villanova honors essay

The Handbook shows requirements for FIRST-YEAR students. Non-first-year students should see sidebar archive to view the requirements for their class.

Director: Dr. Anna Moreland, Ph.D. Office Location: 111 Garey Hall Telephone: 610-519-4650 [Website]

Admission to the University Honors Program is by invitation only to incoming first-year students. Members of the Program are expected to take Honors courses at least every third semester, and to maintain high academic standards (at least a 3.33 overall GPA). Individual Honors courses are open to all Villanova students who have at least a 3.33 overall GPA, contingent upon class size limitations. 

DEGREE (30 credits)

The honors degree, thesis track (10 honors courses), requirements:.

At least 3 upper level Honors courses, which will include a six-credit HON 6000 and HON 6002 senior thesis; minimum 3.33 GPA. 

Required Courses:

Three Upper-Level Honors Courses

• HON 6000: Thesis Capstone I
• HON 6002: Thesis Capstone 2
• One three-credit course in HON 2000-20049 or one course with the HON attribute between 2051-5999 level.

Seven additional Honors courses

Seven additional courses carrying the HON attribute worth 3 credits each.  

The Honors Degree, Oral Examination Track (10 Honors courses)

An Oral Comprehensive Examination in the senior year integrates three upper-level Honors courses in a primary major or area of academic interest; minimum 3.33 GPA. 

Seven Honors Courses

• Seven courses selected from HON courses between the 1000 and 5999 level or which carry the HON attribute.

HON 6003 Integrative Capstone 1

Honors Minor (5 Honors courses)

Five courses in Honors, at least two of which must be upper level; minimum 3.33 GPA. The Honors Program also offers upper-level seminars that fulfill degree requirements in specific academic disciplines. All courses are small seminars and have in common active class participation, and intensive writing requirements.   

Two Upper-Level Honors Courses

• One 2000-2049 level course with the HON attribute.
• One 2051-5999 level course with the HON attribute.

Three Additional Honors Courses

• Three courses with the HON attribute between 1000-5999 level worth 3 credits each.

Honors Politics, Philosophy, & Economics Minor (18 credits)

An interdisciplinary minor offered through the Honors Program focusing on the intersection of the disciplines of politics, philosophy and economics. Students may only contract one non-Honors course to complete the minor requirements.  Excluding the 3 Honors Cohort classes, which must be taken at Villanova, students may fulfill two of any other requirements by taking the equivalent course in an Honors-approved student abroad experience.  Students pursuing a PPE minor in Honors may contract only 1 course in total to fulfill the requirements. Students only receive 1 Minor from Honors. If students are pursing the Honors Degree, the PPE Minor would be considered a “track” within their Honors Degree.

To achieve the Honors PPE minor, students must take 6 courses from among the following requirements (minimum 3.33 GPA and active status in Honors required).

3 Honors Cohort Classes

Honors ACS 1: (PPE Cohort)

Honors ACS II: (PPE Cohort)

HON 5700 Colloquia 3

Honors Ethics Elective

ETH 2050 The Good Life:Eth & Cont Prob 3

Honors Economics

Macro, Micro, International, e.g.

Students may also count an economics course during their study abroad semester in Cambridge with permission from the Honors Director. 

Honors Upper-Level Elective

• ECO 3115 Comparative Economic Systems may also be used to satisfy this requirement.
• Students may also count an upper-level elective course taken during their study abroad semester in Cambridge with permission from the Honors Director.

PHI 2300 Philosophy of Law 3

PHI 2450 Catholic Social Thought 3

PSC 2220 International Law 3

PSC 2240 Internat'l Political Economy 3

ECO 3108 Global Political Econ 3

ECO 3126 Amer Econ Development 3

HUM 2100 HIS:The Goods & the Good Life 3

HUM 5950 Citizenship & Globalization 3

Honors Medical Humanities Minor (15 credits)

An interdisciplinary minor offered through the University Honors Program focusing on the intersection of the humanities, medical care, medical ethics, and an holistic approach to medicine.  Students pursuing this minor may contract only one course to fulfill the requirements. Students pursuing a Medical Humanities minor in Honors may contract only 1 course in total to fulfill the requirements. Students only receive 1 Minor from Honors. If students are pursing the Honors Degree, the Medical Humanities Minor would be considered a “track” within their Honors Degree.

To achieve the Honors Medical Humanities Minors students must take 5 courses from among the following requirements (minimum 3.33 GPA and active status in Honors required).

