miami university college essay prompts

• Accessibility Options:
• Skip to Content
• Skip to Search
• Skip to footer
• Office of Disability Services
• Request Assistance
• 305-284-2374
• High Contrast
• School of Architecture
• College of Arts and Sciences
• Miami Herbert Business School
• School of Communication
• School of Education and Human Development
• College of Engineering
• School of Law
• Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science
• Miller School of Medicine
• Frost School of Music
• School of Nursing and Health Studies
• The Graduate School
• Division of Continuing and International Education
• People Search
• Class Search
• IT Help and Support
• Privacy Statement
• Student Life

• Search Site
• Academic Bulletin
• Undergraduate Financial Aid
• ’Canes Success Center
• Honors & Scholars Programs
• Dual-Degree Programs
• Experiential Learning
• Academic Resources

Requirements

Submit my application.

• Application Options & Deadlines
• My Application Status
• Admission Decisions Explained
• Withdraw My Application
• Transferring Credits
• Counselor Hub
• Scholarships
• Types of Aid
• Tuition & Costs
• Net Price Calculator
• Applying for Aid
• Office of Financial Assistance & Employment
• Living on Campus
• Health & Wellness
• Clubs & Organizations
• Campus Safety
• On-Campus Visit
• Self-Guided Walking Tour
• Group Tours
• Virtual Visit
• Virtual Tour
• Meet Your Guides
• Class Profile
• Admission Blog
• Información en Español
• Find Your Counselor
• Request Information
• How to Apply
• Tuition & Aid
• Information for Veterans
• International Evaluation Requirements
• English Proficiency Requirements
• Eligibility Requirements by Country
• International Evaluation Requirement
• Test Optional
• Financial Aid
• University of Miami Undergraduate Admission
• Admission Requirements

First-Year Admission Requirements

Related links.

1. Complete the Common Application

Complete and submit the  Common Application . Upon submitting, you will be asked to pay a $70 nonrefundable application fee.  Be sure you use the same email address for every part of the application process, including registering for standardized tests.

If applying for Spring or Fall 2024, you will be required to submit a supplemental essay of 250 words.

Supplemental essay prompt: 

Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the University of Miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. The University of Miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute.

Please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive University community.

In addition, students will be asked to respond to one of seven prompts in a personal statement of 650 words or less. 

These portions of the Common Application give you the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to develop your thoughts, to communicate them clearly, and to write them concisely conveying your unique voice. Please include a list of your extracurricular activities; these activities will be evaluated as part of the admission process.

2. Send Official High School Transcripts

If you attended high school in the United States, s ubmit your   official   high school transcripts directly from your high school. A school official may submit them electronically via the Common Application, Slate.org, SCOIR, or Parchment. They can also be emailed directly from your school official to [email protected] .

If electronic submission is not possible, these documents can be mailed to one of the following addresses:

Mailing Address University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission P.O. Box 249117 Coral Gables, FL 33124-9117   

If sending via FedEx, DHL, UPS, or courier University of Miami Office of Undergraduate Admission 1306 Stanford Drive University Center, Suite 2275 Coral Gables, FL 33146   

If you attended a secondary school outside of the United States, please refer to the International Evaluation Requirements page .

If you are a homeschooled applicant, please refer to the Homeschool Transcript Requirements page .

3. Submitting Test Scores

No change announced from current test optional policy for students who are applying for admission for the Spring or Fall 2024 term.

Students who choose to submit an ACT and/or SAT score may:

• Request that official scores be sent to the University directly from the testing agency.
• Self-report their scores on the Common Application. You will not need to Superscore your own results or recalculate your scores. Simply enter your scores exactly as you receive them. Students self-reporting scores will be required to submit official score reports only if they are admitted and choose to enroll.

All students whose native language is not English are required to submit official results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or  Duolingo English Test (DET) . For information on scores, visit the  English Proficiency Requirements  page. 

Architecture applicants not submitting test scores must instead submit a portfolio. All Music applicants complete an audition as part of the evaluation process.

Note:  You may update your decision to have your application reviewed with or without test scores even after you have submitted your application. Early Decision I and Early Action applicants have until November 15, while Early Decision II and Regular Decision applicants have until January 15 to update their file. 

Here are some examples of testing-specific updates applicants can make:

• Submit test scores for the Admission Committee’s consideration
• Update your test scores
• Update your choice to be test optional or not

To make these and other changes, applicants must complete the  Test Score Updates  form in the  Applicant Portal .

Submit your application by the stated deadline: November 1 for Early Decision I and Early Action or January 1 for Early Decision II and Regular Decision. The deadline for opting in or out of having your test scores considered as part of your application and for self-reporting your test scores is November 15 for Early Decision I and Early Action, and January 15 for Early Decision II and Regular Decision.

Test Codes for UM:

• TOEFL Code: C730
• IELTS Code: 4861
• ACT Code: 0760 
• SAT Code: 5815
• DET Code: select “University of Miami Undergraduate Admissions” from the options

4. Complete the School Report

The School Report should be completed by your high school guidance counselor and can be found on the  Common Application . It is often submitted along with your high school transcript and information about your high school. 

5. Submit a Letter of Recommendation

You are required to submit one letter of recommendation/evaluation, which can be from either a school counselor or a teacher. The most expedient way to submit your letter electronically is through the Common Application, Slate.org, Scoir, or Parchment.

6. Additional Requirements for Special Programs

• Bachelor of Architecture - Portfolio required if not submitting ACT/SAT scores
• Frost School of Music* - Supplemental Application, Prescreen, and Audition Required  
• Theatre Arts B.F.A.*   - Supplemental application and audition required

*Not available for Spring applicants

Supplemental applications are available in the Applicant Portal. Beginning mid-September, access to the portal will be granted 48-72 hours after  your admission application is received .  Please submit any additional documentation as soon as possible. We will accept documents  up to seven  days after the admission plan deadline.

Applicants to the Frost School of Music and the Theatre Arts B.F.A. program who are not admitted to the major of choice and did not indicate a second-choice major on their application will not be considered for admission to any other academic program at the University of Miami. Applicants may not add a second choice major after submitting their application to the University of Miami.

7. Submit Educational Activities

If you have a time gap of three months or more during your educational career or from the time you graduated high school to the date of your intended University of Miami enrollment, you must submit an Educational Activities statement in the Common Application explaining the reason for the gap(s) and include the dates.

If you are unable to provide this information within your Common Application, you can submit it through the applicant portal under the "Materials Upload" section, or by emailing it to  [email protected] . If emailing, be sure to include “Educational Activities” in the subject line and your full name and date of birth on all correspondence. This information is required to complete your application file.

8. Complete the Financial Certification Form (International applicants only)

All prospective first-year international students who apply for admission to UM must submit an International Financial Certification Form, which can be accessed via the Applicant Portal after you have submitted your application.

International applicants who are applying for need-based financial aid must also submit the CSS Profile.

9. Submit Financial Aid Documents

If you are applying for financial aid, review the checklist on our  Applying for Aid  page. There you will find the dates and required documents that must be submitted in order to be considered for need-based financial aid.

10. Send Conduct Updates

If there is any update to your academic achievement or personal   conduct, you must notify the Office of Undergraduate Admission immediately by uploading the documentation to your Applicant Portal in the "Materials Upload" section or by emailing the update to  [email protected] . 

Be sure to include your name and date of birth on all documents.

Check Your Application Status

Office of Undergraduate Admission

• 1306 Stanford Drive, Suite 1210 Coral Gables , FL 33146
• TEL: 305-284-6000 TEL: 305-284-6000
• FAX: 305-284-2507
• UM News and Events
• Alumni & Friends
• Hurricane Sports
• University Hotline

Tools and Resources

• Academic Calendar
• Department Search
• Parking & Transportation
• social-facebook
• social-twitter
• social-youtube
• social-instagram

Copyright: 2024 University of Miami. All Rights Reserved. Emergency Information Privacy Statement & Legal Notices Title IX & Gender Equity Website Feedback

Individuals with disabilities who experience any technology-based barriers accessing the University’s websites or services can visit the Office of Workplace Equity and Inclusion .

University of Miami Supplemental Essays 2023-24 Prompts and Advice

August 28, 2023

In the 1980s and ‘90s, the University of Miami was a football powerhouse; albeit one with its fair share of controversy. In the 2020s, the school has more to brag about on the academic front than on the gridiron. Now attracting close to 50,000 applications and sporting an acceptance rate of just 19%  (and dropping), U Miami has become a highly selective university that is no longer anything close to a sure thing, even for students with excellent grades and test scores. This means that, in 2023-24, the University of Miami supplemental essay is more important than ever before.

 (Want to learn more about How to Get Into the University of Miami? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into the University of Miami: Admissions Data and Strategies   for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

Although it only has one general essay prompt, the University of Miami’s supplemental section still affords applicants an opportunity to illustrate what makes them uniquely qualified for admission. Below is U Miami’s supplemental prompt for the 2023-24 admissions cycle. Additionally, we offer advice on how to pen a winning composition.

2023-2024 U Miami Supplemental Essays

Prompt 1 (250 Words): Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the University of Miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. The University of Miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute. Please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive University community.

Pro tip: the language used in any given prompt provides you with critical information about what your essay should address. As such, note the information that U Miami chooses to share about itself : a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity and strives to create a culture of belonging . Essentially, they want to know how you will contribute to that mission, and how your personal experiences will impact what kind of academic and social community member you might be.

