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Personal Essay Topic Ideas

The University has a compelling interest in promoting a diverse student body because of the educational benefits that flow from such diversity. Your personal essay allows you to express yourself and share the unique experiences and attributes you will bring to Colorado State. You may choose your own topic or address one or more of the following: 

  • Obstacles or challenges you have overcome in your personal and/or academic life.
  • An experience or event that has shaped who you are and who you want to become, that has allowed you to demonstrate leadership, and/or that illustrates service to others (family, school, community).
  • Unique educational experiences (e.g., homeschool, early graduate, overseas study, non-traditional student, etc.).
  • Why Colorado State is a good match and/or why you have chosen your particular major or career goal.
  • Any additional information you think is important.

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How to Apply

Application Checklist

Application for Admission form

  • Submit only one online OR paper application (online preferred)

$50 nonrefundable application processing fee

  • You may pay online (e-check, Visa or MasterCard options, with exact billing address and valid email address) OR by check or money order (payable to Colorado State University; note applicant's full name).

An official transcript from EACH college/university attended

  • College/university transcripts are required regardless of the amount or type of credit earned.
  • Faxed transcripts are not accepted.
  • Official transcripts for military educational experience are required.

An official high school transcript and ACT or SAT results

  • Your high school transcript is necessary to verify high school graduation.
  • Your high school transcript also may be used to determine whether you satisfy course work requirements (e.g., mathematics) and, in some cases, to determine admissibility.
  • Your test scores may be used to determine placement into college composition if you have not successfully completed the course prior to enrollment.
  • Second Bachelor's Candidate's / Postgraduate Applicants are not required to submit high school transcript or ACT/SAT results.

Personal Essay

  • Your essay must be a minimum 250 words, and quality is more important than quantity.
  • Your essay should be focused, honest, and well-written in your own words.
  • Topic ideas are listed in the right menu bar on this page, in the printed application instructions, and within the online application.

Recommendation(s)

  • One recommendation is required for full admission and scholarship consideration; additional recommendations are optional.
  • Your recommendation(s) should come from individuals who can speak to your personal character and potential for academic success at Colorado State University. Feedback from a teacher or school-based official is preferred.
  • You may submit the Printable Recommendation Form OR a letter of recommendation OR both.

Apply Now

Send Application Materials To:

Office of Admissions
Colorado State University
1062 Campus Delivery
Fort Collins CO 80523-1062


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