Honors Liberal Arts Elective

Choose two of the following, or:

• Any course within the Honors Interdisciplinary Cohort.

ACS 1000 Ancients 3

ACS 1001 Moderns 3

ENG 1975 Core Lit and Writing Seminar 3

THL 1500 Spirituality & Healing Arts 3

THL 3450 Pastoral Care of the Sick 3

PHI 2117 or SOC 3400

PHI 2117 The Good Doctor 3

SOC 3400 Health, Medicine & Society 3

Honors Senior Capstone

HON 6000 Senior Thesis I 3

HON 5500 Ind Study & Research 3

HON 5506 Ind Study & Res Science 3

Disclaimer: The above program requirements are applicable to students entering Fall 2023 and beyond. Please consult the appropriate archived handbook available on the homepage for years prior to these requirements. In order that programs offered by Villanova University reflect current advances and additions to knowledge and upgraded professional requirements, Villanova University reserves the right to change programs and requirements without prior notice. Students generally are bound to the requirements in effect and published online for the year in which their class begins its first year of study. Special requirements may be in effect for students who have left the University and are being readmitted. Students are advised to check with the web catalog or with their college offices regarding changes that may affect them. Additional academic information may be obtained from the various college offices and the web sites listed for the particular policies, programs and services found in this catalog. 

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College Admissions

Villanova University is a private, Catholic research university in Pennsylvania. With a 20 percent acceptance rate, it's considered moderately competitive —but even that level of selectiveness has an average GPA just shy of 4.0. But acceptance to Villanova isn't just about your test scores and GPA; you'll also need to nail the Villanova supplement essay, rounding out your application with a strong representation of yourself.

In this guide, we'll cover all of Villanova's essay prompts and how to best answer them, including potential topics and pitfalls.

Feature Image: abbike18 /Wikimedia Commons

What Are the Villanova Essay Prompts?

Villanova University only accepts the Common Application . In addition to the required Common Application essay question, you'll be writing additional supplemental essays specifically for Villanova.

Two more supplemental essays are required as part of your application. The first essay, called Villanova Free Choice, gives you five options, and you only have to answer one. You'll have about 250 words to work with!

No prompt is inherently better than the others—pick whichever appeals to you most. Each one is unique to Villanova, and they all add their own flair to the expected essay format.

The second essay is a "Why This College" essay. Essentially, admissions counselors want to know why Villanova is the perfect school for you...in about 150 words, which isn't very much space!

Now, let's take a closer look at these essay prompts and how to answer them.

For the first essay, you'll get to choose which prompt you answer. Read on to make sure you're picking the Villanova prompt that gives you the best chance of getting in!

Essay Prompt #1: Villanova Free Choice

This section gives you five essay prompts. You'll only have to answer one!

The Villanova website suggests that you answer this essay in 250 words even though you have a maximum of 300 words on the Common App. Our recommendation? Keep your response as close to 250 words as possible!

Free Choice Option #1: The Equity and Justice Prompt

St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities?

What Is This Essay Asking You to Do?

Essay prompts addressing equity and justice are very common in the college application process. Why? Because equity and justice are core values of many schools! This means that your response needs to show that you value equity and justice too. 

To show that you hold these core values, you’ll need to tell a real story about a time when you advocated for equity and justice in a community you belong to. The community you choose to write about is up to you, but your response should focus on the actions you took to promote the well-being of your “neighbors,” and why.

What Makes A Good Answer?

#1: Focus on your communities. To answer this question well, think about where you come 

from. What communities are you a part of? Who are the people in these communities? Your act of advocating for equity and justice should involve people who you consider to be your “neighbors”--and that ultimately means that your response should be personal. Pick a scenario in which you advocated for equity and justice for people you truly care about. Your passion will definitely shine through in your response!

#2: Explain what equity and justice mean to you. While there's a generally accepted definition of what constitutes "equity and justice," you may have had life experiences that have infused these words with some specific meanings to you. If you have a definition of equity and justice in your own words that you feel is powerful, include it in your response, and explain how you arrived at that definition.

#3: Place yourself at the center of the action. A good response here will highlight how you have been directly involved in or impacted by equity and justice as you understand it. For example, maybe you realized your high school English reading list included no texts written by people of color, so you got with other students to advocate for changes to the reading list. Highlight something you've done or experienced firsthand to showcase how, like Villanova, equity and justice are at the core of who you are.

What Are Some Potential Essay Topics?