University of Miami supplemental essays (Continued)

As such, you might consider discussing:

• Your role in your family.
• Your role in your social group.
• A challenge you’ve faced.
• A formative experience or realization.
• An opinion or perspective that has developed over time.
• Important aspects of your upbringing.
• Cultural, religious, community influence.
• A skill you have that you feel could impact others in a positive way.

Once you’ve chosen a particular direction, think about what you’ve learned from the experience. Also ponder what you think others could learn from you. Most importantly, how will your learnings positively contribute to U Miami’s mission? This is a chance to show that you are an open-minded, curious, and humble young person who is willing to learn and grow from their experiences.

How important is the UMiami supplemental essay?

The essays (both the Common App essay and the supplemental one) are “very important” to the evaluation process. Five other factors are also considered as “very important.” These factors are: rigor of coursework, class rank, GPA, recommendations, and extracurricular activities. Clearly, the University of Miami places enormous value on the quality of your supplemental essay.

Want personalized essay assistance with the University of Miami supplemental essays?

In conclusion, if you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your University of Miami supplement, we encourage you to  get a quote  today.

• College Essay

Andrew Belasco

A licensed counselor and published researcher, Andrew's experience in the field of college admissions and transition spans two decades. He has previously served as a high school counselor, consultant and author for Kaplan Test Prep, and advisor to U.S. Congress, reporting on issues related to college admissions and financial aid.

• 2-Year Colleges
• Application Strategies
• Big Picture
• Career & Personality Assessment
• College Search/Knowledge
• College Success
• Costs & Financial Aid
• Dental School Admissions
• Extracurricular Activities
• Graduate School Admissions
• High School Success
• High Schools
• Law School Admissions
• Medical School Admissions
• Navigating the Admissions Process
• Online Learning
• Private High School Spotlight
• Summer Program Spotlight
• Summer Programs
• Test Prep Provider Spotlight

“Innovative and invaluable…use this book as your college lifeline.”

— Lynn O'Shaughnessy

Nationally Recognized College Expert

College Planning in Your Inbox

Join our information-packed monthly newsletter.

Sign Up Now

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

2 Magnificent University of Miami Essay Examples

Located in sunny Miami, the University of Miami consistently ranks as one of the top 50 colleges in the country. With over 180 degree programs to choose from, more than 300 student organizations, and a prime location in one of the most vibrant cities in the U.S., there is something for everyone at UMiami—especially those that love the sun!

Given how much UMiami has to offer, getting in isn’t easy: you’ll need more than just strong grades and test scores. Your essays will play a large role in your admissions decision, so they need to be good. In this post, we will share two essays that got students accepted into UMiami We will also go over what each essay did well and where there is room for improvement.

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 UMiami essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

Essay Example #1 – Perspective

I had been dreaming of my high school experience since my six-year-old self watched High School Musical. I saw this dream shatter, as I was tasked with watching my baby sister after school until 5:30 due to my mom’s struggles with her birth. Although months had passed since the birth, she continuously struggled with c-section recovery. After one of my mom’s surgeries, my sister and I went to the hospital to visit her. Seeing her in such a fragile and vulnerable state shocked me into reality. 

One day I would be the person carrying on the family name. I worked hard academically to make the family proud, but failed to embody the mindset and values my mother taught me. All her positivity, love for new experiences and family were clouded by my disappointment and frustration. Watching my sister wasn’t the fun, new experience I hoped for, but it was the one I was given and I needed to embrace it with the same happiness and excitement as the other.  

In the previous years, I had failed myself before I even started with my pessimistic mindset. This period in life showed me the importance mindsets hold. When I began to embrace and enjoy my time watching my sister, I realized I still lived out my dream. I cheered her on in games peek-a-boo and created our own, personal coloring club. Now when things are not going to plan, I take on the challenge of remaining positive with a smile.

What the Essay Did Well

This is a classic “ Overcoming Challenges ” prompt, so the key to writing a strong response is to focus not just on the challenge itself, but also your thoughts and feelings to demonstrate how you grew as a result of experiencing the challenge. This essay does just that.

The shift from context to self-reflection occurs at the end of the first paragraph with the sentence “ Seeing her in such a fragile and vulnerable state shocked me into reality. ” What follows is a description of the student’s thoughts, which shows readers what being shocked into reality meant for them, and why that shock caused them to change their mindset.

We see the student start to see their unexpected high school experience not as a burden, but a responsibility and perhaps even an honor: “ One day I would be the person carrying on the family name.” They also show humility by explaining how they “ failed to embody the mindset and values ” of their mom, and then telling us what those values were by describing her “ love for new experiences and family. ” 

Additionally, opening the essay with the lighthearted, fun image of High School Musical is a savvy choice, as the contrast between the “ fun, new experience [they] hoped for ,” and the serious, mature position they actually found themself in emphasizes the emotional weight of the student’s situation.

It’s also nice that this essay finishes by showing us what the student’s new mindset looks like: “ I cheered her on in games peek-a-boo and created our own, personal coloring club. ” Since the “Overcoming Challenges” essay is usually about a heavy topic, readers will appreciate things ending on an uplifting note.

Although a lot of the focus should be your thoughts and emotions in this type of essay, getting to see how those internal factors affected your choices and actions takes the story out of your head, and proves that this experience changed not just your mindset, but also how you conduct yourself out in the world.

What Could Be Improved

While the first paragraph does a nice job providing context, it could be rewritten to be more engaging by telling the story like it’s currently happening rather than reflecting. This might look something like replacing the line “I saw this dream shatter, as I was tasked with watching my baby sister after school until 5:30 due to my mom’s struggles with her birth” with “Instead of bursting into song and dance at the drop of a hat, however, every day after school I found myself cleaning mushy peas off the floor, dozing off during educational TV shows, and trying anything to keep my baby sister from kicking her socks off.”

The part of this essay that needs the most attention, however, is the last paragraph. As it’s written, the student is telling us in a general sense that this experience was good for them: “ This period in life showed me the importance mindsets hold…Now when things are not going to plan, I take on the challenge of remaining positive with a smile. ” 

While this is a valuable realization, it also comes across as generic, as many people have this realization at some point in their lives. In this kind of essay, it’s okay to have your big takeaway be something familiar, since lots of teenagers learn similar lessons as they’re growing up. But to keep your essay from sounding like a Hallmark card, you want to include enough details that your reader can concretely see how this lesson has impacted your life. The writer could have accomplished this by reworking the last paragraph to something like:

“I’d always considered myself pessimistic, but suddenly I found myself smiling even on my worst days. I replaced counting down the minutes left watching my sister with a giggle-infused countdown that ended in “Ready or not, here I come!” My boredom-induced pencil doodles gave way to an invite-only sisters coloring club with glitter gel pens. Maybe my experience doesn’t look like High School Musical, but with a positive outlook, I’ve enjoyed myself just as much as Troy and Gabriella. ”

Essay Example #2 – Perseverance

Content warning: This essay includes graphic depictions of mental health struggles. If this topic is triggering for you, please read with caution. If you’re thinking about covering similar topics in your essay, we recommend reading our post Should You Talk About Mental Health in College Essays?

For the past two years, I’ve been more familiar with toilet bowls than dinner bowls.

Given my lengthy hours vomiting in the bathroom weekly, seeing liquid reiterations of each meal is commonplace. When people discuss mental health, they neglect to mention its physical manifestations.

It starts with an intense stomach ache that cements me to the bed. Then, the dry heaving ensues. For the rest of the day, I alternate between the bedroom and the bathroom as I endure body pains, fevers, and chills that persist even after I’ve finished vomiting. Major Depressive Disorder is more than a mental illness— it’s a physical issue that has affected my attendance for years.

However, despite my class absences, I’ve managed to juggle health, extracurriculars, and grades. From staying after school to complete make-up tests, to receiving study guides and class agendas from friends, diligence and community are the key ingredients of perseverance. At first, adapting to my limitations was difficult, but today, I work with my condition, not against it. When I launched a POC writers space for marginalized creatives and took on heavy social justice work, I learned setting time boundaries and honoring my own needs was necessary for my health.

At UMiami, my approach to adversity will thrive. Whether my Public Affairs Internship is too demanding, or my slam competition with Speak What You Feel is anxiety-inducing, I’ll remember to prioritize my mental health so my academic commitments don’t suffer.

Most importantly, I hope UMiami’s toilet bowls are decent.

This essay is incredibly well-written. While their graphic descriptions of their struggles may initially be jarring for some people, their detailed imagery is what allows this student to elicit such a visceral reaction from their readers. 

For example, the image of being “ more familiar with toilet bowls than dinner bowls ” is a shocking way to start an essay, but the reader can’t help but immediately be invested. Although we might not like the thought of “ liquid reiterations ” of food, the creative phrasing paints a crystal clear picture in our heads, and that clarity helps us feel like we’re right beside the writer, rather than watching her struggle from a distance.

The student’s descriptions of the physical manifestations of their mental illness, including, “ an intense stomach ache that cements me to the bed ,” “ the dry heaving ensue s,” and “ I alternate between the bedroom and the bathroom ” continue to build our sympathy towards them, as these lines are described so well that we feel like we’re experiencing some of their pain ourselves.

