be our warcry.” As you look to join our community of doers and disruptors, in what ways do you envision using both the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities to invoke change for marginalized groups? (200 words)

To Nigerians,

It’s been eight years since we’ve been subjected to the tyranny of bad governance. Our medical systems have been destroyed, economy devaluated, and freedom of speech banished. But we need not worry for long. Just 5 years left!

By 2027, I will have explored the strategies behind successful revolutions in Prof. Meguid’s Introduction to Comparative Politics Class ( PSCI101) in my world politics cluster, equipping me to successfully lead us through the revolution we’ve eagerly awaited and install a political system that will ensure our happiness. With the help of the Greene Center, I will have gained practical experience of the biomedical engineering career field by interning at Corning’s biochemical department, enabling me to contribute to the rebuilding of our medical system. I will have developed a Parkinson-stabilizing device from my experience analyzing human motion with MATLAB in Professor Buckley’s BME 201-P class. I hope to later extend this device to cater for poliomyelitis, a disease that has plagued us since 1982. I will have strengthened my ability to put corruption under check through music by developing my soprano voice at Vocal point.

But even more importantly, I will have been Meliorad- made ever better and equipped to make you ever better.

I will be made all these at University of Rochester.

This is a version of the “Why This College” prompt , which asks the writer to discuss their reasons for choosing the University of Rochester. This response really delivers, with great specificity both about the author, and about Rochester. The classes, departments, and club mentioned make it clear that this student has done their research, and knows not just where they will fit in, but how. 

Another particularly strong element of this essay is the personal connection that the author has to all of the points mentioned. In tying their ideas and goals to their country and its struggles, the author has chosen not just any marginalized group, but a group that they are a part of and that is truly important to them. This creates connection, not just between the student and the topic they’re discussing, but the admissions committee reading the essay, as well. 

Lastly, the unique letter format is attention-grabbing and unique. It’s effective because the author is able to easily introduce the issue at hand and explain how to solve it without coming across as literal or pedantic. This essay stands out, and it accomplishes the author’s goals efficiently. 

One thing that stands out in this essay as an easily fixable potential improvement is the language fluency. Some of the writing and phrasing is a bit awkward and some of the word choices may be incorrect. These kinds of edits can be easily made with the help of a friend or peer as a reviewer. 

The ending is also a bit abrupt. “I will be made all of these at University of Rochester” is both awkward, and fails to recap some of the most important parts of the essay. While the discussion of becoming ever better and making others ever better is compelling, explaining how the applicant plans to do this would make this conclusion stronger. 

Finally, the context of this essay is not very clear. While admissions officers can certainly do a bit of research to understand the situation in Nigeria that this student is describing, the mentions of five more years, and a change occurring in 2027, are a bit more obscure. Is the student taking action to make change in 2027? This is a powerful statement, so making it clear what exactly they are saying would be a great step to making this essay even more effective.

Do you want feedback on your University of Rochester  essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

University of Rochester 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 5

University of Rochester 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 Essay of 250 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Community

The University of Rochester benefactor, entrepreneur, photography pioneer and philanthropist George Eastman said, “The progress of the world depends almost entirely upon education.” In what ways do you envision using the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities at the University of Rochester to promote progress and change within the communities you inhabit? (250 word limit)

The University of Rochester wants to know two things here: 1) how you will take advantage of the resources and academic flexibility they offer and 2) how you will use that to improve your communities. Your “community” can be just about anything, from your neighborhood to your gender identity to rugby fans worldwide. Think about what kind of advancements you’d like to see in the world and how those relate to one of your communities. Then spend some time on University of Rochester’s website to understand how you might use their courses, research opportunities, student clubs, or other unique offerings to start making those changes. Maybe you’ll major in Politics and pair a Language and Cognition cluster with a Russian Literature and Culture cluster to prepare for a future career as a diplomat to your grandmother’s native country. Perhaps with a double major in International Theater and Black Studies, you will study abroad through the Theatre in England program, gaining insight into how different cultures express cultural clashes on stage with the aim to found your own theater promoting Black creatives. Show admissions that you have an idea of how your time at U of R will help you promote progress in your communities. 

Note that while you have the option to write an essay for this question, you may send in a work of art or an abstract describing your related research instead. This is a great option for students who express themselves more authentically through outlets other than writing. However, if you choose one of these options, you’ll still have to send in a short explanation of how your response relates to creating positive change within your community. 

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University of Rochester Medical School Secondary Application Prompts

• Cracking Med School Admissions Team

Prior to the 2020-2021 application cycle, the University of Rochester School of Medicine did not have any secondary essay prompts. Then, in the 2021-2021 cycle, it had an optional prompt for students to discuss any challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The University of Rochester Admissions Committee has only added essays since! We suggest medical school applicants to pre-write their University of Rochester secondary essays and then submit them early.

Dr. Rachel Rizal and Dr. Rishi Mediratta has a track record of helping our mentees receive acceptances to the University of Rochester School of Medicine year after year. We’ve traveled and visited the medical school and can make sure to help you with your applications to all New York medical schools!

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University of Rochester School of Medicine Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2023 – 2024

• (Optional) Recognizing that this past year was complicated for many reasons, please share any challenges and/or special circumstances that impacted your application beyond the commonly experienced disruptions (inability for in-person rotations, hospital experiences, in-person classes). (200 words max)
• If you previously applied to medical school, briefly describe any experiences you have been part of since your previous application. (200 words max)
• Tell us about a community you identify with and how you’re involved with it?  (200 words max)

Tips to Answer University of Rochester Secondaries

University of Rochester Secondary Application Pre-Writing Guidance: This is a great secondary to start pre-writing so you could submit it earlier. The prompts don’t change (although prompts are added every couple of years). Keep reading our tips below for question-by-question guidance!

• Download  all  our HIGH-YIELD tips for secondary essays:  Cracking Med School Admissions Secondary Essay Guide

University of Rochester Secondary Application Tip #1: We encourage you to answer the optional question, and answers to this question can be personal. Topics that students have written about for the optional question:

• Disruptions in classes or fluctuations in grades
• Disruptions in research projects, including senior thesis work
• Sick family members
• Responsibility to take care of family members
• Being sick themselves, and how catching the coronavirus affected their health
• Major disruptions to extra-curricular activities

Wondering if you should answer this question? Contact us below and we’ll give you our opinion!

University of Rochester Secondary Application Tip #2:  If you are a re-applicant during this medical school application cycle, it is important to discuss how your application has changed from the first time you applied to this current time you are applying. First, identify weaknesses in your previous application. Make sure to discuss how you have improved on those weaknesses. Then, if you have other significant extra-curricular activities or new work experiences, you should mention them. 

• If you improved your academic profile, discuss specifically your academic performance during your gap year(s) (include postbacc / Master’s Grade Point Average & performance)
• If you conducted clinical experiences and volunteer work during your gap years, it’s important to mention these as University of Rochester greatly values both of these types of experiences. 

University of Rochester Secondary Application Tip #3:  To answer the University of Rochester secondary application question, “ Tell us about a community you identify with and how you’re involved with it, ” you have to understand  why the admissions committee is asking this question. University of Rochester is a community-focused school and its aim is to serve the Rochester community. It is strong in both primary care and specialty medicine. Therefore, you should answer this question to convey to the University of Rochester Admissions Committee that you will actively participate in community service, research, and clinical experiences that serve the Rochester community. 

Tips for the essay: Make sure you identify ONE community (sometimes, we’ve seen students write about 2+ communities). Discuss what you have gained from that community and how that has motivated you to serve the Rochester community.