In addition to the essay topics above, consider these possibilities: 

• You realized that many students at your school didn’t have a working understanding of what “equity” actually means! You organized a production with your school’s theatre department that put on a dramatic portrayal of what equity looks like in real life. Proceeds from the production went to a nonprofit organization that students in your school collectively chose.
• You worked with the students who are in the top 10 percent of your high school class to offer summer tutoring sessions to lower income elementary school students who struggled with standardized testing.

Are There Pitfalls You Should Avoid?

#1: Avoid shallow answers. This question isn't really asking you to write about the time that someone was left out on the playground and you invited them into your jump rope game. You'll need to think a bit deeper about what "equity and justice" can mean, and you'll have to show that you understand these concepts on a cultural, social, and/or political level. Think about the implications of equity and justice beyond just inviting someone "in" who was on the outside, and your answer will show Villanova admissions that you have a complex understanding of one of the school's core values.

#2: Don’t brag. Yes, you need to make your actions the centerpiece of your response to this question. But don’t exaggerate the effects of your efforts! Just be truthful about what you accomplished and what the outcome was. There’s no need to brag about your advocacy. The facts of your active participation in efforts for equity and justice will speak for themselves in your response.

Free Choice Option #2: The Truest Thing Prompt

What is the truest thing that you know?

Everyone has principles that guide their life, and this free choice essay prompt is asking you to describe one of yours. In about 250 words, you'll need to respond to this prompt--if you choose it--by selecting the one truest thing you know, and explaining how you came to that conclusion.

Now, don't get bogged down worrying about whether Villanova admissions will agree that your "truest thing" is actually the truest: the prompt asks about the truest thing that you know because they want to see what values guide your life to make you who you are. To "justify" your answer, you'll just need to tell the story of how you came to the conclusion that your truest thing is true.

#1: Tell a story. Think about an experience or situation that showcased the truth of the thing you decide to write about. For example, say you decide that your truest thing is Mr. Rogers' claim: "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping." Maybe there was a situation where your community was hit hard by a natural disaster and you were encouraged by working alongside the helpers who worked to restore your community. Whatever truest thing you choose to write about, telling the story of how you saw the truthfulness of it in a real situation from your life will make this response memorable.

#2: Pick something that 's t otally you. There are probably a lot of things you find to be true that guide your life, but for this response, write about the one that is most likely to showcase one of your core qualities or values. For instance, maybe you've been working hard to practice meditation, and you've become known for your ability to keep calm in tough times. So your truest thing is that through mindfulness, we can find peace in the world around us. Whatever the case may be, write about a "truth" that exemplifies who you are.

#3: Think outside the box. Consider "truest things" that aren't necessarily super serious. Can funny things be true? Can truest things be said with a touch of sarcasm? Yes, and yes. Remember that the point of these free choice essays is to show the person behind the application. As long as you can provide meaningful context for your "truest thing," it's totally fine if yours is funny, ironic, or just kind of kooky.

On top of the essay options above, consider these potential topics:

• You pick a quote from your favorite literary character and tell the story of how that quote became true to you. Maybe that happened through a tough situation with a friend, but it taught you the value of learning from literature...and the insight helped you patch up the situation!
• You tell the story of how you went into a challenging situation believing one thing to be true, but came out on the other side of the situation with a whole new perspective. You explain why that new perspective informs your everyday life choices in the present.

#1: Don't get too cheesy. Your "truest thing" can be something basic to human existence, an ironic quote from Friends, or a principle taken from a philosophical or religious perspective that guides your life, but don't get too cheesy if you're picking a quote. Maybe leave the Dr. Seuss quotes for graduation ceremonies and try putting your "truest thing" into your own words instead.

#2: Don't obsess about finding a quote. Instead of getting caught up trying to think of some pithy quote to talk about, let your memories of meaningful moments in your life guide you to what to write about here. Your "truest thing" doesn't have to be some flowery statement from Bill Gates or John F. Kennedy. You can use your own experiences as your "truest thing," too!

This prompt is all about your relationship with technology!

Free Choice Option #3: The Second Chances Prompt

One of the themes in St. Augustine's book, Confessions, is the idea of redemption. Tell us your story of being given a second chance.

This essay prompt is asking you to explain your understanding of the idea of redemption based on your personal experiences and/or observations.

This question is tied to Villanova's core values, so it's going to be important to them to see that you're a person who has thought through the value of second chances. Telling a story about your experiences with second chances will show admissions counselors that you understand the positive potential of mistakes.