However, this essay’s strength isn’t just in the imagery. This student also provides details that show us how they have overcome their challenge. For example, the line “ From staying after school to complete make-up tests, to receiving study guides and class agendas from friends, diligence and community are the key ingredients of perseverance” shows the student can weather a storm, which is exactly what admissions officers want to see in your response to this kind of prompt.

They also show us how they were able to “ [launch] a POC writers space for marginalized creatives and [take] on heavy social justice work ” by “ setting time boundaries and honoring my own needs. ” This sentence shows that they have not only persevered through their struggles, but actually used the lessons they learned as motivation in other areas of their life.

Another positive aspect of this essay is how the student ties in UMiami in the second to last paragraph. Just because you aren’t writing a “Why School?” essay doesn’t mean you can’t talk about resources at the college that align with your interests—in fact, colleges will be even more impressed if you weave school opportunities into a different essay topic.

That being said, you don’t want the connection to the school to feel forced, so if you aren’t able to figure out how to do it in a way that’s natural, it’s completely fine to just focus on responding to the prompt you actually have.

Finally, the ending is a nice tie back to the opening of the essay, which reminds the reader one last time about the challenges this student has had to overcome. Bringing back the image of a toilet bowl might be a bit of a shock, but it ensures that this essay is memorable.

While this essay doesn’t necessarily need to change anything, one thing to keep in mind is how to approach difficult or possibly triggering topics in a college essay. Although, on the whole, this essay handles the topic of mental health with tact, you never know who your reader is and what perspective they are bringing to the table. It’s important to not be excessive with your depictions of mental health, and to make sure the focus is primarily on how your illness has impacted your personal growth.

Where to Get Feedback on Your Essay

Do you want feedback on your University of Miami 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 Miami Supplemental Essays 2023-24

Wondering how to write your University of Miami supplemental essays? For many students, writing the University of Miami essays can feel like a daunting task. Luckily, CollegeAdvisor has the expertise and resources to help you write a standout University of Miami essay.

The University of Miami is a private college located in Miami, Florida. Indeed, UMiami is one of the top colleges in Florida . To get in, you’ll need to write strong UMiami supplemental essays. 

In this article, we’ll discuss which University of Miami essays are required to apply, as well as tips for how to write a standout University of Miami essay. By the end, you’ll have all the resources you need to write winning University of Miami supplemental essays.

UMiami Supplemental Essays: Quick Facts

Umiami supplemental essays quick facts.

• University of Miami Acceptance Rate:  27%–  U.S. News  ranks University of Miami as a  most selective  school. 
• 1 (250 word) essay
• UMiami Application:  Students must submit their University of Miami application through the  Common Application . Make sure to have all of your University of Miami supplemental essays and other  required application materials  ready when applying. 
• Early Decision I and Early Action: November 1
• Early Decision II and Regular Decision: January 1
• University of Miami Essay Tip:  Since there is only one University of Miami supplemental essay to complete, answer as thoughtfully and authentically as you can.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website.

Does University of Miami have supplemental essays?

Yes, the University of Miami has one supplemental essay. The UMiami supplemental essays seek to gather more information about you and how your experiences or interests fit with the school’s resources and culture.

The University of Miami supplemental essays focus on community. Indeed, UMiami prides itself on its diverse campus. Located in Miami, UMiami’s student body reflects the diversity of the city it calls home. In fact, more than half of its student body identify as students of color. Additionally, nearly half of students speak a second language. Furthermore, more than two-thirds of students come from out-of-state. As we can see, UMiami attracts students from all different walks of life.

So, how does one write the University of Miami supplemental essays? We’ll share the University of Miami essay prompts and how to address them later. But first, we’ll explore how the UMiami supplemental essays fit within the broader admissions process.

University of Miami Requirements

The University of Miami, like many competitive schools, uses a holistic admissions process to build its incoming class. But what, you might wonder, is a holistic admissions process?

A holistic admissions process takes every factor into account when evaluating a student’s application. This kind of process does not simply rely on academic achievement.  Instead, the process seeks to evaluate who you are as a whole student. 

This means that the University of Miami supplemental essays form a critical piece of your application. They offer a fuller picture of your personality, strengths, and experiences. So, pay attention to the University of Miami essay prompts, as they can make a major difference in the admissions process. 

Additionally, a holistic admissions process seeks to build an incoming class composed of students from different backgrounds. When reading UMiami supplemental essays, the admissions team aims to ensure that their students will collectively represent a cross-section of society. In this, each student adds to the strength of an incoming class through their own unique lived experiences. 

Understanding the UMiami requirements

The University of Miami requirements are multifold. To apply, you will need to submit a completed Common Application, your high school transcripts, a school report completed by your counselor, a letter of recommendation, a personal statement (Common App essay), and your University of Miami supplemental essays. 

Many students wonder how SAT or ACT scores factor into admissions decisions. The University of Miami is still test-optional as of 2023-24, meaning that students can opt to not submit test scores. However, this does not mean the University of Miami admissions is becoming less selective. On the contrary, the University of Miami acceptance rate has declined in recent years. In fact, choosing not to submit test scores means that other factors—like your University of Miami supplemental essays—may weigh more heavily in your application review. So, strong University of Miami supplemental essays can make a major difference in the admissions process. 

University of Miami Personal Statement

In addition to writing your University of Miami supplemental essays, you’ll submit a personal statement . A personal statement is a more general introduction to who you are. On the Common Application, which you will use to apply to the University of Miami, there are seven essay topics. You’ll choose one of these prompts for your personal statement. Additionally, note that the word limit for this essay is 650 words. 

We recommend choosing a personal statement prompt before writing your University of Miami supplemental essays, since you should not repeat ideas in both essays. In addition, since your personal statement goes to all the schools you apply to using the Common App, make sure to choose a topic that showcases core parts of your personal brand .

Choosing a personal statement prompt

You might be wondering, how do I select an essay prompt? The key is to choose a topic that you feel passionate about. So, look at each of the Common App prompts. Which ones connect with a story you have that reflects a key part of your identity? Moreover, how can you use these prompts to showcase who you are and what makes you unique?

If you are passionate about the topic, you’ll write a compelling essay. Additionally, don’t be afraid to try your hand at multiple prompts. Sometimes, you need to redraft an essay multiple times in order to find the right topic. Check out these sample essays to see how other students approached writing their personal statements.

Once you have any idea of what to write about in your Common Application personal statement, you can think more specifically about your University of Miami essay. Overall, your University of Miami essay should highlight a different part of your identity than your Common App essay. So, look for things UMiami should know about you that don’t come through in the rest of your application. 

University of Miami Essay: Community Essay

The University of Miami supplemental essays include just one 250-word essay—the diverse community essay. This type of essay seeks to understand what makes you a unique and diverse candidate. You might recognize this kind of essay prompt from other schools. 

Here is the prompt for the diverse community essay:

Community Essay Prompt

Located within one of the most dynamic cities in the world, the university of miami is a distinctive community with a variety of cultures, traditions, histories, languages, and backgrounds. the university of miami is a values-based and purpose-driven postsecondary institution that embraces diversity and inclusivity in all its forms and strives to create a culture of belonging, where every person feels valued and has an opportunity to contribute., please describe how your unique experiences, challenges overcome, or skills acquired would contribute to our distinctive university community., umiami supplemental essays – understanding the prompt.

With this prompt, we see how the University of Miami supplemental essays aim to determine not only what makes you unique, but how your life experiences will add to UMiami’s diverse community. The prompt itself also highlights what kind of community UMiami seeks to cultivate. So, strong UMiami supplemental essays will clearly address how a student will contribute to UMiami’s diverse campus culture. 

Indeed, as a UMiami student, you’ll be exposed to students from all walks of life and be encouraged to value and respect your peers’ experiences. So, writing your UMiami supplemental essays can allow you to reflect on whether the school is a good fit for you.

So, think about how you would benefit from—and contribute to—a diverse campus environment like UMiami. Then, you’ll be ready to approach the University of Miami supplemental essays. In the next section, we’ll talk about how to craft strong University of Miami supplemental essays.

How to write the University of Miami supplemental essays

Writing your University of Miami supplemental essays might seem daunting. However, if you think critically about how to approach the UMiami supplemental essays, you can make the most of your supplements and increase your admissions odds. 

Here are some important steps in writing your UMiami supplemental essays:

1. Reflect upon your identities

The college admissions process is all about reflection. Indeed, reflecting should be the first step in writing your University of Miami supplemental essays. In this essay prompt, UMiami highlights how it values “diversity and inclusivity in all its forms.” So, don’t get stuck on race or ethnicity, even if this is what most people think of when they hear diversity. Also, don’t feel the need to exaggerate experiences or focus on parts of your identity that aren’t meaningful to you.

Instead, think about all the life experiences that have truly shaped you and taught you valuable lessons. For example, maybe you lived in eleven different states as a child. Or perhaps, you had a learning disability when you were starting out in school. Any of these aspects of your experience are valid to highlight in your UMiami supplemental essays—as long as they are important to you.

2. Free-write

Once you have which aspect of your life experience you want to highlight, do a free write. This can help you get used to writing about your experiences. As such, it’s a great way to learn how to approach the University of Miami supplemental essays.

A free-write is when you write for a set amount of time, such as 10 minutes, and don’t stop even if your thoughts feel jumbled or pointless. The purpose of a free-write is to remove the anxiety that comes with trying to find perfect words for your University of Miami supplemental essays.