University of Rochester Secondary Application Tip #4:  To understand the health issues that impact Rochester’s community, read local newspapers and the Monroe County Department of Public Health website. It’s good to know both the local and national healthcare current events 🙂 

• We have an entire  healthcare current events  blog post here, where you can read more about healthcare disparities and other current events. Our Cracking Med School Admissions team updates this each year!

[ Read more:  Medical Schools in New York: How to Get Accepted & School Profiles   ]

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University of Rochester School of Medicine Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2022 – 2023

University of rochester school of medicine secondary application essay prompts: 2021 – 2022.

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University of Rochester School of Medicine Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2020 – 2021

• (Optional)  Recognizing that this past year was complicated for many reasons, please share any challenges and/or special circumstances that impacted your application beyond the commonly experienced disruptions (inability for in-person rotations, hospital experiences, in-person classes).  (250 words max)

University of Rochester School of Medicine Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2019 – 2020

There were no essay prompts in the secondary application for the 2019-2020 medical school application cycle.

University of Rochester School of Medicine Secondary Application Essay Prompts: 2018 – 2019

There were no essay prompts in the secondary application for the 2018-2019 medical school application cycle.

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How to Write the University of Rochester 2024-2025 Supplemental Essays

The University of Rochester’s 2024-2025 supplemental essays provide a unique opportunity to showcase your individual vision for educational impact and community engagement. The two primary essay prompts are:

George Eastman said, “The progress of the world depends almost entirely upon education.” In what ways do you envision using the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities at the University of Rochester to promote progress and change within the communities you inhabit? (250-word limit)

Creative Response: Upload up to three works of your own art (e.g., pictures, video, performances, creative writing) and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the art is tied to creating positive change within your community.

Research Response: Upload an abstract describing your own related research and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the research is tied to creating positive change within your community. (250-word limit)

Approaching the George Eastman Quote Essay

In addressing the first prompt, reflect deeply on how you foresee leveraging the unique academic and extracurricular offerings at Rochester. This isn’t just about what you hope to gain, but rather what change you intend to spark. Think about the interdisciplinary nature of Rochester’s curriculum. How can you merge different fields of study to address real-world issues in your community?

For example, if you’re passionate about environmental sustainability, outline a plan that involves taking courses in environmental science and public policy while participating in community-based projects. Don’t forget to emphasize the flexibility of Rochester’s curriculum, which allows you to tailor your learning experience to your specific goals. This tailored approach demonstrates not just your aspirations but a clear, actionable path you intend to follow.

If you’re unsure where to start, consider using Sups AI . This platform can help you brainstorm and refine your ideas, ensuring your essay stands out. Sups AI has already aided over 10,000 students in getting admitted to top 50 schools across the nation.

Crafting Your Creative Response

The second prompt asks for a creative response. Here’s your chance to highlight your artistic talents, whether that’s in visual art, performance, literature, or any other form. Select works that uniquely represent your perspective and demonstrate your commitment to positive change. In your explanation, be clear about the impact your art has had or can have. Art can be a powerful catalyst for social change, so emphasize stories where your work had a tangible impact on your community.

Sups AI offers one-on-one chats with current college students, which can provide valuable insights into how to frame your artistic endeavors to resonate with the admissions committee. These insights can significantly bolster your essay’s impact.

Developing Your Research Response

The research prompt is ideal for students who have already engaged in scientific, social, or artistic research. Begin by providing a succinct but thorough abstract that highlights the key objectives, methods, and findings of your research. Then, link this research to your desire to create positive change in your community. Mention any ongoing projects and future research directions you hope to pursue at Rochester. Showcase how the university’s resources, such as labs, faculty, or fieldwork opportunities, align with your research interests and community goals.

Utilizing Sups AI can also help you polish your abstract and link your research effectively to community impact. Engage with their tools to ensure your essay is not just informative but also compelling.

Ultimately, the University of Rochester’s supplemental essays are an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to education, creativity, and community. Use these prompts to show the admissions committee who you are and how you plan to make a difference. And remember, Sups AI is always there to offer guidance along your journey.

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 University of Rochester Supplemental Essay Prompts

Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.

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Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

The University of Rochester is located in upstate New York and is the home of “Rocky the Yellowjacket.” So, we bet you are buzzing to get into the University of Rochester, and that will require knowing how to respond to the University of Rochester supplemental essay prompts.

So, how can you make your responses stand out? Read more in our guide for how to respond to the University of Rochester supplemental essay prompts! 

Breaking down the University of Rochester supplemental essay prompts

The University of Rochester offers applicants two mandatory University of Rochester supplemental essay questions they will have to respond to. However, there are a few options under each supplemental essay question that applicants can choose from. 

The first essay is one question that offers the following options to respond to: 

• Essay response
• Creative response
• Research response

The first essay needs to be completed in 200 words or less. This is not a lot of words! So, plan out your responses thoughtfully. You want to make sure that you are not repeating yourself, but instead, are revealing your interests and personality throughout your response.

Adding on to that, be sure you are selecting an option for essay 1 that stands out to you. You want to be as authentic as possible when responding to these questions. 

The second essay is a choice of three prompts. Essay 2 will need to be completed in 200 words or less as well. So, be sure both of your answers to Essay 1 and 2 reveal different pieces of information about yourself. 

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The University of Rochester motto of Meliora – or “ever better” – deeply integrates critical core values into all that we do. These core values of equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect and accountability define not only who we are, but also who we hope to become. Please use the space below to highlight a time, creative idea or research experience when you put into action one or more of these characteristics in order to make yourself, your community or the world ever better. (200-word limit).

You may answer this question in one of three ways: 

• Essay response : Write an analytical or creative response of 200 words or less
• Creative response : Upload up to three works of your own art (e.g. pictures, video, performances, literary) and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the art is tied to making the world, your community and those around you “ever better.”
• Research Response : Upload an abstract describing your own related research and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the research is tied to making the world, your community and those around you “ever better.”

Essay response option

Write an analytical or creative response of 200 words or less

If you choose to select the essay response option, make sure that you are brainstorming and outlining your response from the start. 

The core values of the University of Rochester are blatantly laid out in this question. Therefore, make sure you understand them! Figure out which characteristics best represent yourself. 

To make this essay response very easy for you, write down a list of all of University of Rochester’s core values and then write down a time in which you possessed these values. For example, you can write about how becoming the captain of your varsity basketball team in high school helped you learn responsibility  and reap the benefits of being a leader. 

Completing this brainstorming method for each core value will help you narrow down the best narratives and examples of the traits that you possess. 

Once you create this list, select one core value from it that best represents “you.” Remember, there are only 200 words allowed for this response so selecting one will allow you plenty of room to add necessary details. 

After choosing this one core value, describe the narrative that best shows a time in which you displayed this core value. Be creative in your storytelling while also highlighting what you have learned from this experience. 

You do not want to just hype yourself up, but rather, detail how you learned an important lesson. In addition, you want to describe how this characteristic makes yourself, the community, and even the world a better place. 

Creative response option

Upload up to three works of your own art (e.g. pictures, video, performances, literary) and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the art is tied to making the world, your community and those around you “ever better.”

This response quite literally provides you with a lot of creativity. The University of Rochester is allowing you the freedom to show off your artistic and creative talents. Therefore, select a piece of work that is meaningful to you. 