#1: Tell a personal story. The prompt is explicit here: you’re being asked to tell a story about a time you were given a second chance . For instance, maybe you got super busy in high school and neglected your younger sister. When she told you her feelings were hurt, you apologized and made a commitment to spend more time with her. In your response, you could explain how receiving a second chance from a family member taught you that not all hurt is intentional, and you now give others the benefit of the doubt when you're upset.

#2: Reflect on your experience. Like with most of the essay prompts here, you also need to explain what you learned from the experience. Specifically, you need to reflect on what your experience of being given a second chance taught you about redemption. You don’t have to get too philosophical, but you should tie in some explanation of what redemption means to you after being given a second chance in your life.

On top of the possible topics mentioned above, here are two more sample topics to consider:

• You decide to describe your first ever memory of being given a second chance when you were a young child. You describe how that experience laid the foundation for your current definition of redemption.
• You had an experience when you let your team down, but when you came to apologize, the team welcomed you back with open arms. You explain how the experience taught you the transformative power of unconditional love and how second chances make communities stronger.

#1: You forget the personal aspect. Yes, there are plenty of stories about second chances in religious literature and folklore, but chances are that Villanova admissions is already familiar with those stories. You need to tell a story that is more personal or current than that—a real experience or observation of a second chance that has impacted you.

#2: Keep it personal, but not too personal. If you choose to tell about a time that you were given a second chance or that you gave someone else a second chance, don't go too far into the gory details. While you want your response to be genuine and personal, you also want to leave out any details that may put the other people involved in an uncomfortable position.

Free Choice Option #4: The Lessons Learned Prompt

In the Villanova community, we believe that we all learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others?

Do your core values and life choices line up with Villanova's values? If yes, can you prove it? That's basically the crux of what this free choice prompt is asking. Villanova has strong community values that they want to see their future students exhibiting in their own lives. This is your time to show that the lessons you’ve learned in your life have led you to similar values--and that you’re willing to share them with others.

Specifically, this prompt is asking you to tell your story through the lens of a lesson you’ve learned. In other words, you'll need to explain what you learned, how you learned it, and back that up through a description of your real life experiences.

#1: Focus on your background. To answer this question well, dig into your experiences with others in your life. This question emphasizes the idea of learning from your community. Think of a time in your life when you learned something meaningful from a person in your community, whether that’s a friend, mentor, or even someone you didn’t necessarily connect with previously. Use your personal experience as a way to answer this prompt.

#2: Emphasize the experience that taught you the lesson. A good response to this question will show the lesson you learned rather than telling. Did you learn that it’s okay to lean on others when you’re struggling? Did you learn how to find contentment despite difficult circumstances? Whatever you choose to write about, you need to focus on your feelings and actions surrounding what you learned . Delving into the details of the experience that taught you the lesson--and how you felt about it--rather than waxing philosophic about the lesson itself will make a compelling response to this question. 

#3: Pivot to Villanova at the end. Like most of these prompts, this one is asking you to provide some insight into what kind of a student you’ll be at Villanova. This means that part of your response must include your thoughts on why you’d want to share your lesson with the Villanova community. So, think about more universal applications of your lesson. If you were sharing your lesson with fellow students at Villanova, how would you make it relatable to their lives as well?

If you're looking for topic ideas, in addition to the two mentioned above, try these on for size:

• You tell the story of a time when you pushed for a change that would make a policy or experience inclusive of a group who was being left out … but despite your efforts, the change didn’t happen. Then you explain what that experience taught you about how inclusion/exclusion affects people's lives.
• You tell the story of a lesson you learned due to your life circumstances in your home. You explain how those conditions helped form your core outlook on persevering through difficult life circumstances in your response to this prompt.

#1: Avoid cliches. This essay isn’t the place to write about how you learned to never judge a book by its cover or that a penny saved is a penny earned. Don’t invoke idioms or common catchphrases here--they’ll come across as shallow and insincere. The best way to avoid this is to come up with a real example from your life and put what you learned in your own words.

#2: Avoid answers where you aren't an active participant. There have probably been times in your life when you learned something, but you weren’t an active participant in the situation. But this isn't the time to write about situations where you were just a passive observer. Instead, think about a time in your life where you were involved in the action and explain how you participated. This free choice option is your chance to show Villanova that you are willing and able to learn in a wide range of circumstances.

Free Choice Option #5: The Technology Prompt

Augustine's “Miracles are not contrary to nature but only contrary to what we know about nature.” Tell us about a societal issue that you believe the wonder of technology is well-poised to help solve.