After your free-write, take a look at what you’ve written. Do any ideas stand out? You don’t need to use any information from your free-write in your UMiami supplemental essays. However, you might still find a useful idea to refine as you begin drafting. 

3. Revise for key ideas

Once you have completed a free-write, review your writing to identify themes you wish to keep. For example, maybe as you moved around as a kid, you realize that you were constantly worried about making new friends. In this case, you may write your UMiami supplemental essays about how to relate to people from different backgrounds. 

Once again, don’t be afraid to write multiple different University of Miami supplemental essays. The more you write about your experiences, the easier it will become. 

4. Highlight examples and details

As you revise your University of Miami supplemental essays, ensure that you use specific examples and details to make your story come to life. We sometimes call this process “showing, not telling.”

For example, instead of saying “I was nervous to start at a new school,” say “I walked into class with my head low, trying to avoid locking eyes with anyone.” This detail shows us, rather than tells us, how you are feeling.

5. Have a takeaway

In the revision process for your UMiami supplemental essays, focus on sharing what you learned from your experience. Indeed, this essay prompt asks how your experiences will help you contribute to the UMiami community.

No matter what you write about, the University of Miami admissions officers want to understand how you’ve grown and changed as a person. Moreover, they want to see how your growth and experiences will allow you to enrich their community. 

Tips to make your UMiami essay stand out

Each year, the University of Miami receives about 48,000 applications. As such, it is critical that your University of Miami essays stand out. 

Here are a few tips to ensure you write intriguing essays :

1. Be honest

The best way to stand out in the admissions process is to be yourself. University of Miami admissions officers can see through inauthentic answers. So, instead of writing UMiami supplemental essays you think admissions officers want to read, be authentic. Think critically about what experiences make you who you are. Then, make sure these experiences shine through in your University of Miami supplemental essays.

2. Find a hook

Make sure to have a compelling start to your UMiami supplemental essays. For your University of Miami supplemental essays, a hook can take many forms. For instance, you might place the reader in the middle of a story, or you might include a surprising thought upon which the rest of your essay expands. 

3. Edit for clarity and grammar

Since the University of Miami acceptance rate is low, you’ll need to demonstrate strong writing skills to stand out. As such, always have at least one to two trusted people read your essay to help you fix grammatical errors and refine your ideas. The best UMiami supplemental essays won’t be written overnight, so give yourself plenty of time to edit and redraft. 

When is the University of Miami application due?

There are several UMiami application deadlines . While all of them have the same University of Miami requirements, including the same UMiami supplemental essays, they have different dates . 

The first major decision you’ll want to make when applying to UMiami is whether you wish to apply early. Applying early may increase your odds of admission, as it demonstrates to UMiami that you’re serious about attending the school. Further, you can learn about your admissions status earlier when you apply by one of the two early deadlines. 

There are two ways to apply early to UMiami, both of which have November 1 deadlines:

Early Decision I

Early Decision is a binding application program. By applying Early Decision, you are stating that you will definitely attend UMiami if admitted. While applying Early Decision can increase your odds of admission, it is only recommended if financial aid is not a deciding factor for you in the college process. Indeed, if you are admitted Early Decision, you are bound to accept whatever financial aid the school offers. Since UMiami has an average annual price of $30,742 , you should be comfortable with paying this amount or more when you apply Early Decision to Miami.

Early Action

Early Action is another way to apply early to the University of Miami. Applying EA may not increase your odds of admissions as much as Early Decision. However, it is also not a binding application. In this sense, it is a better option if cost is a major factor in deciding where to attend college.

Choosing an application deadline

There are many reasons why you may not wish to apply early to a college. First, you may not yet be sure whether you want to attend, which makes applying ED difficult. Secondly, you might wish to have more time to work on your University of Miami supplemental essays or boost your GPA by raising your grades in the fall of your senior year. 

If you wish to apply by the regular deadlines for Miami, you have two options. Both application deadlines are January 1:

Early Decision II

Though this deadline is called Early Decision II, it is not actually an early deadline. In fact, you have till January 1 to apply Early Decision II. However, like Early Decision I, your acceptance to UMiami is binding if you apply Early Decision II. But, if UMiami is still your top choice by the time January 1 approaches, you may wish to apply Early Decision II to increase your odds of admission.

Regular Decision

Regular Decision is a standard way of applying that does not confer any of the advantages or restrictions of the early deadlines. However, if UMiami is not a top choice for you, then applying Regular Decision may make the most sense. 

Regardless of which deadline you choose, your application must be clear and compelling. Moreover, it should demonstrate why you are an ideal student for the school to admit. Well-crafted University of Miami supplemental essays form a critical part of any strong application.

University of Miami Supplemental Essays – 5 Takeaways

By now, we hope it’s clear how important your UMiami supplemental essays are in your application.

Here are five key takeaways as you prepare to write your University of Miami supplemental essays:

1. Show your authentic self

Whether you are writing your UMiami supplemental essays or putting together your activities list, showcase what makes you unique. From the University of Miami essay prompts, we can tell that the school values individuality and diversity. Don’t fall into the trap of trying to sound impressive, as this will hinder the authenticity of your application. Instead, be honest about why you belong at UMiami. 

2. Learn about the school

Before you write your UMiami supplemental essays, ensure that you know a lot about the institution. This will help you craft an application that showcases how your strengths align with UMiami’s offerings. Visit the school, follow their social media, and read the University blog to stay on top of admissions news .

3. Develop an application strategy

As you prepare your application to UMiami, you must decide whether applying early to the school makes sense. If you truly wish to attend this well-regarded school, you’ll want to take whatever steps are possible to increase your odds of admission. Still, be sure that you’ve considered financial aid implications if you decide to apply early. In addition, your application strategy should include developing a personal brand, writing strong UMiami supplemental essays, and getting recommendation letters that highlight your academic and personal strengths.

4. Start early

Even if you don’t apply early to UMiami, you should start preparing for the application process well before the deadline. The earlier you start, the better. With more time, you’ll be able to do deeper research, spend longer on your UMiami supplemental essays, and reach out to the admissions office if you have questions. 

5. Get help

While the college admissions process can be overwhelming, you’re never alone. Consider all the people in your community who can help you, from family and friends to teachers and guidance counselors. If you want personalized support, our team at CollegeAdvisor.com is here to help. Our experts will guide you through every aspect of the admissions process, from completing the Common App to crafting your UMiami supplemental essays to applying for scholarships.

In this article, we reviewed how to write your University of Miami supplemental essays. We took you through the University of Miami essay prompts and offered tips for making your University of Miami essay stand out. With thoughtful reflection and careful writing, you’ll surely put together a University of Miami essay that stands out from the rest. Good luck!

This essay guide was written by Senior Advisor Courtney Ng . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

Personalized and effective college advising for high school students.

• Advisor Application
• Popular Colleges
• Privacy Policy and Cookie Notice
• Student Login
• California Privacy Notice
• Terms and Conditions
• Your Privacy Choices

By using the College Advisor site and/or working with College Advisor, you agree to our updated Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy , including an arbitration clause that covers any disputes relating to our policies and your use of our products and services.

Guide to the University of Miami’s Supplemental Essay Prompt

The University of Miami asks applicants to respond to one supplemental essay prompt in 250 words or less (full text below). CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to share some tips and tricks for differentiating your response.

Supplemental Essays 101

How to Write College Admissions Diversity Essays Regardless of Your Background

With the Supreme Court ruling on Affirmative Action came an avalanche of diversity essays meant to compensate for a missing tool that aimed to level the playing field. We here at CEA have celebrated the preponderance of opportunities to address race, gender, and other identity-oriented details on the application. We have also found that these prompts can be flummoxing for some students. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to provide guidance to applicants who feel like they don't have an obvious "diversity" story to tell.

How to Write the Vanderbilt Supplemental Essays

Vanderbilt asks 2023-24 applicants to respond to one of two prompts in 250 words or fewer. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through drafting a distinct essay response.

Guide to the Worcester Polytechnic Institute Supplemental Essay Prompt

Worcester Polytechnic Institute seeks students who are the right fit for its academic and campus community. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to help you make your case as to why you're the perfect fit for WPI (and vice versa)!

The University of Miami asks applicants to respond to one supplemental essay prompt in 250 words or less (full text below). CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to share some tips and tricks for differentiating your response.

Guide to the American University’s Supplemental Essay Prompt

American University asks applicants to respond to the following prompt, "Why are you interested in American University?" in 150 words or less. With such few words at your disposal, you'll want to be succinct as possible. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, has some tips to help you get started on a distinct response.

Guide to the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Supplemental Essay Prompt

Admissions wants to know just what appeals to you about the University of Wisconsin-Madison. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to lend tips and tricks for writing a winning supplemental essay for your Wisconsin-Madison application.

How to Respond to Wake Forest’s 150-Word “How Did You Become Interested in WFU?” Essay

CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to give you a jumpstart on your drafted response for Wake Forest's "Why?" essay: "How did you become interested in Wake Forest University? Feel free to tell us about any contact that you had with Wake Forest that was important to you. (150 words)"

How to Approach the 2021-22 Wake Forest Brief Responses (Writing Section)

CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through Wake Forest's 2021-22 Brief Responses, so you can submit a distinct and personal application to WFU.

