NudgeEssay

George Washington University

2026-27 · Common App

Early Decision
November 1, 2026
Early Decision II
January 5, 2027
Regular Decision
January 5, 2027

This college does not publish its questions.

GW does not print its questions on its own site, and it calls this supplement optional while one guide calls it required. Three guides agree on the wording below. Treat it as optional but expected, and check your own application.

Personal statement required (250-650 words), plus one supplement, chosen from two options:

  1. Optional (choose 1 of 2) · 500 words

    At The George Washington University, our students frequently interact with policymakers and world leaders. These experiences and those of our alumni can shape the future of global affairs. If you had the power to change the course of history in your community or the world, what would you do and why?

    Option A of the GW Writing Supplement. Sources disagree on whether it is required: GW's own site calls the Writing Supplement optional and says non-submitters 'will not be penalized'; College Essay Advisors (2026-27) also says optional; College Essay Guy (2026/2027) labels it required. CollegeVine (2025-26) says optional but strongly encouraged. Also note capitalization varies between sources: College Essay Guy prints 'At The George Washington University', CollegeVine prints 'At the George Washington University'.

    Review my draft

  2. Optional (choose 1 of 2) · 500 words

    The George Washington University encourages students to think critically and to challenge the status quo. Thus, civil discourse is a key characteristic of our community. Describe a time when you engaged others in meaningful dialogue around an issue that was important to you. Did this exchange create change, new perspectives, or deeper relationships?

    Option B of the GW Writing Supplement. Same required/optional disagreement as Option A.

    Review my draft

Deadlines around the same time