This essay prompt is a classic problem-and-solution question, but with a twist: it’s asking you to think of a problem affecting society on a broad scale and explain how you think technology could help solve it. 

This prompt isn’t just for tech experts, though. If you choose this prompt, this is your opportunity to write about a societal issue that you truly care about and use the knowledge you have about technology to imagine a solution . Yes, you want your response to be grounded in reality, but this is also your chance to dream about how real technologies could bring about a better future.

#1: Write from the heart. The best response to this question will be rooted in things you’re already familiar with. Choose to write about a societal issue that’s close to your heart, whether that’s something that affects your local community, a cultural community you’re a member of, or an issue affecting people all over the world. Writing about an issue you truly care about will help your response read as genuine and sincere.

#2: Focus on what you know. The second piece of your response should propose a solution to the societal problem you care about--a solution that involves technology. The technology you propose as a solution to that problem should be something you have experience with in some way. For instance, maybe you’ve spent hours researching cutting edge tech for renewable energy, or you brought a little joy to your high school by doing the daily announcements on TikTok during the COVID-19 pandemic. Choosing an application of technology that you can write about with confidence will make a convincing response to this question.

In addition to the examples above, consider the following possible topics:

• You explain how the limitless connectivity on social networking sites has given you a global perspective on art and culture. You describe how you've connected with other teens from different parts of the world to collaborate on art projects and share them online, and how you would scale this collaboration up for teens around the world.
• You describe how seeing hashtags used in the #MeToo movement and the movement to end gun violence helped you understand a whole new way to create social change. You explain that these examples have motivated you to explore channels for political activism through social media in your own life, and how you would use hashtags to mobilize your peers for political action in the future.

#1: Don't trash social media. Everyone knows that technology has its drawbacks. But this free response question isn't the place to harp on the ethical issues wrapped up in social media. Instead, focus your response on the potentials of social media and other technology to solve real problems.

#2: Don't lose track of your goal. You don't want to waste your response by talking on about all the different ways you use social media and technology in your life. That's not the point of this question. Instead of focusing on technology itself, focus on explaining how a particular condition created by technology could be applied to existing societal problems.

(Sophia J/ Wikimedia )

The "Why Nova" Essay

The second Villanova essay you'll have to write for your Villanova supplement is the " Why This College " essay. Here's the prompt:

Why do you want to call Villanova your new home and how will you become part of our community? (About 150 words)

You'll need to get to know the Villanova community in order to respond to this required essay prompt. In approximately 150 words, you need to do one main thing in your response here: explain what it is about Villanova that makes you want to call it "home."

Since the prompt uses words like "home," "community," and "history," you want your response to show that you've done your research about Villanova . This means that your response should go beyond praising Villanova's great academics or religious affiliation to highlight specific things that you've learned about the school's history, culture, and identity that make you feel like you'll fit right in as a student there.

#1: Go into specifics about "Nova." This prompt is inviting you to show what you know about Villanova by touching on specific aspects of the school that appeal to you . For example, maybe your research revealed that undergraduate students at Villanova can partner with faculty for research projects, and that makes you feel like you'll be welcomed into a community of scholarly collaboration. Think about who you are and who you hope to be at Villanova, then write about one or two aspects of Villanova that make you think, "This is a place where I can achieve my goals."

#2: Explain the why. In addition to describing specific aspects of Villanova's offerings that appeal to you, you want to explain why those things are appealing. For example, maybe you're thrilled to find out that the English department offers an annual Literary Festival, so you explain that that aspect of Villanova is appealing to you because you're an aspiring author. Pairing your "what" with a "why" shows that your decision to apply to Villanova is based on thoughtful reflection.

#3: Connect everything to the future. Picture yourself at Villanova in the context of the things that appeal to you about the school. If you're excited about the Literary Festival, mention in your response that you can't wait to help organize the festival when you are a student. Positioning yourself as an active future member of the Villanova community in your response will help admissions see that you're serious about your education and about Villanova.

In addition to the examples above, here are a couple of potential essay topics:

• Your research reveals that Villanova has come out strong in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. You write about how this stance for justice makes you feel that your dedication to racial justice will be supported by the school when you are a student there.
• Your research reveals that Villanova lives out the Christian Mission by engaging in tangible, ongoing service toward creating a more equitable society. You write about how you feel excited about participating in these efforts as a member of the Nova Nation.