CEA’s Guide to Yale’s 2021-22 “Intellectual Interest” Essay

CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to break down Yale's 250-word "Intellectual Interest" essay, which reads, "Yale’s extensive course offerings and vibrant conversations beyond the classroom encourage students to follow their developing intellectual interests wherever they lead. Tell us about your engagement with a topic or idea that excites you. Why are you drawn to it?"

How to Write an Artist Statement

Many colleges and universities ask art students to write an artist statement as part of their applications. Writing an Artist Statement can be tricky, especially if you’re applying as an undergraduate.

Guide to the Purdue University Supplemental Essays (2022-23)

Purdue University asks applicants to write three short supplemental essays as part of their admissions application. Founder and Chief Advisor of College Essay Advisors, Stacey Brook, is here to give you invaluable insight into the prompts and the motivation behind them so you can take advantage of this opportunity to speak to admissions in your own voice.

CEA’s Guide to Yale University’s “Short Takes” Supplement Section for the 2021-22 Application Year

CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through Yale University's "Short Takes" supplement section for the 2021-22 application season. It's time to brainstorm!

How to Respond to Yale University’s “Why Yale?” Supplement Section in 100 Words or Fewer

CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through the 2021-22 Yale University "Why Yale?" supplement section, so you can infuse your response with specificity while demonstrating fit.

CEA’s Guide to the 2021-22 Georgetown University Essay Prompts

Georgetown University asks applicants to submit four (4) essays in their undergraduate admission application. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through each of Georgetown's 2021-22 prompts, so you can draft with confidence.

CEA’s Guide to the University of Chicago’s 2021-22 Supplemental Essay Prompts

CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through the 2021-22 University of Chicago supplemental essays, so you can better understand what admissions is looking for in your response.

CEA’s Guide to the 2021-22 Colgate University Supplemental Essays (and List!)

CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through the 2021-22 Colgate University supplemental essays, so you can draft winning responses.

CEA’s Guide to the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business Portfolio Submission

Preferred Admission applicants to the University of Michigan's Stephen M. Ross School of Business will complete a portfolio. This portfolio is in addition to the materials you submit with your Common Application or Coalition Application.

CEA’s Guide to the 2021-22 Boston College Supplemental Essay Prompts

Boston College asks students to select one prompt (out of five) to respond to in 400 words or less (prompts below). So what will you write about? Philosophy, racial injustice, conversation partners, introspection, or your favorite book? CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to give you all the information you need to select a prompt and write an amazing supplemental essay.

CEA’s Guide to the 2021-22 Dartmouth College Supplemental Essays

Dartmouth College is one of the most competitive schools in the country, and every year admissions officers are faced with countless applications from eager students looking to make the cut. Dartmouth's supplemental essay prompts are an opportunity for applicants to distinguish themselves from their peers. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to break down the seven Dartmouth College supplemental essay prompts, so you can draft your responses with confidence.

4 Types of Essay Prompts to Expect from Military Academy Applications

Whether you’re applying to the United States Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Coast Guard Academy, Merchant Marine Academy, or West Point Military Academy, you can anticipate penning responses to these four types of essay prompts. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through the four most common Military application essay categories!

How to Respond to College Essay Prompts About Diversity and Inclusivity

Many colleges and universities have started asking applicants to respond to prompts that ask them about their experiences with diversity, inclusion, and equity. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through the popular new supplemental essay prompt.

Guide to the 2020-21 University of Southern California (USC) Essays | CEA

So, we just have to say it: the USC application is kind of all over the place! You’ll be asked about everything from your academic interests to your life's theme song, so make sure to tighten the straps on your brainstorming helmet. Our Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to show you how to use every essay as an opportunity to showcase something different about yourself!

Guide to the 2020-21 University of California Essays | CEA

For the UC application, the rules may be unfamiliar but the game is the same: tell admissions something they don’t know, and then do it three more times! A strategic applicant will choose an amalgam of prompts that highlight vastly different aspects of their life and personality, leaving an admissions officer with a deep and complete picture of who they are. Our Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to help you avoid getting hung up on trying to find the questions admissions "wants" you to answer -- with each essay, your goal isn’t just to answer the question, but to tell a very short story about yourself!

Guide to the 2020-21 Georgetown University Essays | CEA

Since it's not on the Common App, Georgetown requires some extra special attention when it comes to its supplemental essay requirements! Luckily, our Founder and Chief Advisor Stacey Brook is here to give you invaluable insight into the prompts and discuss the motivation behind them. Take advantage of this opportunity to speak to admissions in your own voice!

Guide to the 2020-21 Harvard University Supplemental Essays | CEA

Harvard University is one of the most competitive schools in the country, and every year admissions officers are faced with countless applications from eager students looking to make the cut. As a result, Harvard's supplemental essay prompts are diverse and complex, to allow students an opportunity to distinguish themselves from their peers. If you're feeling overwhelmed, fear not! CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to break down the Harvard essays so you can hit submit with confidence.

Guide to the 2020-21 Stanford University Essays | CEA

The Stanford University application is nothing short of a doozie -- no less than EIGHT essays of varying lengths for students to answer and submit! To help you tackle this beast, our Founder and Chief Advisor Stacey Brook has created this video guide to walk you through each of the prompts, and give you the tips and tricks you need to make an impression on admissions.

Guide to the 2020-21 Boston University Essays | CEA

The Boston University essay requirements are a gift to students: two of the most straightforward prompts you could ask for, and only one of them is required! Of course, our Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, doesn't believe that any essay is truly optional, so make sure you're taking advantage of every opportunity you have to speak to admissions in your own voice. Plan ahead, pay attention to the questions, and above all don't wait until the last minute to start your work!

Guide to the 2020-21 University of Michigan Essays | CEA

We know that submitting your application to the University of Michigan can cause some serious stress. Thankfully, this year Michigan only requires two supplemental essays instead of three! Our Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to give you invaluable insight into the prompts and provide you with tips and tricks to help you showcase yourself to admissions using your own unique voice.

Guide to the 2020-21 New York University Supplemental Essay | CEA

New York University (NYU) asks undergraduate applicants to write one supplemental essay (prompt in description below) on top of their Common App personal statement. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to tell you everything you need to know in order to craft a winning response!

Guide to the 2020-21 Brown University Supplemental Essays | CEA

Applying to an Ivy League institution, such as Brown University, can be incredibly stressful! Luckily for you, CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to walk you through Brown's four (4) supplemental essay prompts.

Are “Optional” College Essay Prompts Really Optional?

Every year, colleges and universities around the world offer applicants the opportunity to respond to "optional" supplemental essay questions...But are these prompts truly optional? CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, lets you in on a college admissions secret.

The Expert’s Guide to Finding Sneaky Supplemental Essays

There's probably a section of the Common Application that says "Writing", in which all of the supplemental essays live, right? WRONG! Supplements can be found in a variety of places and can sneak up on students who have spent months preparing to submit their applications. Don't let that be you! This video will detail the several different places where you can find supplemental essays.

How to Write Vanderbilt University’s “Extracurricular Activities” Essay

Vanderbilt University's supplement consists of one prompt (text below). CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to help you take full advantage of this opportunity to illuminate your leadership skills or personal values for admissions.

The College Application ‘Activity’ and ‘Community’ Essays: What You Need to Know

Want the key to writing the most important and pervasive school-specific supplemental essays? We've got the tips and tricks you need to conquer the ever-popular "Activity" and "Community" supplements so you can showcase for admissions how you spend your time, where you feel like you belong and what truly motivates you to action. Assigned by schools like Harvard, Stanford, The University of Michigan and so many more, mastering these supplemental essays will ensure you utilize every opportunity a school's application provides to showcase your strengths.

What is a Supplemental Essay?

Most supplemental essay prompts are designed to both gauge a student’s interest and determine where a student might fit into a school’s particular community. Typically, these essays focus more specifically on future academic and professional goals, school-related activities and a student's role in your current community than the Common App's personal statement. Watch this video for a short and sweet introduction to supplemental essays. Know what you're up against!

How to Write a Powerful “Why Do You Want to Go Here?” Essay (The Why Essay)

The Why Essay takes on many forms and can ask many questions: What will you do when you get here? How will you take advantage of all the resources our school has to offer? How will the school support your academic or professional goals? How do your past experiences or future goals support these claims? It’s likely that many schools to which you apply will as the Why question in slightly different ways (and with a WIDE range of word limits). This video will teach you everything you need to know about how to respond to the "Why do you want to go here?" essay.

How to Respond to Quirky, Odd, and Bizarre College Essay Prompts

There are certain schools, like the University of Chicago, who have always taken special pride in developing crafty questions for their applicants to answer. In recent years, more schools are jumping on the bandwagon, luring students to their applications with questions like “What does #YOLO mean to you” (Tufts, 2013). This is both fun and exhausting for applicants who are grateful for an injection of modern, quirky inspiration, but whose creative wells may be running dry. This video will get down to the bottom line: Why are schools asking these questions and what are they looking for in applicants' responses?

How to Gain Acceptance to Boston University (with Winning Supplemental Essays)!

The Boston University application supplement is a gift: two of the most straightforward prompts you could ask for, and only one of them is required [full prompts below]. But beware, a simple supplement is no reason to ignore a school or save it until the last minute. In fact, it means you have no excuse not to nail your essay, so pay attention and do your work!

How to Write the “Why NYU?” Essay

New York University (NYU) asks undergraduate applicants to pen one supplemental essay (prompt below) in addition to the personal statement. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to tell you everything you need to know in order to draft a compelling response.