Remember, although this response allows a lot of creative freedom, it is still a part of Essay 1. Therefore, be sure you are connecting your piece of art back to the essay at hand. Be sure to link your work to one of University of Rochester’s core values. 

Remember, do not upload something that you are not proud of or haven’t created completely by yourself–you want your authentic self to shine through! 

Research response option

Upload an abstract describing your own related research and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the research is tied to making the world, your community and those around you “ever better.”

U of R is known for partaking in world-class research. Therefore, it is understandable why they would offer a research option for one of their responses to their supplemental essay question. 

If you completed any research in high school or have any published research, now would be the time to share it! This will definitely give you a leg up on the competition and show the University of Rochester that you will fit in amazingly at their institution. 

If you have not completed any research, do not worry (most high school students have not!). Therefore, it may make more sense to complete one of the other options. 

For the second University of Rochester supplemental essay, you’ll choose between one of three prompts to respond to.

American social reformer, abolitionist, writer and statesman, Frederick Douglass said, “Some know the value of education, by having it. I knew its value by not having it.” Explain ways in which education has directly influenced you and your ability to do good in the world. How will you use the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities of the University of Rochester experience to grow and to promote positive change for yourself, your community and your world.

The University of Rochester is unique in the fact that it offers “curricular flexibility.” This means that U of R gives students the opportunity to double major, study abroad, take fun electives, and much more without falling behind. Be sure you are doing your research on the University of Rochester prior to applying and answering their supplemental essay questions. 

After researching the University of Rochester, you should begin writing your response to this essay question. The first thing you should highlight is what education means to you. 

Think about the following questions to help spark some ideas: 

• Why do you want to go to college? 
• What does higher education mean to you? 
• How has education helped your life so far? 

Detail how important and thankful you are for your educational opportunities. You should then highlight how U of R’s flexible curriculum will continue to help you achieve your goals. 

You could even describe a narrative detailing when you realized how important public programs for the needy are after volunteering at a soup kitchen. This can reveal how you learned from your experiences and want to continue to pursue your education at the University of Rochester to help others. 

Dr. Donna Strickland, University of Rochester alum and 2018 Nobel Prize winner in Physics said, “There’s no point in me being anything other than me.” The University of Rochester encourages each student to embrace who they are and create their own individual curricular path and experience. How will you use the opportunities here to fully be who you are? What unique experiences will you bring to our community?

Everyone is different. So, how do you differ from everyone else? What makes you special? How can you continue to thrive while at the University of Rochester? This is the core of this question. 

To begin this prompt, you should reveal a quirk of yours. What makes you stand out from others? You should narrate a concise story that reveals this passion or interest of yours that makes you – you ! 

After, this is a perfect opportunity to reveal how well you did your research on the University of Rochester’s clubs and organizations. You should connect your quirk to an extracurricular offered at the University of Rochester! 

For example, maybe what makes you unique is that you love to go for runs because it helps calm you down and gives you the chance to see new scenery. Therefore, you are so excited to join the University of Rochester running club to meet like-minded running friends. 

It is important to connect what makes you unique to aspects of the University of Rochester that will allow you to thrive!

The University of Rochester benefactor entrepreneur, photography pioneer and philanthropist, George Eastman said, “What we do during our working hours determines what we have, what we do in our leisure hours determines what we are.” Looking forward toward your college experience, what do you hope to do outside of the classroom at the University of Rochester? What will enhance who you are as a person? How will specific academic and social opportunities here help you grow?

This question is very similar to option 2. The University of Rochester wants to get to know applicants by understanding what they will take part in while at their university. 

So, write what makes you excited about attending the University of Rochester! Detail specific examples of things that you want to participate in. For example, share about specific courses, clubs, or even something nearby such as a nature walk you want to go on!

The most important thing is that you are writing about something you are genuinely excited about and makes you want to attend the University of Rochester over other schools. 

Remember, take the time to find the specific names of clubs and explain why that particular organization at U of R will help you grow as a person. 

Final thoughts on the University of Rochester supplemental essays 

The University of Rochester’s supplemental essays can be quite overwhelming. However, when it really comes down to it there are just 2 essays you need to write! Therefore, do not get caught up on all of the options presented.

Rather, take it slow! Read each question and its options carefully and select the option that most closely aligns with your interests. If you do not immediately connect with a prompt do not select it! 

Once you have narrowed down your options to just your Essay 1 and 2 questions, begin to brainstorm and plan out what you want to write about! 

The most important thing is that you have done your research prior to answering the questions. This will ensure that you are prepared to name drop any organizations you are excited to participate in. 

Once you have done your research and selected your options, you are ready to respond to the questions! Best of luck during the writing process! 

Next steps after applying to the University of Rochester

Once you have completed the University of Rochester supplemental essay questions, have a trusted person read over your responses to check: 

• For any spelling or grammar errors
• Repetition throughout your responses
• That your responses answer the questions

Now it is officially time to submit your University of Rochester application. Good job! Be sure check for any updates to your application status by looking at your: 

• University of Rochester portal
• Social media accounts run by University of Rochester

Additional resources

Before submitting your University of Rochester application, make sure that your Coalition Application and Common Application essays are perfect also! 

Have you taken the ACT or SAT ? If you are curious about whether or not to send your SAT/ACT scores to test optional schools, check out our guide!

Check out our free scholarship search tool to help you afford your education. Scholarships360 is here to help you! 

Additional supplemental essay guides

• Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA)
• Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD)
• University of Chicago (Chicago, IL)

Frequently asked questions about responding to the university of Rochester essay prompts

How many supplemental essay prompts does the university of rochester have, when are the application deadlines for the university of rochester, are there any helpful tips for making my essay stand out from other applicants, is there a right option to select for the university of rochester essays, scholarships360 recommended.

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University of Rochester Supplemental Essay Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to respond to a University of Rochester supplemental essay prompt?  CollegeAdvisor.com ’s guide to the University of Rochester essay questions will show you how to write captivating University of Rochester essay responses and increase your chances against the University of Rochester acceptance rate.

If you need help writing your University of Rochester supplement essays, create your  free account  or  schedule a free advising consultation  by calling (844) 343-6272.

University of Rochester Supplemental Essay Guide Quick Facts:

• The University of Rochester’s acceptance rate is 35% –  U.S. News  ranks the University of Rochester as a  most selective  school.
• The University of Rochester is ranked 34th by US News in their current ranking of national universities.
• We recommend that you complete each University of Rochester supplemental essay thoroughly and thoughtfully to maximize your admissions odds.

What is the University of Rochester acceptance rate?

The current University of Rochester acceptance rate is 35%. According to US News, the average acceptance rate for universities is 68%; this makes the University of Rochester acceptance rate significantly lower than that of many universities.

However, don’t let the University of Rochester acceptance rate scare you. After all, many factors influence whether you’re accepted to a given school. There are plenty of things you can do to boost your admissions odds. For example, crafting strong responses to each University of Rochester supplemental essay. Well-crafted essays, strong recommendation letters, and impressive transcripts can help you overcome the University of Rochester acceptance rate.

Once again, the University of Rochester’s acceptance rate is 35%. Given the low University of Rochester acceptance rate and its test-optional ad policy, well-written University of Rochester supplement essays can considerably increase your admissions odds. In other words, whenever applicable in a University of Rochester supplemental essay, you want to show that you’ve done your research on the school. Your essays should show the admissions team your specific goals in attending Rochester (beyond reputation and prestige). To learn more about DI and how universities use it, check out this  Forbes article .

Want to learn how to use the University of Rochester acceptance rate to build a balanced college list? Check out our recent  blog article .