#1: Avoid talking about academics only. This essay is your chance to show that you're attracted to Villanova for more than just its stellar academics. Take this chance to show that "education" means more to you than just sitting in a classroom making good grades. Think about things about Villanova community life that foster learning outside of the classroom and write about them here.

#2: Don't include too many talking points. Yes, Villanova's athletic programs, and their outreach programs, and their undergraduate research opportunities might all be things that draw you to the school, but it's best to pick just one thing here and write about it. This will keep your response from being chaotic and all over the place. Consider choosing the one thing about Villanova that gets you the most excited and go all in for explaining why and how you'll fit into that niche once you get to campus.

Key Tips for Writing the Villanova Essay

Though Villanova's essay prompts are targeted specifically for their school, there are quite a few guidelines you can follow to make your essay strong regardless of what school you're applying for.

Brainstorming doesn't have to be an intensive process. Beginning a project is often the hardest part; taking a minute or five to get a bunch of ideas down on paper, regardless of their quality, lets you get to work without pressure. Take a deep breath, set a timer, and start jotting down as many ideas as you can think of. Once you're done, pick the ones that sound most appealing and move on to the next step.

Now that you have some ideas, you can start spinning them into outlines. Take a few of the ideas that are most appealing to you and start answering the supplemental questions that should come up in your essay. For example, if you're answering the first prompt, you should not only be thinking about your personal experiences with diversity, but also how you hope to support equity at Villanova.

Sketch out a brief plan for each topic. If you find you don't have enough points to make, it's probably not the right idea. Repeat until you have a few outlines to choose from, and then choose the one that you feel strongest about.

Now that you already have an outline, it's far easier to actually write your essay. On your first draft, don't worry too much about staying within the page limit. Don't even worry about word choice or having something you're ready to show somebody else. Just focus on getting all of your ideas down on the page so that you have something to do for the next stage.

Now comes the point where you start taking what you've done and turning it into gold. Editing isn't just about fine-tuning your grammar and spelling ; read your draft aloud to find places where your sentences run on too long, or places where you've used the wrong word. Cut extra words and take out sections that aren't serving your thesis. Be brutal; you can always add things back in if you find you miss them!

Get Feedback

Once you've done a few editing passes on your essay, it's time for the scariest part: showing it to others. Ask a few people who are invested in your success but who aren't likely to be too harsh or overly kind in their suggestions—teachers, coaches, and other authority figures are generally good choices—to take a look at your essay and let you know what they think.

Let them mark up your draft with any mistakes that they find, and set all that feedback aside for a bit. It's a good time to take a break from your essay so that you can come back to it with fresh eyes.

Now that you've had some time away from your essay, it's time to revise. Take all that feedback you received and consider it. You don't have to fix anything that doesn't feel right to you, but do consider why your reviewers may have made that suggestion. Does your essay lack clarity? Could you have chosen a better word? Why are they confused?

Always be sure that your essay sounds like you wrote it, though. Remember: your essay is meant to showcase the things that make you unique. If it reads like every other student's application, it's not working right! If one of your readers has made big suggestions that don't sound like something you'd say, rephrase them until they do, or just don't use them. It's more important that your essay represents you.

What's Next?

A great essay is just one part of a successful Villanova application. Find out what ACT scores and GPA the admissions office is looking for with this handy guide !

If you're seeking financial aid from Villanova, this guide to their tuition and financial aid will help you figure out how much you need and how much you can expect to get .

Though Villanova has some unique considerations for their essays, there are some common tricks and strategies you can use to write your college essay . This guide covers some of the best ways to ensure your application essay is a success!

Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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Villanova University Essay Example by an Accepted Student

Villanova University is a selective private school, so it’s important to write strong essays to help your application stand out. In this post, we’ll share an essay a real student has submitted to Villanova University. (Names and identifying information have been changed, but all other details are preserved).

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 Villanova University es say breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

Prompt: Villanovans are known for “holding doors open” because inclusion is at the core of who we are. Take us on a journey through your background and describe how your life experience has shaped your understanding of the word “inclusion” (300 words).

