Supplemental essays · 2026–27 application
University of Illinois Chicago supplemental essays.
The essay question University of Illinois Chicago asks this year, word for word, with the word limit and how to approach it.
Checked against admissions.uic.edu and the Common App application on October 17, 2026
What you write: One essay, 50–500 words.
Why your program
Please provide an essay that explains why you chose your intended program of study. What interests you the most about this major? Please be specific - those evaluating these essays are highly interested in your response. If Undecided, what areas of study do you look forward to studying in college?
How to approach it
- Start with the moment the interest began.
- Show what you’ve already done about it: a class, a project, a book, a job.
- Say where you want to take it, even if you’re not sure yet.
Want a mentor on your essays?
Clarity Prep members get a mentor who reads every draft with them, knows their whole application and checks in every week until it’s done.