Is the University of Rochester hard to get into?

US News currently lists the University of Rochester ranking as 34th in the nation. U.S. News takes both the high University of Rochester ranking and the low University of Rochester acceptance rate into consideration when they designate Rochester as a  most selective school .

Once again, the University of Rochester’s acceptance rate is 35%. Given the low University of Rochester acceptance rate and its test-optional admissions policy, well-written University of Rochester supplement essays can considerably increase your admissions odds.

Since the University of Rochester ranking is quite high, you should do all you can to help your application shine. However, don’t let the University of Rochester ranking (or acceptance rate) discourage you from submitting the strongest application you can.

Does the University of Rochester require essays?

Yes. All applicants must complete two University of Rochester essay questions in addition to the required essay for the  Common App  or  Coalition App . Below, we’ll discuss how to best respond to each University of Rochester essay question in this Rochester essay guide.

Need some help writing your Common App essay? Get great tips from our Common App essay  guide .

How many essays does the University of Rochester Require?

There are two University of Rochester supplemental essay prompts on the 2020-2021 Common App. All applicants must complete both University of Rochester supplemental essays.

Does the University of Rochester care about essays?

Simply, yes. Like many other universities, the University of Rochester has moved to a test-optional admissions policy. Last year, over 18,000 students applied to the University of Rochester. Of that number, only about 6,500 students were admitted—which is how they calculate the University of Rochester acceptance rate.

With a test-optional policy and a rising number of applicants, the other aspects of your application become even more important. This includes the University of Rochester supplemental essays. If you don’t send standardized scores in your application, the  University of Rochester emphasizes  that your essays will be even more critical.

To recap, given the low University of Rochester acceptance rate, strong University of Rochester supplement essays could make the difference when it comes to your admissions result. If you want your best shot against the University of Rochester acceptance rate, don’t discount your Rochester essays!

How do I write the University of Rochester essays?

Approach each Rochester essay with a thorough understanding of the prompt. Then, take your time to draft a complete response. Spend the remainder of your time polishing each University of Rochester supplement essay. You’ll want to make sure that your openings grab your reader’s attention. Additionally, you should draft each University of Rochester essay with the word limit in mind—keep your language concise! Finally, whenever possible, your Rochester essays should use DI to reinforce your interest in attending the school.

University of Rochester Supplemental Essay – Question 1 (Required)

The University of Rochester motto of Meliora – or “ever better” – deeply integrates critical core values into all that we do. These core values of equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect and accountability define not only who we are, but also who we hope to become. Please use the space below to highlight a time, creative idea or research experience when you put into action one or more of these characteristics in order to make yourself, your community or the world ever better. (200-word limit).

You may answer one of three ways:

Essay Response: Write an analytical or creative response of 200 words or less.

Creative Response: Upload up to three works of your own art (e.g. pictures, video, performances, literary) and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the art is tied to making the world, your community and those around you “ever better.”

Research Response: Upload an abstract describing your own related research and use the space below to provide a brief explanation as to how the research is tied to making the world, your community and those around you “ever better.”

University of Rochester ranking and reputation aside, focus on how this University of Rochester supplemental essay can help you stand out!

This University of Rochester supplement essay prompt asks you to show how you emulate Rochester’s motto of “ever better” by embodying Rochester’s core values. The prompt invites you to connect your experiences, art, or research with at least one of Rochester’s listed values (equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability) as well as with the motto of “ever better.”

Let’s break down this University of Rochester supplement essay and discuss how to choose the best type of response.

Brainstorming Core Values

The University of Rochester wants students who model their core values and strive to make the world around them a better place. In your Rochester essay, you want to demonstrate that you embody Rochester’s key values. First, think about the values Rochester lists and how they contribute to making the world a better place. Then, brainstorm times when you lived out one or more of these values.

Making a List

To begin, go through each value listed and  free write  about a time or experience when you put that value into action. If you find yourself really taking off on one or two of the values, use that as a starting point for this University of Rochester supplemental essay.

Additionally, the values that matter most to you might not necessarily fit the requirements for your Rochester essay. For instance, if you list “equity” in your brainstorm but struggle to remember a time you lived this value, then you shouldn’t choose that value for this University of Rochester supplement essay. Do you value equity? Of course. But let’s choose a value that meets the University of Rochester supplement essay requirements.

On the other hand, if you list “leadership” and can share an experience when you used leadership to “make yourself, your community, or the world ever better,” you’ve found a topic for this University of Rochester supplemental essay.

Choose one or two of your strongest values that you have put into action to make the world “ever better.” Whichever values you choose, make sure you can back up your experiences with specific details.

Making a Choice

Once you have chosen a topic for your University of Rochester supplemental essay response, it’s time to choose a form. Rochester lets you get creative with this prompt—your University of Rochester supplement essay might not even be an essay at all!

Let’s look at each option and consider which one is best for you:

University of Rochester Supplemental Essay Option 1: The Essay Response

While writing an essay (rather than submitting a creative response or a research project) might seem unexciting, there are plenty of ways you can make your essay response shine. So, if you don’t have artistic projects or research to use for your first Rochester essay, don’t worry! The essay response is the route for you; let’s make the most of it.

For this University of Rochester essay, you need to identify a core value from your brainstorming list and describe how you used that value to better yourself or others. With only 200 words, you don’t have much space. You’ll want to include specific details—while your word count might be limited, your Rochester essay should still tell a story. You might open your essay with an anecdote before discussing how this value impacts your relationship to the world.

While you can address multiple values in your essay, you should do so with caution. Don’t try to tell multiple stories; instead, remain focused on one general idea. It’s better to address one topic in detail than to attempt to write about multiple experiences.

University of Rochester Supplemental Essay Option 2: The Creative Response

Art can be a powerful way to communicate your values. Do you have any creative work (pictures, video, performances, literature, etc.) that demonstrates one of your core values? If so, you might consider this option for your University of Rochester essay.

If you go this route, you can upload up to three artistic works. You must also provide a 200-word written explanation that details how these works align with making the word “ever better” for the University of Rochester supplemental essay.

Any files that you upload must meet the file type and size requirements provided. Name each file logically:

Ex. “Video 1” “Video 2” or “Photo 1” “Photo 2”

If you use specific file names, you can easily refer to them in your written explanation. Your explanation should clearly identify the work, the value it demonstrates, and how that work is “tied to making the world ever better.” As with all University of Rochester supplemental essays, you should be as specific and detailed as possible.

University of Rochester Supplemental Essay Option 3: The Research Response

The University of Rochester prides itself as one of the  leading research universities  in the US. This is one of the reasons the University of Rochester ranking is #34 in National Universities. Consequently, if you have published research, you might choose this option for your University of Rochester supplement essay. Relatively few students will have done extensive research projects, so this Rochester essay response can help your application stand out!

Upload your research abstract—follow the file upload requirements provided in the directions. Next, provide a 200-word discussion that explains how this research expresses a core value and is making the world “ever better.”

In your 200-word University of Rochester supplemental essay, you should use as many details as possible to directly describe how this research improves the world. Why did this research matter to you? How might it relate to projects you hope to continue while studying at Rochester?

University of Rochester Supplemental Essay Key Questions:

• Does your University of Rochester supplemental essay response identify a matching core value?
• Does your University of Rochester essay tie your core value(s) to your actions?
• Did you choose the best method of response to illustrate your value(s)?
• Does your response show how you will make yourself, your community, and the world “ever better” while studying at Rochester?