“Y’all who’s loofa is in the middle of the hallway?? Someone finessed my pizza but I’ll let it slide… Guys, if anyone took my blue scooter from outside my room could u plz make sure to put it back when ur done?”–G-House

These are all real text messages from my dorm group chat. I am one of the senior leaders in an all freshman-girl dorm, and through the trials and tribulations of 32 girls living together, we developed social norms such as labeling your food in the fridge (so your food isn’t “finessed”) and our cut-throat first-come-first-serve shower policy. We know that if someone leaves the common room too messy, that could mean a lecture for all of us so we try our best to collectively keep the dorm tidy. We also know the importance of our Sunday dorm jobs– to leave a well-kept dorm for the cleaning faculty creating a mutual level of respect between us and them. They are included in the community too. But we also have Friday night dorm bonding filled with lots of fun and laughter due to the well-functioning community we have been able to build– the benefits of inclusion.

Inclusion means to be a part of something. In this case, being a part of the dorm community, and an acknowledgment of each and everyone’s role in the community allows for things to run smoothly. Through the concept of inclusion, I have learned the invaluable skill of how to best participate in a community of people I did not choose, nor control and I hope to bring my experiences to Villanova next fall.

What the Essay Did Well

The sample quotes at the beginning made for a really strong hook for this essay. It immediately started the essay off with action and had the reader asking questions about how these statements would relate to the rest of the essay. The beginning of any essay sets the tone for what follows, so drawing in the reader with such bold statements kept the reader engaged as they went through the essay. These quotes also provided some humor which helped to keep the essay casual and fun.

This essay also did a good job of explaining how this student has experienced inclusion. Describing the daily routines and rules of her dorm gave a very tangible depiction of how she has learned to find her place among 32 other girls. Not only does this student discuss how these experiences have made her understand the importance of inclusion, she also mentions other important characteristics that help foster inclusion: collective action, respect, and bonding.

Highlighting these other traits in the examples of how she helped build an inclusive community shows that this student values these characteristics and knows how to foster an inclusive environment. This essay shows that this student has both an understanding of the word inclusion and that she knows tangible steps to take to create an inclusive environment. Showcasing both of these is proof to admissions officers that this student would have a large positive impact on the campus community because she would recognize the importance of inclusion at Villanova and take action to ensure it exists on campus.

What Could Be Improved

The main way this student could improve this essay is by including stories that show her actively creating an inclusive environment, rather than telling us policies that fostered inclusion. The essay currently relies on telling the reader what the community did—”We know that if someone leaves the common room too messy, that could mean a lecture for all of us so we try our best to collectively keep the dorm tidy.”—rather than telling a story and letting the reader see inclusion happen right before their eyes. Telling the reader what happened makes them feel more removed from the story, while showing puts them in the center of the action.

Much of the first paragraph could be rewritten to show inclusion in the dorm community. For example, the sentence above might look something like this: “After our Halloween movie marathon, my friends and I pushed the common room couches back into their rightful places and picked up the popcorn we spilled during countless jump-scares, happy we could save the entire floor an hour long lecture with just five minutes of clean up.” This sentence still shares the same facts as the one currently in the essay, but there’s more detail, revealing this student’s personality, and it is more engaging since the narration is putting the reader in the common room with the student and her friends. Employing this same tactic to rewrite sentences to be more descriptive and engaging would make the entire essay much stronger.

Where to Get Your Villanova University Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your Villanova University  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

Villanova Supplemental Essays 2024 | Strategies and Insights for Success

Villanova University’s Class of 2027 admissions statistics reveal a competitive landscape, with an acceptance rate of just 20.5%, signaling a significant decrease compared to previous years. Admitted students boast impressive academic credentials, with a mid-50% SAT range of 1450-1520 and a strong record of mostly A’s in AP/honors courses. However, securing a spot at Villanova goes beyond grades and test scores; crafting compelling Common App and Villanova supplemental essays is crucial for aspiring Wildcats. In this blog, we delve into the Villanova supplemental essays for the 2023-24 admissions cycle, offering valuable tips to help applicants captivate admissions officers and stand out in the competitive pool.

Also read Villanova Acceptance Rate | Strategies and Insights for Admission Success 2024

Villanova Supplemental Essays #1

For the first Villanova-specific essay, applicants are invited to delve into their thoughts, experiences, and opinions by choosing one of the following five topics and submitting a written response of approximately 250 words each:

Prompt One: St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities?

St. Augustine emphasized the importance of well-being beyond oneself, focusing on the good of one’s neighbor as well. Reflect on how you have advocated for equity and justice in your communities. Whether through personal experiences or involvement in larger causes, this prompt offers an opportunity to showcase your commitment to justice and fairness, locally and globally.

