Back to list

Fordham University

New York, NY

Main Essay

Choose 1 of 7 prompts. 650-word limit.

Prompt 1650 words

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.

Prompt 2650 words

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?

Prompt 3650 words

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

Prompt 4650 words

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?

Prompt 5650 words

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

Prompt 6650 words

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?

Prompt 7650 words

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.

Supplement Essays

Optional. Choose 1 of the following 4 prompts. Maximum 300 words.

Prompt 1300 words

At Fordham, we expect students to care for and engage with their communities and be active citizens for positive change. Please share an experience you had that caused you to develop a new perspective, change your point of view, and/or empower you to take an action or be courageous. Your response should include examples of your personal growth (e.g., what did you learn, did your point of view change, did you develop new skills or strengths?).

Prompt 2300 words

Fordham, as a Jesuit university, recognizes the dignity, uniqueness, and potential of each person. A Fordham education is student-centered and rooted in close collaboration among students, faculty, and staff. Describe how you would contribute to our campus community as an actively engaged learner and leader. Specifically draw on your personal story, identity, experiences, strengths, and perspectives.

Prompt 3300 words

Our motto is "New York is my campus, Fordham is my school." New York City is a diverse and global city that provides Fordham students with a special kind of educational experience, full of both challenge and opportunity. What has prepared you to embrace the unique opportunity of living and learning in New York City?

Prompt 4300 words

Is there something that you are proud of that you would like to share with the Admission Committee?

See Rankings & Stats

View Fordham University's US News ranking, acceptance rate, SAT range, and tuition.

View ranking

See Example Essays

Read real essays from students accepted to Fordham University.

View example essays

Need help with your essays?

Consulting Agent evaluates your admissions readiness using real Ivy League criteria — for free.

Get Free Diagnosis