University of Rochester Supplemental Essay – Option 2 (Required)

Please select one of the following prompts to respond to in 200 words or less.

1. American social reformer, abolitionist, writer and statesman, Frederick Douglass said, “Some know the value of education, by having it. I knew its value by not having it.” Explain ways in which education has directly influenced you and your ability to do good in the world. How will you use the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities of the University of Rochester experience to grow and to promote positive change for yourself, your community and your world.

2. Dr. Donna Strickland, University of Rochester alum and 2018 Nobel Prize winner in Physics said, “There’s no point in me being anything other than me.” The University of Rochester encourages each student to embrace who they are and create their own individual curricular path and experience. How will you use the opportunities here to fully be who you are? What unique experiences will you bring to our community?

3. The University of Rochester benefactor entrepreneur, photography pioneer and philanthropist, George Eastman said, “What we do during our working hours determines what we have, what we do in our leisure hours determines what we are.” Looking forward toward your college experience, what do you hope to do outside of the classroom at the University of Rochester? What will enhance who you are as a person? How will specific academic and social opportunities here help you grow?

The University of Rochester wants students to build their own program of study and engage in campus life. This University of Rochester supplemental essay gives you an opportunity to connect with their ideals.

Let’s check out each of your options here and strategize for your best choice.

Evaluating The Prompts

Both the first and second options mention “curricular flexibility” and “individual curricular path.” So, take some time to understand this unique  Rochester Curriculum  before selecting a University of Rochester essay prompt.

In some ways, each of these prompts is akin to a “Why Rochester” essay. This means that in your University of Rochester supplement essay, you should try to mention specific programs and opportunities only available at Rochester. This is your chance to show the Rochester admissions team that you’re invested in their school—don’t let it go to waste.

Each of these University of Rochester supplemental essay prompts takes a slightly different angle. Let’s break down what each of these questions asks:

Prompt 1: Education and its Influence

This University of Rochester essay prompt directly asks how education has influenced you to do good in the world. You can choose this prompt if you’ve had a unique experience with education that has contributed to your identity and goals.

Remember, your University of Rochester supplemental essays should help the admissions team learn more about you. Do you have a personal experience connected to education that informs your desire to study at Rochester? If so, this might be a great prompt to choose for your University of Rochester supplemental essay.

For example, you might discuss how a volunteering experience you had influenced your desire to promote education for underserved groups. Or, you might describe how your own struggles in the education system have inspired you to help make learning more equitable.

Identify your previous learning experience and connect it to your academic planning with the Rochester curriculum. By connecting your experiences to your goals at Rochester, you can use this University of Rochester supplement essay to show both your understanding of curricular programming at Rochester and your desire to affect change in your community.

Prompt 2: Being Who You Are

This University of Rochester supplemental essay requires you to identify a distinct personal feature and demonstrate how you will express that trait at the University of Rochester.

At Rochester, community extends far beyond the classroom walls. Ninety percent of University of Rochester students participate in student clubs and organizations. Take this opportunity to investigate the  student organizations  on campus. Consider what qualities you will bring to Rochester and how you will contribute to the student body.

You might choose a particular club that accords with your identity or interests and describe how you would interface with that aspect of campus culture. For instance, if you’re a first-generation college student, you might talk about your desire to join Rochester’s 1st Gen Society and help connect the first-generation community. Whatever you choose, make sure to include as many specific details as possible.

Prompt 3: Life Outside the Classroom

In some ways, this University of Rochester essay prompt combines Prompt 1 and Prompt 2. This University of Rochester essay prompt asks you to identify your goals and describe how the University of Rochester will help you grow into the person you want to be.

Once again, you’ll want to be as specific as possible. Focus your University of Rochester supplement essay not just on what opportunities Rochester offers but on how these opportunities will help you grow. The admissions team should come away from your Rochester essay with a solid sense not just of what you will bring to Rochester, but, moreover, of what Rochester (and only Rochester) can do for you.

• Do you use your University of Rochester supplemental essay to highlight your understanding of Rochester’s opportunities?
• Does your University of Rochester supplement essay demonstrate your long-term goals and how Rochester will help you reach them?
• Does your Rochester essay response illustrate how you’ll contribute to campus life?

University of Rochester Supplemental Essay Questions – Final Thoughts

The University of Rochester essay prompts may seem overwhelming, especially in light of the high University of Rochester ranking and the low University of Rochester acceptance rate. However, don’t let that discourage you! With these tips, you can write an engaging set of University of Rochester supplemental essays and maximize your chances against the University of Rochester acceptance rate. Good luck!

This 2021-2022 essay guide was written by Sasha Litzenberger. Want help crafting your University of Rochester supplemental essays? Create your free  account  or  schedule a free advising consultation  by calling (844) 343-6272.

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Letters of Recommendation

See also the Health Committee Letter >

Who should you ask?

Letters from science professors are essential. If you are not a science major, a letter from a faculty member in your department of concentration is also advantageous. Some health programs (particularly osteopathic medical, veterinary, and dental schools) require a letter from a practitioner in the field. Other good sources of letters are summer and part-time employers, people who have supervised you in volunteer work, athletic coaches, and other University staff members and administrators who are familiar with your participation in campus activities.

Character reference letters are not helpful

The neighbor who happens to be a dentist, the clergy member who knows your family through church or temple, a family friend, etc.. might all say nice things about you because they like you. But these are not useful letters. Recommendations should come from people who can comment on your performance and/or abilities in substantive areas.

Two kinds of useful faculty letters

Ideally, your letter writers should know you well and be able to support your application with enthusiasm and relevant detail. Still, it is possible to get a useful recommendation from a faculty member who taught you and 250 other students in a particular course. At the very least, an instructor for a course in which you did very well will be able to discuss the format and content of the course and how you performed in comparison with the rest of the class. If the instructor states that there were twenty graduate students in the class and you, as a junior, received a higher grade than sixteen of them on the final exam, that will tell your schools something very important about you.

How and when to ask for a letter

Make your request in person and make arrangements well before any deadlines. Faculty are very busy people and often travel, so it is best to give them plenty of time to write your letter. When you meet, bring copies of tests, papers and lab reports with you if possible, and ask the person if (s)he would be able to write you a favorable recommendation. Talk about your goals, offer to furnish any other useful information, such as a resume, and be prepared to spend a little time answering questions. Be sure to let your recommenders know why it is that you are approaching them for a letter of recommendation – did you find their teaching style innovative or their passion for the subject matter contagious? It is also important that you find out the preferred method of communication for the person writing your letter of recommendation (email, telephone etc.).

Guideline for those writing a letter of reference

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) has published Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Evaluation for a Medical School Applicant on their website.  Those writing letters of recommendation can view and print these guidelines from their website. 

Confidential vs. non-confidential letters

If you choose to ask your recommenders to write confidential letters, this means that you will not be able to see the contents of the letters they write. In general, confidential letters are given more weight by admissions committees than non-confidential letters. For this reason we encourage students to request confidential letters. We also encourage students to forthrightly discuss their plans with their letter writers and ask their recommenders if they feel comfortable supporting the student in pursuit of those plans.

Video Essays Replace MS Admission Interviews

August 22, 2024 | trista kukucka.

The following blog post was written by Trista Kukucka, director of MS admissions. Trista oversees recruitment and enrollment for all five of our full-time specialized master's programs. With almost a decade of experience working with Simon MS students, the Simon community truly feels like family. While she loves the travel opportunities that her role provides, she most enjoys meeting and welcoming incoming students after working with them all year! 

