751. ARE SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAYS DEAD?

Even in the Common App era, completing college applications can feel like an interminably long and complex process with far too many permutations from one school to another. But some schools are announcing what appear to be efforts to eliminate application bloat. Are they really, though? Amy and Mike invited independent education consultant Beth Kraemer to answer the question, "Are supplemental essays dead?"

What are five things you will learn in this episode?

Why are some colleges eliminating supplemental essays, and do their stated reasons tell the whole story?

Are supplemental essays simply another application hurdle?

What additional information is elicited through supplemental essays?

Which schools have eliminated supplemental essays heading into the 2026-27 admissions cycle?

How should applicants determine whether they should write optional essays?

MEET OUR GUEST

Beth Kraemer is the co-founder of In College Consulting and has spent more than a decade helping families navigate the increasingly complex world of college admissions. With a background in journalism, education, and law, she brings both storytelling expertise and strategic thinking to her work with students.

Beth earned a journalism degree from Northwestern University, a master's degree from The Ohio State University, and a J.D. from the UCLA School of Law. She first became involved in admissions as a Northwestern alumni interviewer. She is a Professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association and regularly visits campuses to stay current on admissions trends.

In addition to her consulting work, Beth serves on the board of the Pinpoint Scholars Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access and leadership in STEM education.

Beth previously appeared on this podcast in episode 715 for an IEC PROFILE.