Supplemental essays · 2026–27 application
Dharma Realm Buddhist University supplemental essays.
The essay question Dharma Realm Buddhist University asks this year, word for word, with the word limit and how to approach it.
Checked against drbu.edu and the Common App application on October 17, 2026
What you write: One essay; 150–300 words recommended (box allows 800).
No AI on this essay
DRBU says your essay must be your own words and thoughts: don't use ChatGPT or other AI to produce or edit it. Feedback from people should stay at basic proofreading and critique. That includes AI feedback, so our free review is turned off for these questions.
DRBU's learning environment
Reflect on this learning environment: How might it support you, challenge you, or provide you with opportunities for growth and learning? You may choose to focus on one or two points or speak more broadly.
The prompt first lists what makes DRBU different: a campus shared with a Buddhist monastery and schools, lifestyle guidelines (no meat, alcohol, drugs, tobacco or sexual relations on campus), a rural setting, and contemplative practice as part of the education. DRBU recommends 150–300 words.
How to approach it
- Name things you could only find at this college: a class, a professor, a program, a tradition.
- Tie every detail to something true about you.
- Swap test: if another college’s name fits your sentence, it’s too general.
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