Our application opens in early September, and we are particularly excited to announce the following update: starting with 2025 entry, MS applicants will no longer complete an admission interview! Instead, MS applicants will be required to complete a video essay as part of their application.

Video essays have been available in the past for MS applicants, but making them a requirement will enhance the admissions process by eliminating the need for a formal admission interview. This change will provide the Admissions Committee with a greater understanding of each candidate via their video response. While we thoroughly evaluate every transcript, test score, and written essay, the video essay allows us to better understand the applicant's personality and communication style. We believe this will be a particular benefit to our international MS applicants as it maximizes flexibility by removing challenges of scheduling interviews across time zones. Additionally, receiving video essay responses shortly after application submission will allow for a quicker admission review, and in many cases, a more timely admission decision.

How it works

Upon submission of your application, your video essay link will appear in your Applicant Status Portal. You will find the link under the application checklist—navigate to the checklist, click on the Video Essay link, and follow the instructions. You have five days from the time you submit your application to complete the mandatory video essay (you will not have access to the link until you submit your application). 

You will receive a single question (similar to those asked by our Admissions Committee during an in-person interview). You will have 30 seconds to prepare your response and then up to 90 seconds to answer the question. You do not have to use the entire 90 seconds, so if you finish your answer earlier, it’s fine to stop the recording.

Important Note: If you do not complete your video essay within five days of application submission, your application may be reviewed without this required component.

Things to consider before recording your video essay

• Relax and be yourself—let your personality shine! The goal of our video essay is to get to know you better.
• Utilize the practice questions and time to get comfortable with the technology.
• Conduct your video essay in a quiet and comfortable space and lessen any distractions. 
• Consider your appearance. While we want this to be a lighthearted experience, we’re also looking to see how you will fare in a professional school and future career setting.
• While we are interested in getting to know you, a focused response to the question asked is important.  

Important reminders

• A secure internet connection and a computer with a webcam and microphone is necessary. In addition, you will need to use either Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox to complete the video essay. 
• You have three attempts to record your video essay, and each attempt will present a different question. Note: beginning a new recording will forfeit previous attempts.
• You have 30 seconds to prepare your answer.
• You have up to 90 seconds to respond.
• On your third attempt, your final video will automatically submit, and you will not have the option to retract it. Please be mindful.

We hope this change simplifies the application process and reduces a known stressor for many applicants. If you have any questions or would like advice on recording your video essay, please feel free to reach out to Admissions for support. We wish you all the best as you prepare for business school!  

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Transfer Students

The Fall 2024 application is live on Common App . For priority consideration, the Fall 2024 application should be completed by March 15 with all materials being submitted shortly after.  Our first notifications will be sent towards the end of March for early completers and rolling every few weeks after that. Applications will shut down for new application submissions on June 15 and all missing materials must be here by June 20 for consideration. Applications incomplete at that point will not be considered.

The 2025 (spring and fall) application will not be available until August 1.

Have questions? Email [email protected] for Admissions questions or connect with Financial Aid.

Schedule a prospective transfer student advising appointment with one of our transfer team members to review your transcript, curriculum requirements, and/or get advisement on course selection. A formal credit evaluation will be provided to students with an admissions offer.

Stephanie Graham, Senior Admissions Counselor Schedule via Bookings

Tanya Strachan, Associate Director Schedule via Bookings

I am…

Begin your application

• Apply online through the  Common Application (CA) which will include a Personal Statement essay and the Rochester supplemental questions which includes 2 short answer questions.

Note: Transfers can be considered for  GEAR ,  GRADE , and  HEAL  (not  DDE or REMS ). Applications to the Eastman School of Music and the College are separate due to different deadlines, but if admitted to both and enrolled at both you could pursue a dual degree. 

Submit your supporting materials

The following  required materials  must be submitted to us directly by your school, testing site, or family member, depending on the document:

• Official college transcript(s)
• Final high school transcript*
• Academic Evaluator recommendation (ideally a college professor)
• A  Course-by-Course  Credential Evaluation of college transcripts ( required if college education has been outside the US).  Acceptable outside companies to use for the evaluation are  World Education Services (WES)  or  Education Credential Evaluators (ECE) . Please ensure you’ve requested your reports to be sent to the University of Rochester upon completion. View Rochester’s ECE landing page .

*If you have completed at least one year of full-time college coursework, you may request your high school transcript not be considered. Please email us at [email protected] after you’ve applied to request this. However, sending more information may improve your chances of admission.

You can also  sign up for an interview (highly recommended) and/or submit the following  materials :

• College Report (CA) (suggested)
• Transfer Mid-Term Report (CA) (recommended for all)
• Official test scores
• Additional Academic Evaluator, teacher, or counselor recommendation
• Links to electronic media (music, websites, photos, videos, etc.)
• Family Peer Recommendation Form

The College Center for Advising Services provides additional information regarding  transfer credit policies  and  cluster requirements  for transfers.

International students

International students will need to submit additional documents to be considered for admission to the University of Rochester:

• English language exam results  OR  English Proficiency Requirement Waiver Request
• International Financial Support Form (IFSF) or the CSS Profile (If un able to meet the full cost of attendance for Rochester without need-based aid or sponsorship from the University.)
• A Course-by-Course Credential Evaluation of college transcripts ( required if college education has been outside the US).  Acceptable outside companies to use for the evaluation are the  World Education Services (WES)  or  Education Credential Evaluators (ECE) . Please ensure you’ve requested your reports be sent to the University of Rochester upon completion.

Details for international applicants

Monroe Community College 2+2 Dual Admission Degree Program

The College in Arts, Sciences & Engineering has a dual admissions agreement program with Monroe Community College (MCC). You enroll in the 2+2 program through  Monroe Community College  and complete a set of courses for your academic interest, leading to an associate degree. You are then guaranteed admission to continue your studies at the University of Rochester in your chosen major of study.

The program is best for first-year, full-time students who know which bachelor’s degree they want to pursue. You’ll complete recommended courses of study, receive a minimum grade requirement, and transfer to the University after two years with junior class standing.

Admissions counselors visit  MCC’s Advisement Center  every semester to advise you on your academic plans.  Degree audit sheets are also available to help guide you with your course selection. Our MCC’ Master List of reviewed courses can also be used.

If you’re a current MCC Dual 2+2 student finishing the program, you must submit the following to the University of Rochester the semester before you plan to enroll as a full-time Rochester student:

• MCC  2+2 Intent to Enroll Form *
• Official college transcript from MCC and any other school(s) attended
• Official AP/IB exam results if seeking college credit
• Transfer Midterm Report (suggested)
• A resume and an admissions interview are recommended for those wishing to compete for potential merit scholarships
• If applicable,  apply for financial aid

*The Intent to Enroll Form should be completed by March 15 for fall enrollment and October 15 for spring enrollment at Rochester.

Rochester offers 2+2 programs in the following academic areas:

• Anthropology
• Art History
• Biomedical Engineering
• Black Studies
• Chemical Engineering
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• English majors – British and American Literature, Creative Writing, Language, Media & Communications, or Theater
• Mathematics
• Political Science
• Studio arts

Some of our engineering 2+2 program requirements have cross-registering requirements for courses at Rochester while enrolled at Monroe Community College which allow a student to stay on track as a junior. These cross-registration courses are processed through the Rochester Area Colleges (RAC) Inter-Institutional program agreement. When taking cross-registration courses, you’ll follow the RAC procedures  on the registrar’s site.