How to Gain Acceptance to Boston College (with a Winning Supplemental Essay)!

Boston College asks students to select one prompt (out of four) to respond to in 400 words or less (prompts below). So what will you write about? Art, community, a contemporary problem, or character formation? CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to give you all the information you need to select a prompt and write an amazing supplemental essay.

How to Write Fantastic Application Essays for the University of Georgia

The University of Georgia asks students to write two application essays of 200-300 words. The first prompt is set in stone, and for the second essay, applicants can choose one of four prompts to respond to [prompts below]. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to tell you everything you need to know about choosing and responding to these prompts for UGA. Let's begin!

How to Write Short Answers and the Additional Info Essay

The challenge of short answer questions lies half in generating honest, unique and clever ideas, and the other in being concise. The purpose of additional info essays is to provide admissions with an explanation for a drop in grades, low test scores, or prolonged absences. Both of these essay types need to be handled with care -- and that's exactly what this video will show you how to do.

How to Get Into University of Texas: Austin (with Great Application Essays!)

The University of Texas: Austin application is a beast unto itself, with a slew of essay prompts (full text below) that ask you to dig into all aspects of your life. From your home life to your future plans, you're going to have to tell all -- and in a way that sets you apart! Luckily CEA's Founder, Stacey Brook, is here to break down the prompts so you're ready to tackle anything Texas' independent platform throws at you.

How to Get Into Emory University (With Amazing Supplemental Essays!)

Emory University asks first-year applicants to write two (2) essays in addition to the personal statement. Applicants must choose one prompt from the "Reflections" category and one prompt from the "Tell us about you" category. CEA's Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to tell you everything you need to know about choosing and responding to these prompts. Let's begin!

How To Answer Supplemental Application Questions: “Why Do You Want To Go Here?”

These days, most colleges and universities require supplemental applications in addition to the Common Application. You could be looking at a list of 10+ supplemental essays, so we made you a quick guide to the most common supplemental question: "Why do you want to go here?"

Guide to the 2018-19 Northwestern University Supplemental Essay

Are you planning to apply to Northwestern University? The Founder and Chief Advisor of College Essay Advisors, Stacey Brook, is here to give you invaluable insight into Northwestern's supplemental essay prompt so you can take advantage of this opportunity to speak to admissions in your own voice.

Guide to the 2018-19 University of Michigan Essays

Submitting your college application to the University of Michigan can be a real nail-biter. Michigan requires three supplemental essays. The Founder and Chief Advisor of College Essay Advisors, Stacey Brook, is here to give you invaluable insight into the prompts and the motivation behind them so you can take advantage of this opportunity to speak to admissions in your own voice.

How to Get Into UNC (With a Great Essay)

UNC is well-known for being the first public university in the United States and a leader in innovative teaching strategies. The school is also known for receiving many college applications, which means it is crucial for applicants to differentiate themselves in their essays. Luckily for UNC hopefuls, the university gives students two additional supplemental prompts to respond to in order to set themselves apart from the sea of similarly qualified applicants and increase their chances of getting into UNC. College Essay Advisors Founder and Chief Advisor, Stacey Brook, is here to break down the UNC supplemental prompts so you know which essays will showcase your best attributes!

Guide to the 2017-2018 Duke University Supplemental Essays

Submitting your college application to Duke University can be a real nail-biter. Although it's probably too late now to tweak your test scores or GPA, you can make sure that your college application essays will bring you admissions success! Duke requires one supplemental short answer and gives students the opportunity to respond to two optional prompts. The Founder and Chief Advisor of College Essay Advisors, Stacey Brook, is here to give you invaluable insight into the prompts and the motivation behind them so you can take advantage of this opportunity to speak to admissions in your own voice.

Guide to the 2017-2018 Harvard University Supplemental Essay

Harvard University is one of the most competitive schools in the country. Every year admissions officers are bombarded with applications from eager students looking to make the cut. Thus, Harvard has a supplement to give students an opportunity to distinguish themselves from the competition. Writing supplemental essays can be daunting, but luckily for you, College Essay Advisors founder (and admissions expert) Stacey Brook is here to break down the Harvard supplement so you can hit submit with confidence.

• Our Approach & Team
• Undergraduate Testimonials
• Postgraduate Testimonials
• Where Our Students Get In
• CEA Gives Back
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Private School Admissions
• International Student Admissions
• Common App Essay Guide
• Supplemental Essay Guides
• Coalition App Guide
• The CEA Podcast
• YouTube Tutorials
• Admissions Stats
• Notification Trackers
• Deadline Databases
• College Essay Examples
• Academy and Worksheets
• Waitlist Guides
• Get Started

University of Miami Undergraduate College Application Essays

These University of Miami college application essays were written by students accepted at University of Miami. All of our sample college essays include the question prompt and the year written. Please use these sample admission essays responsibly.

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2355 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11005 literature essays, 2762 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

• Browse College Application Essays
• Undergraduate

College Application Essays accepted by University of Miami

Creativity from tragedy dylan w, university of miami.

I remember sobbing with my face pressed against the wooden swing set in my backyard while my parents yelled at each other on the patio. I remember playing with my toys in my room only to go hide in the darkness of my closet because my parents were...

A loss that has changed me for the better Anonymous

I always looked forward to June 17, the birthday of my only living grandparent. Every year I spent the day composing corny jokes that made her to snort with laughter and murmur loving approval. But in 2002, in a matter of seconds, my associations...

A Journey Through Perdition Hilary Jewel Lange

I stood on the ground where millions of innocent people perished. I walked into a gas chamber, and I walked out. I saw the scratch marks on the walls where people were clawing their way to the top, trying to get one last gasp of oxygen as the...

New People, New Dreams Amanda Grewer

“I think we’re lost,” I said to my parents as I stood on the corner of 114th Street and Broadway carrying a large bag of luggage. I stopped confused as to where I was going. I knew I was close; I could tell by the number of people wearing Columbia...

Summer Business Jake Nolan

I stepped out of the train. People pushing and shoving, back and forth, loud noises echoing down the narrow walls into the abyss. Searching for a way to the street, I too pushed my way through the barrage of people searching for the streets above:...

More Motivated Than Ever Anonymous

I sometimes daydream about how my life would have been if I led the carefree life of the average teenager. Then I snap back into reality, realizing that life is never average. There are always obstacles to overcome. My transition into high school,...

Young Entrepreneur Michael Magnotto

Throughout my younger years, wearing a blazer, collared shirt, and nice pants to preschool always set me apart from my classmates. As I got older, selling pencils to kids who needed them right before a test sparked my business interest. That...

Walking the Simple Pathway Anjali Pati

I had thought of living in simplicity and happiness before, but I never understood its significance until I heard this sentence. “I will not allow you to come to my house. I am poor.” I stared and looked at him as my eyes filled with tears,...

Religious Diversity Anonymous

For the past three years, I have been the diversity. Seventy-five percent of the students around me share in the Roman Catholic faith, while I am a devout Presbyterian. However, attending a Catholic school has not diverted me from my Presbyterian...

What I Learned from My Mom Anonymous

Hair a mess, eyelids heavy, and bags under her eyes: every day I would see my mom come home, looking like this, tired from a day’s load of work. My mother, who had me at a young age, was forced to raise and support me all on her own. Where was my...

4'11 Forever Anonymous

When my mom gave birth to me, I weighed in at nine and a half pounds and measured twenty-two inches. One could say I was pretty big for a newborn, but whenever I tell this story, it is soon followed by a: “And that’s pretty much when I stopped...

I Am My Own Life Coach Ecem Karaman

I've always been my own life coach. Some people are born to be “lucky,” but others have to create that “luck” by themselves. Having had to fight obesity at the age of 6 was the first and the biggest challenge that life ever put me through. The...

All for Freedom Melanie Delgado

It was Valentine’s Day six years ago. There were no roses, chocolate, or any romanticism in the air; there was instead, the scent of puke, fear, sea spray, yet a trace of freedom. It is mind-boggling what a human being is capable of enduring for...

The Life of Church Music Brandon J. Morgan

"See you on Sunday, Brandon," Pastor Park says. After gathering my things, I shake his hand appreciatively and leave through the exit at side of the sanctuary. The pastor closes the broad, brown doors as best as he can, but they never quite meet...

Moving Forward Felipe Parodi

As the new student in my sixth grade English class, I was asked where I was from. "Where is your home?" a classmate inquired. As I opened my mouth to answer, I was struck by the sudden realization that there was no particular place that I was able...

My life-changing Pursuit Taylor Haley Starr

I sat across the room, watching my father in awe as he typed out a document with mind-blowing speed. I had no idea precisely what I was watching him do, of course, since I was only six years old, but still -- Wow. How can someone move his fingers...

Home Away From Home Laith Nasfat Shehadeh

For many of my friends, summer break means swimming at the local pool and hanging out at our downtown movie theater. Yet for me, summer means traveling 6,000 miles to a completely different country, where I speak a completely different language...

Bus Rides Grace Redford

Every bus ride is marked with either utter serenity or galling racket. At eight years old, I found both equally unbearable. "The world," my mother would often say, "isn't always going to be the way you want it to be." Innumerable repetitions of...

My Introduction to Programming. Anonymous

Whenever my grandparents visit, they take me to Barnes & Noble. My grandmother, Shasha, a strong believer in self-education through voracious reading, passed on that trait to me. On this particular trip, I spied the book “C++ for Dummies”. I...