Current Eastman School of Music students

Students who are currently enrolled at the Eastman School of Music can take advantage of academic opportunities at the University of Rochester.

Eastman students can take some courses in the College of Arts, Sciences & Engineering in addition to their Eastman degree. It’s often helpful to do this to explore your interests and confirm your plans to pursue a dual degree program at the College. Taking some ASE courses lets you a start on the College requirements and demonstrate the ability to navigate two challenging degree paths at the same time.

Some students choose to add a dual degree with the College and complete a degree from both campuses. After consulting with Eastman’s Academic Affairs Office a student may also decide to transfer from Eastman to the College.

Either way, we’ll work with you to make the transition as seamless as possible so you can stay on track while making the most of your education at Rochester.

If you’re a current Eastman School of Music student looking to add a dual degree with the College, you must complete the  ESM Intent to Enroll Form .

• Fall enrollment: Complete Intent to Enroll Form by March 15
• Spring enrollment: Complete Intent to Enroll Form by October 15

These deadlines allow us time to receive, review, and respond to your academic credentials. Beyond your intent to enroll form, we will request your high school transcript and Eastman transcript to consider your academic preparation for success in your College major.

It is recommended that first-year students wait until after they’ve completed their first year and have taken some College courses to seek that degree.

You will receive a decision from the Office of Admissions at the College regarding your request to add a dual degree about a month after submitting the intent form to our MyRoc applicant portal. You must submit a reply form to confirm your enrollment in a dual degree.

If you’re currently enrolled at Eastman but want to pursue a degree only from the College in Arts, Sciences & Engineering, you should apply as a transfer student following instructions for the  Common Application process.

Please make sure you’ve consulted with Eastman’s Academic Affairs Office before submitting an application as you’d have to follow procedures to drop your degree. Scholarships awarded by Eastman will not follow you and you’ll be considered for scholarships through the College’s Admissions Office review.

Non-matriculated part-time studies

If you’re interested in taking non-matriculated (non-degree) part-time or full-time courses at the University of Rochester, you can register for courses through the  Office of Summer and Continuing Studies .

No more than six non-matriculated courses taken at the University can be applied toward a Rochester degree.

If you’re looking to earn a degree from Rochester, you must apply for admission, be accepted, and matriculate into a degree-seeking program. You would follow the transfer application instructions on this page and submit the Common Application material. You can indicate if you are seeking enrollment as a part-time or full-time student in the application.

Staff in the Office of Admissions can discuss your academic background and any future plans you may have for applying to a degree program. Some students find it helpful to take non-matriculated courses and then apply after they’ve take a few Rochester courses. You can contact us at (585) 275-3221 or [email protected] .

If you are a University of Rochester employee, you and your children may be eligible for tuition benefits . If it’s been a while since you’ve been in the classroom or are looking to pursue a different path you may want to take some non-matriculated courses prior to applying to matriculate in a degree program.

Application for readmission

Previously a student at Rochester

If you were a student at the University of Rochester and either withdrew in good standing or were separated from the University, you do not reapply through the Office of Admissions. Instructions and policies regarding readmission to the College can be found on the College Center for Advising Services website.

Submit your financial aid application

Investing in a quality education is a big decision. At Rochester, we provide a sound program of need-based financial assistance. Typical packages include scholarships, grants, loans, work-study, and outside awards.

Undergraduate transfer students applying as US citizens or  eligible non-citizens  must submit the FAFSA for federal funding and the CSS Profile for University funding. We may request additional items once a financial aid counselor reviews your application.

Rochester is need-aware for transfer applicants and it is incorporated into our holistic review. Institutional aid is extremely limited for non-US citizens transfer applicants.

Learn more about financial aid .

Legacy Applicants

A legacy applicant is someone who is related to an alumnus of Rochester —usually a child of a graduate.

University of Rochester alumni are an integral part of our community and play an important role in telling our story to prospective students and parents far and wide. By extension we look forward to welcoming future generations of highly-qualified Rochester legacies to join the University family.

• Legacy students’ applications will be reviewed using the same holistic, multi-reader review process in which all applicants are reviewed.
• Legacy applicants do not automatically receive special attention or consideration.
• Students are not automatically admitted to the University of Rochester based on legacy status.
• Invited to special events (as part of Meliora weekend and throughout the year) regarding college applications presented by our Admissions staff.

Commonly Asked Questions

A detailed pre-enrollment Transfer Credit Evaluation will be included with an admissions offer. Courses taken at another college are evaluated individually for transfer credit. If coursework is judged as comparable in level and content to coursework offered at the University of Rochester, and completed with a grade of C or better, it will transfer for elective credit.

Credit for “P”, “S”, and “CR” (or similar grades) where there is not another grading option will be awarded as elective credit. In the event that there is a letter grade underneath the “P,” “S” or “CR” that is below “C,” credit will not be awarded. However, elective credit will be granted for all “P”, “S” and “CR” grades earned during the Spring 2020 semester due to pandemic academic interruption.

All transfer coursework comes in as elective credit. To obtain course equivalencies, students must reach out to the authorized departmental contact from the following list:  https://www.rochester.edu/college/ccas/undergraduate/curriculum/authorized-approval-list.html . The College Center for Advising Services provides additional information regarding  transfer credit policies  and  cluster requirements  for transfers.

The articulation guide of Monroe Community College courses can be used as a resource to see what types of courses could transfer from other institutions.

Part 1 – The University of Rochester motto of Meliora – or “ever better” – deeply integrates core values into all that we do. These core values of equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability define not only who we are, but also who we hope to become. Please use the space to highlight a time, creative idea or research experience when you put into action one or more of these characteristics in order to make yourself, your community or the world ever better. (250 word limit)

Part 2  – Choose one of the following prompts to reflect on in a short essay: (200 word limit)

American social reformer, abolitionist, writer and statesman Frederick Douglass said, “Some know the value of education by having it. I knew its value by not having it.” Explain ways in which education has directly influenced you and your ability to do good in the world. How will you use the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities of the University of Rochester experience to grow and promote positive change for yourself, your community and the world?

Dr. Donna Strickland, University of Rochester alum and 2018 Nobel Prize winner in Physics said, “There’s no point in me being anything other than me.” The University of Rochester encourages each student to embrace multiple aspects of their identity and create their own individual curricular path and experience. How will you use the opportunities here to fully be who you are? What unique elements of your background, perspectives, and experiences will you bring to our community?

The University of Rochester benefactor entrepreneur, photography pioneer and philanthropist George Eastman said, “What we do during our working hours determines what we have; what we do in our leisure hours determines what we are.” Looking forward towards your college experience, what do you hope to do outside of the classroom at the University of Rochester that will enhance who you are as a person? What past involvements have helped define your identity and your role within your many communities?

Susan B. Anthony, champion of abolition and women’s rights, once said “Organize, agitate, education must be our war cry.” As you look to join our community of doers and disruptors, in what ways do you envision using both the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities to invoke change for marginalized groups? How has your unique lived experience shaped your identity and prepared you to be a changemaker here?

If you have graduated from high school or earned a high school equivalency, and have enrolled and will complete eight or more college credits following graduation, you would be considered a transfer applicant. If you matriculated somewhere else but have withdrawn you could be considered as a first-year applicant, but you should address your withdrawal within your application.

Applicants who are most competitive for transfer admission will have completed at least a year of college courses (24–32 credits) at the time of applying.

If you have graduated from high school more than two years ago but have not taken college level classes, you are considered a  first-year  applicant. You may be more competitive for admissions by taking some college courses and then applying as a transfer. Every applicant’s situation is different and you may want to contact us about your circumstances.

If you are obtaining a high school diploma and or an associate degree through a dual-enrollment or “early college” program, you will be considered as a  first-year  applicant because you have not officially graduated from high school. Rochester requires that students have a high school diploma or equivalency. College courses can be considered for transfer credit if they were done on a college campus prior to equivalency earned but will not be applied to advance class standing or used for the Rochester curriculum requirements. First-year applicants can only accelerate graduation by one semester and transfers it will depend upon credits awarded. See the Enrollment Policy .

A number of applicants may qualify for an application fee waiver. When using the Common Application, you may be eligible for a waiver based upon need criteria that is determined based upon your response to questions. There is also waivers issued by Rochester based upon the additional criteria that can be selected in our member questions if you fit additional criteria:

• For Phi Theta Kappa members
• For Veterans or Active Duty military
• For students in a New York State Opportunity program (HEOP, EOP, SEEK, or College Discovery)
• For applicants who attended high school within the Rochester City School District
• For graduates of the Say Yes to College Program
• For students who have received approval based upon financial hardship from a Rochester Admissions Counselor
• For Recruited athletes

For the fall of 2024, the typical student admitted at Rochester:

• Took challenging college courses
• Maintained a median college GPA of 3.6. This varies by semester but most admitted students have earned above a 3.3.
• Has started or is prepared to explore classes within their major area of interest
• Joined as incoming sophomores or juniors based on awarded transfer credits
• Demonstrated an active, independent role in their educational, personal, and community activities

We value unquantifiable strengths such as initiative, creativity, enthusiasm, openness, motivation, and leadership, and we’re also careful to ensure our student body represents the full spectrum of diversity, including hometowns, ideas, and experiences.

This report collects information about your standing at your current institution. A dean, registrar, advisor, or other college official who has access to your academic records can complete this report. You may need to inquire at your institution to determine who can submit this report for you.

It takes about 4-6 weeks to review an application and notify you of the decision. Review of Fall semester applications begins in early March, with notification beginning in mid-March. Review of Spring semester applications begins in September, with notification beginning in early October. You are encouraged to complete your application by the priority deadline to receive earlier notification and for strongest consideration. If you complete your application after the priority deadline, you will be reviewed and notified on a rolling basis. Notification may take longer if we need to request additional information.

All students’ decisions will be posted to your MyROC applicant portal. You’ll receive an email when a decision has been made and posted. Please check your MyROC applicant portal to ensure your contact information is accurate and to follow your application through the review stages. For those admitted to Rochester along with the decision there will be copy of your transfer credit evaluation released at the time of acceptance based upon completed and any in progress courses. Please make sure to save a copy of the PDF of your evaluation for your records as it can be helpful when speaking to faculty about credit that won’t have access to it.

Rochester highly encourages you to interview. An interview with a Rochester representative is a great way to talk about your background, experiences, and interests. Rochester students are so much more than just pieces of paper, and we want to take the time to get to know you. Notes from interviews are used in our review, so interviews should be complete by the time your application is submitted for our review. Interviews can help us get to know you better and help with merit scholarship consideration.

If you want to enroll for the fall semester, interview in the spring. If you want to enroll in the spring, interview in the summer or fall. You can interview prior to submitting your application or after, but to insure your interview is included in our review make sure it’s done by when all required application material is here for review.

Yes. All applicants are considered for merit-based scholarships. Rochester receives applications from many qualified students, but not every admitted student will receive a scholarship. You are considered holistically for potential merit scholarships and about 45% of admitted transfer students will receive a scholarship. An average transfer scholarship amount is $12,000 per year of study, but there are higher amounts awarded. If you are awarded a merit based scholarship, it will be included in your admissions decision letter.

The Financial Aid Office will email you a few business days after your admissions decision has been released to sign into the secure FAO online to view your package. The Financial Aid Office must have all of the required documents to complete the package in the time period. If you are applying for aid, you should complete your FAFSA  and  CSS PROFILE  at the same time you are submitting your application for admission, so that the financial aid process is not held up. In addition to the FAFSA and CSS Profile, Rochester collects tax information through the  College Board’s IDOC Service . If you have questions regarding aid, please  contact the Financial Aid Office .

Credit can be awarded for the following official exam results for Advanced Placement , International Baccalaureate , and A-level exams.

Credit is not grant transfer credit for American Council on Education (ACE), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), or DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST).

Some Rochester academic departments (languages and mathematics) have placement exams available to help advise students proper course sequencing placement. Consult with the academic department if you have a question about course placement based upon your foundation.

Graduation year and class standing is determined by the number of credit hours granted at the time of entrance. The class year gives you an idea of how long it would take you to earn the minimum of 128 credit hours to complete a degree at Rochester. Graduation class year may change depending on your academic foundation for an intended major (especially true for engineering, computer science, digital media studies, and public health) or course of study.

You are encouraged to speak with an academic department adviser about any questions regarding major course equivalences. Faculty identified as department contacts can be found on the  Authorized Approval List .

The table below illustrates the number of credit hours associated with each class standing.

Rochester does require students to maintain full-time enrollment for at least 4 semesters in order to obtain a degree. Depending on how many credits the student comes in with the Enrollment Policy dictates how many semesters you’d have to be a student to earn the minimum of 128 credits required for graduation.

A maximum of 64 credit hours from a two-year school may transfer to your Rochester degree requirements. Transferrable courses beyond the 64 credit limit can be used towards major requirement but won’t continue to accrue.

If you are transferring from a four-year school, you may transfer more than 64 credits. However, students must complete at least four full-time semesters at Rochester in order to obtain a degree.

Yes. You can apply as a transfer student to obtain a second degree. The degree must be in a completely different area of study than your first degree and might not be advised depending on your goals. The College may not be able to award a second degree if you’re looking for a second BA degree.

Second degree students receive little financial aid support and it might be best for you to consider a graduate program. You are encouraged to speak with an admissions counselor and potentially a graduate department head about your plans and goals.

Yes. Transfer applicants must be currently enrolled in a HEOP, EOP, SEEK or College Discovery program and meet regular admission standards as a transfer applicant. In addition, there must be space available in our program and you need to provide documentation verifying your eligibility. HEOP counselors are available to assist you with questions about the program and potential openings. For more information, please call (585) 275-0651 or visit Rochester’s program for more information .

Yes. However, the nursing program is not an entry-level program. You must have either an RN license or a bachelor’s degree and apply directly to the School of Nursing.

They do offer accelerated programs for students who have a bachelors in a non-Nursing area. You could transfer to Rochester to pursue a bachelors degree in something from the College of Arts, Sciences, & Engineering, do Nursing pre-requisites, and then apply one of the School of Nursing programs.

For more information, please  contact the School of Nursing .

Fantastic! Once you have enrolled, you will receive email communications from Admissions with the next steps for new students. You will get a lot of information to read through, forms to complete, and additional information about Orientation and Advising leading up to the term you are joining us. Orientation will take over communications and provide students with pre-arrival information. Course registration happens after you’ve met with your assigned college advisor prior to the start of the semester. If you are looking to get a jump-start on things, be sure to monitor Orientation website to see the most up to date information.

Check your application status

MyROC is our online undergraduate admissions portal. Use it regularly after you’ve submitted application materials to make sure we have everything on file. Please note that it can take up to two weeks for some paperwork to be manually processed. Please reach out if you have questions about what you are seeing in your checklist.