Brace Yourself. Alexa Miller

I walk to the waiting area and call, “Michelle,” and she follows me into a big room with three beige, reclining leather chairs. “Have a seat,” I urge, directing her as if I’m a hostess. “Are you ready?” She nods her head; her shoulders tense up,...

What impact do you want to make in the world? Select a problem or social issue and explain why it is important to you. What do you need to learn to contribute toward its solution? Anonymous

Regardless of where you come from, police brutality is currently the hot topic in media. With countless accusations of police using excessive force making the headlines, it has generated unfavorable views against those in law enforcement. Race is...

Battle Scars Anonymous

Of all markings that can grace the human body -- above moles, freckles, or even tattoos -- scars hold the most meaningful anecdotes. They display proudly won battles and mistakes on the individual who bears them. I have a few scars myself, the...

Master of Answers Anonymous

My dad taught me my first science lesson. He knew it did not have to start at school, but rather the minute a mind starts asking questions. That is what science has always consisted of—a curiosity forming into a question and a question being...

Ibiza Gabriel Roig-Francoli

The four of us sit still for a full minute, too humbled to move or to speak. My hand finds its way to the door handle and I cringe as the car opens with a low clunk, interrupting the total silence. I walk to the edge of the lookout to survey the...

Recent Questions about University of Miami

The Question and Answer section for University of Miami is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

The conclusion of the Declaration of Independence states that

I'd go with "The United States is free" as the essential point.

“These united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown.”?

What does the conclusion of the declaration of independence state?

I think it talks about independent states having autonomy to make agreements with foreign nations. It says that God will protect them in their desire to establish a just government. The citizens of each colony have pledged their fidelity and lives...

What was Jefferson's opinion about changing long-established governments?

Straight from the source; you don't change long established

governments without good cause and much thought.

"Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and...

First-Year Student Application Requirements

Thank you for considering Miami University as you prepare to embark on one of the most exciting and important times of your life — your college experience. We are here to help you at every step in your journey through the admission process.

Everything You Need to Know

Start your application.

To apply as a first-year college student, you will need:

• The Common Application or The Coalition Application
• High school transcripts (can be unofficial at the time of application).
• Select "Miami Fee Waiver" on the application to apply for free by Nov. 1.
• At least one recommendation from a school counselor or academic teacher.
• Optional ACT or SAT test scores.   See our test-optional FAQs .
• Portfolio, audition, or video for some majors in the   College of Creative Arts (CCA) .
• Confirmation of interest in the Miami   Honors College  and Presidential Fellows Program on your admission application.

After You've Applied

Once you have submitted your application, make sure you do the following:

• Applicant emails begin sending in late August, after which new applicants should receive this message within 24 hours.
• Use your Applicant Status Page to monitor your application checklist and other important messages to confirm Miami has received all materials that are required to complete your application.
• On your scheduled admission decision release date, check your status page for a digital copy of your admission decision letter.
• Research   costs, scholarships, and financial aid .

Key Links for First-Year Applicants

Contact admission and aid, undergraduate admission.

301 S. Campus Ave., Oxford, OH 45056-3434 513-529-2531 [email protected] Meet the Staff

Graduate Admission

301 S. Campus Ave., Oxford, OH 45056-3434 513-529-GRAD (4723) [email protected]

Admission Visit Center

381 Maple St., Oxford, OH 45056-3434 513-529-4632 [email protected]

Financial Aid (One Stop)

501 E. High Street Oxford, OH 45056

• Online: Miami Online
• Main Operator 513-529-1809
• Office of Admission 513-529-2531
• Vine Hotline 513-529-6400
• Emergency Info https://miamioh.edu/emergency

1601 University Blvd. Hamilton, OH 45011

• Online: E-Campus
• Main Operator 513-785-3000
• Office of Admission 513-785-3111
• Campus Status Line 513-785-3077
• Emergency Info https://miamioh.edu/regionals/emergency

4200 N. University Blvd. Middletown, OH 45042

• Main Operator 513-727-3200
• Office of Admission 513-727-3216
• Campus Status 513-727-3477

7847 VOA Park Dr. (Corner of VOA Park Dr. and Cox Rd.) West Chester, OH 45069

• Main Operator 513-895-8862
• From Middletown 513-217-8862

Chateau de Differdange 1, Impasse du Chateau, L-4524 Differdange Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

• Main Operator 011-352-582222-1
• Email [email protected]
• Website https://miamioh.edu/luxembourg

217-222 MacMillan Hall 501 E. Spring St. Oxford, OH 45056, USA

• Main Operator 513-529-8600

Initiatives

• Miami THRIVE Strategic Plan
• Miami Rise Strategic Plan
• Boldly Creative
• Annual Report
• Moon Shot for Equity
• Miami and Ohio
• Majors, Minors, and Programs
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Employment Opportunities
• University Safety and Security
• Parking, Directions, and Maps
• Equal Opportunity
• Consumer Information
• Land Acknowledgement
• Privacy Statement
• Title IX Statement
• Report an Accessibility Issue
• Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
• Report a Problem with this Website
• Policy Library

Calculate for all schools

Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, advice on u miami supplemental essays.

Hey guys! I'm currently working on my application for the University of Miami, and I'm struggling with their supplemental essays. Anyone have any advice or tips on how to write a strong supplemental essay for this college? Thanks in advance!

Sure, I'd be happy to help! The University of Miami is known for its strong emphasis on research, community involvement, and experiential learning. To write strong supplemental essays for this college, you should focus on aligning your values and experiences with the university's mission and opportunities.

Here are a few tips to consider:

1. Research the school: Browse the University of Miami's website and learn about the specific programs, clubs, or resources that stand out to you. Mentioning these in your essays signals to the admissions committee that you've done your homework and have a genuine interest in attending the university.

2. Demonstrate your fit: Show how the University of Miami's offerings align with your interests, experiences, and future goals. Make connections between your past experiences and the opportunities available on campus. For example, if you've been involved in environmental initiatives, talk about how you could contribute to the university's sustainability efforts.

3. Share personal anecdotes: Use specific examples and personal experiences to illustrate your points. Doing so will enable you to create a more compelling and memorable essay. For instance, if you've worked on a community service project that impacted you, share that story and explain how it shaped your perspective on the importance of giving back to the community.

4. Stay focused and concise: Each supplemental essay has a word limit, so ensure you answer the prompt thoroughly while staying within that limit. Be concise and focused in your writing, and avoid adding unnecessary fluff or tangential information.

5. Revise and edit: Like any piece of writing, your supplemental essays should go through several revisions before submission. Be meticulous in editing your work for grammar, spelling, clarity, and flow. Ideally, ask someone you trust (such as a teacher or counselor) to review your essay and provide you with feedback.

6. Showcase your personality: Use your own voice and tone throughout your essays, allowing your personality to shine through. The admissions committee is looking to get to know you better through your writing, so be yourself.

Remember, the supplemental essays are an opportunity for you to show the University of Miami why you're a great fit for their community and what you can contribute to their campus. By following these tips and tailoring your essays to the school and your experiences, you should be able to write strong supplemental essays that stand out.

Best of luck with your application!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay

How to Write an Effective Essay

Writing an essay for college admission gives you a chance to use your authentic voice and show your personality. It's an excellent opportunity to personalize your application beyond your academic credentials, and a well-written essay can have a positive influence come decision time.

Want to know how to draft an essay for your college application ? Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing.

Tips for Essay Writing

A typical college application essay, also known as a personal statement, is 400-600 words. Although that may seem short, writing about yourself can be challenging. It's not something you want to rush or put off at the last moment. Think of it as a critical piece of the application process. Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor.

1. Start Early.

Few people write well under pressure. Try to complete your first draft a few weeks before you have to turn it in. Many advisers recommend starting as early as the summer before your senior year in high school. That way, you have ample time to think about the prompt and craft the best personal statement possible.

You don't have to work on your essay every day, but you'll want to give yourself time to revise and edit. You may discover that you want to change your topic or think of a better way to frame it. Either way, the sooner you start, the better.

2. Understand the Prompt and Instructions.

Before you begin the writing process, take time to understand what the college wants from you. The worst thing you can do is skim through the instructions and submit a piece that doesn't even fit the bare minimum requirements or address the essay topic. Look at the prompt, consider the required word count, and note any unique details each school wants.

3. Create a Strong Opener.

Students seeking help for their application essays often have trouble getting things started. It's a challenging writing process. Finding the right words to start can be the hardest part.

Spending more time working on your opener is always a good idea. The opening sentence sets the stage for the rest of your piece. The introductory paragraph is what piques the interest of the reader, and it can immediately set your essay apart from the others.

4. Stay on Topic.

One of the most important things to remember is to keep to the essay topic. If you're applying to 10 or more colleges, it's easy to veer off course with so many application essays.

A common mistake many students make is trying to fit previously written essays into the mold of another college's requirements. This seems like a time-saving way to avoid writing new pieces entirely, but it often backfires. The result is usually a final piece that's generic, unfocused, or confusing. Always write a new essay for every application, no matter how long it takes.

5. Think About Your Response.

Don't try to guess what the admissions officials want to read. Your essay will be easier to write─and more exciting to read─if you’re genuinely enthusiastic about your subject. Here’s an example: If all your friends are writing application essays about covid-19, it may be a good idea to avoid that topic, unless during the pandemic you had a vivid, life-changing experience you're burning to share. Whatever topic you choose, avoid canned responses. Be creative.

6. Focus on You.

Essay prompts typically give you plenty of latitude, but panel members expect you to focus on a subject that is personal (although not overly intimate) and particular to you. Admissions counselors say the best essays help them learn something about the candidate that they would never know from reading the rest of the application.

7. Stay True to Your Voice.

Use your usual vocabulary. Avoid fancy language you wouldn't use in real life. Imagine yourself reading this essay aloud to a classroom full of people who have never met you. Keep a confident tone. Be wary of words and phrases that undercut that tone.

8. Be Specific and Factual.

Capitalize on real-life experiences. Your essay may give you the time and space to explain why a particular achievement meant so much to you. But resist the urge to exaggerate and embellish. Admissions counselors read thousands of essays each year. They can easily spot a fake.

9. Edit and Proofread.

When you finish the final draft, run it through the spell checker on your computer. Then don’t read your essay for a few days. You'll be more apt to spot typos and awkward grammar when you reread it. After that, ask a teacher, parent, or college student (preferably an English or communications major) to give it a quick read. While you're at it, double-check your word count.

Writing essays for college admission can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. A well-crafted essay could be the deciding factor─in your favor. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll have no problem creating memorable pieces for every application.

What is the format of a college application essay?

Generally, essays for college admission follow a simple format that includes an opening paragraph, a lengthier body section, and a closing paragraph. You don't need to include a title, which will only take up extra space. Keep in mind that the exact format can vary from one college application to the next. Read the instructions and prompt for more guidance.

Most online applications will include a text box for your essay. If you're attaching it as a document, however, be sure to use a standard, 12-point font and use 1.5-spaced or double-spaced lines, unless the application specifies different font and spacing.

How do you start an essay?

The goal here is to use an attention grabber. Think of it as a way to reel the reader in and interest an admissions officer in what you have to say. There's no trick on how to start a college application essay. The best way you can approach this task is to flex your creative muscles and think outside the box.

You can start with openers such as relevant quotes, exciting anecdotes, or questions. Either way, the first sentence should be unique and intrigue the reader.

What should an essay include?

Every application essay you write should include details about yourself and past experiences. It's another opportunity to make yourself look like a fantastic applicant. Leverage your experiences. Tell a riveting story that fulfills the prompt.

What shouldn’t be included in an essay?

When writing a college application essay, it's usually best to avoid overly personal details and controversial topics. Although these topics might make for an intriguing essay, they can be tricky to express well. If you’re unsure if a topic is appropriate for your essay, check with your school counselor. An essay for college admission shouldn't include a list of achievements or academic accolades either. Your essay isn’t meant to be a rehashing of information the admissions panel can find elsewhere in your application.

How can you make your essay personal and interesting?

The best way to make your essay interesting is to write about something genuinely important to you. That could be an experience that changed your life or a valuable lesson that had an enormous impact on you. Whatever the case, speak from the heart, and be honest.

Is it OK to discuss mental health in an essay?

Mental health struggles can create challenges you must overcome during your education and could be an opportunity for you to show how you’ve handled challenges and overcome obstacles. If you’re considering writing your essay for college admission on this topic, consider talking to your school counselor or with an English teacher on how to frame the essay.

Related Articles

We value every paper writer working for us, therefore we ask our clients to put funds on their balance as proof of having payment capability. Would be a pity for our writers not to get fair pay. We also want to reassure our clients of receiving a quality paper, thus the funds are released from your balance only when you're 100% satisfied.

How can I be sure you will write my paper, and it is not a scam?

Estelle Gallagher

We use cookies. By browsing the site, you agree to it. Read more »

Bennie Hawra

Customer Reviews

• Accessibility Options:
• Skip to Content
• Skip to Search
• Skip to footer
• Office of Disability Services
• Request Assistance
• 305-284-2374
• High Contrast
• School of Architecture
• College of Arts and Sciences
• Miami Herbert Business School
• School of Communication
• School of Education and Human Development
• College of Engineering
• School of Law
• Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science
• Miller School of Medicine
• Frost School of Music
• School of Nursing and Health Studies
• The Graduate School
• Division of Continuing and International Education
• People Search
• Class Search
• IT Help and Support
• Privacy Statement
• Student Life

University of Miami

• Division of University Communications
• Office of Media Relations
• Miller School of Medicine Communications
• Hurricane Sports
• UM Media Experts
• Emergency Preparedness

Explore Topics

• Latest Headlines
• Arts and Humanities
• People and Community
• All Topics A to Z

Related Links

• Subscribe to Daily Newsletter
• Special Reports
• Social Networks
• Publications
• For the Media
• Find University Experts
• News and Info
• People and Culture
• Benefits and Discounts
• More Life@TheU Topics
• About Life@the U
• Connect and Share
• Contact Life@theU
• Faculty and Staff Events
• Student Events
• TheU Creates (Arts and Culture Events)
• Undergraduate Students: Important Dates and Deadlines
• Submit an Event
• Miami Magazine
• Faculty Affairs
• Student Affairs
• More News Sites

A flight out of this world

By Robert C. Jones Jr. [email protected] 03-22-2024

Rovers have roamed its alien terrain, scooping up rock samples and searching for signs of microbial life in basins once awash with water.

But in the nearly 30 years that NASA has been sending small robotic vehicles to Mars—the space agency’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory has operated five rovers on the red planet since 1997—the probes, inching along at a turtle-like pace, have explored only a small portion of the dusty, cold, desert world. 

Now, a University of Miami College of Engineering researcher has designed a new Mars explorer that will be faster and more advanced than any other that has ever probed the planet. 

GeCheng Zha ’s Mars Aerial Ground and Global Intelligent Explorer, or MAGGIE , is not a land rover at all, but a solar-powered, remote-controlled electric fixed-wing airplane that will soar 3,280 feet in the air, reach a top speed of 135 miles per hour, and take off and land vertically, deploying a suite of sophisticated scientific instruments that could help solve some of the mysteries of Mars. 

Science fiction? Make-believe? Far from it. 

MAGGIE, which would have solar panels mounted atop its 26-foot wingspan, is closer to reality than not. Zha is perfecting electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology that would minimize power consumption by generating lift from the innovative aircraft’s wings and propellers. 

“It’s deflected slipstream technology enabled by a co-flow jet airfoil, and a series of micro-compressors embedded into the wings is the key to its success,” said Zha, a professor of aerospace engineering and director of the Aerodynamics and Computational Fluid Dynamics Lab at the College of Engineering. “Those micro-compressors suck in, pressurize, and then expel air to achieve ultra-high lift with virtually stall-free operation. The micro-compressors also work in tandem with a propulsion system to create thrust.” 

He has tested a prototype of the wing at Virginia-based Advanced Aircraft Company and at NASA.. “It has performed exceptionally well,” said Zha, noting that the wing will help MAGGIE achieve lift far superior to conventional aircraft on Earth. That greater lift coefficient, he explained, will allow the aircraft to overcome the thin atmosphere on Mars as well as its significantly lower gravity, which is one-third that of Earth’s. 

The aircraft wouldn’t fly to Mars, but would hitch a ride aboard a powerful rocket, much like the Perseverance rover rode atop an Atlas rocket that blasted off from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on July 30, 2020. 

Once deployed, MAGGIE would survey the entire landscape of the red planet, traveling more than 100 miles on a full battery charge and landing in certain areas to conduct atmospheric and geophysical experiments. Among its potential scientific missions: a study of the origin of the Martian core dynamo from the weak magnetic fields found in large impact basins, an investigation of the source of methane signals detected in the planet’s Gale crater, and mapping of subsurface water ice in the mid-latitudes, where it has been observed from orbit. 

Ingenuity, a small autonomous helicopter transported to the surface of Mars while attached to the belly of Perseverance, which landed on the red planet nearly seven months after it left Earth, inspired Zha to come up with the idea for MAGGIE. 

The first aircraft to fly on Mars, Ingenuity was originally designed to perform up to five experimental test flights over 30 days. But the little helicopter that could exceeded expectations, making 72 flights over three years and flying more than 14 times farther than planned before a damaged rotor ended its mission.

Ingenuity covered only about 11 miles during its three years of operation. MAGGIE, according to Zha, would cover nearly 10,000 miles over the course of a Martian year—687 days. 

“We still must do a lot more testing, specifically under simulated Mars-like conditions. So, a prototype of a full-scale aircraft is still a long way in the future,” Zha said. 

Phase I funding from the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts Program will allow Zha to continue developing MAGGIE. 

“But our goal is to make history—the first fixed-wing aircraft to fly on the red planet,” the researcher said. “Even though it is more of a concept right now, we’re excited about the aircraft’s potential to expand humanity’s ability to explore Mars.”

• Coral Gables , FL 33124
• 305-284-2211 305-284-2211
• UM News and Events
• Alumni & Friends
• University Hotline

Tools and Resources

• Academic Calendar
• Parking & Transportation
• social-facebook
• social-twitter
• social-youtube
• social-instagram

Copyright: 2024 University of Miami. All Rights Reserved. Emergency Information Privacy Statement & Legal Notices Title IX & Gender Equity Website Feedback

Individuals with disabilities who experience any technology-based barriers accessing the University’s websites or services can visit the Office of Workplace Equity and Inclusion .