Guidance: Highlight instances where you’ve spoken up for peers in need or participated in activism, volunteer work, or other movements promoting equity and justice. While articulating your beliefs in inclusion, equity, tolerance, and diversity is important, ensure your essay is compelling by sharing personal stories or experiences.

Prompt Two: As an Augustinian community, we believe that you should see people for who they are. Please share with us a time when you were misjudged based on your identity or background.

In an Augustinian community, seeing people for who they are is paramount. Share a time when you were misjudged based on your identity or background. This prompt offers a platform to communicate your passions and values, whether they revolve around historical patterns, scientific concepts, cultural interests, or philosophical beliefs. Emphasize your passion for your chosen topic and reveal insights into the core of your soul.

Guidance: Keep your response simple yet impactful. Use this space to convey what matters most to you in life, demonstrating your passion and revealing aspects of your character and beliefs. Avoid becoming overwhelmed by the freedom of this prompt; instead, focus on communicating your authentic self effectively.

Villanova Supplemental Essays

In the Villanova application process, applicants encounter thought-provoking essay prompts designed to reveal their character, values, and potential contributions to the university community. Let’s explore prompts three and four for the 2023-24 admissions cycle:

Prompt Three: “In the Villanova community, we believe that we all learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others?”

Understanding the Prompt: This prompt seeks to gauge applicants’ potential as community members at Villanova. The university values individuals who have gained wisdom from extracurricular involvement and leadership roles in high school. Highlight the lessons learned from your present communities, such as involvement in community service, holding paying jobs, or participating in sports. Then, illustrate how these lessons will shape your contributions to the collegiate community at Villanova.

Prompt Four: “At Villanova, we often say ‘each of us strengthens all of us.’ In a time of personal challenges, how do you borrow from the strength of others?”

Understanding the Prompt: Prompt four delves into the idea of community support during personal challenges. Villanova seeks applicants who can demonstrate resilience and the ability to seek support from family, friends, and social or religious organizations during difficult times. Share a personal story from your high school experience that exemplifies how you leaned on others for strength and support, showcasing your maturity and willingness to seek help when needed.

Also see Best Colleges at Oxford 2024

Villanova Supplemental Essays #2: Why Villanova?

Prompt: Why do you want to call Villanova your new home and how will you become part of our community?

Crafting a compelling response to Villanova’s “Why Villanova?” essay prompt requires thoughtful consideration and attention to detail, especially with a strict 150-word limit. To address both components effectively, applicants must demonstrate a genuine connection to Villanova’s community and articulate their plans for meaningful involvement. Here are key points to consider:

Why Villanova?

• Emphasize the cohesive atmosphere fostered by the 98% of first-year students living on campus, contributing to a vibrant community spirit.
• Highlight the diverse student body, with students hailing from around 50 foreign countries, offering opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and learning.
• Showcase your interest in Villanova’s extensive array of student organizations, discussing specific ones aligned with your passions and interests.
• Express your commitment to community service, inspired by Villanova students’ impressive 250,000 annual volunteer hours.

Becoming Part of the Community

• Detail your academic aspirations, citing Villanova’s renowned programs and faculty expertise in areas such as the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, business, engineering, or nursing.
• Discuss your enthusiasm for undergraduate research opportunities available at Villanova, showcasing your eagerness to engage in hands-on learning experiences.
• Explore how you plan to leverage Villanova’s location near Philadelphia for internships, community service initiatives, and other enriching opportunities.
• Highlight your interest in global experiences through Villanova’s Office of Education Abroad, outlining your plans to participate in semester, summer, or intensive programs abroad.

Writing a Winning Essay

• Avoid generic statements and recycled content, focusing instead on specific attributes and opportunities that align with your interests and goals.
• Demonstrate your fit for Villanova by showcasing how your past experiences and achievements will contribute to the university’s vibrant community.
• Showcase your enthusiasm for Villanova’s resources, both academic and extracurricular, and illustrate how you plan to maximize these opportunities for personal and academic growth.

By addressing these points with clarity and specificity, applicants can create compelling “Why Villanova?” essays that resonate with admissions officers and demonstrate their potential as valuable additions to the Villanova community.

The Importance of Villanova Supplemental Essays?

When aiming for admission to Villanova, it’s essential to recognize the weight of each application component. Among the factors considered by the admissions committee, the essays stand prominently. While GPA, curriculum rigor, and class rank hold utmost significance, the essays follow closely behind as one of the three “very important” factors. This emphasizes the pivotal role essays play in shaping the admissions decision. Moreover, seven other factors, including recommendations, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities, are deemed “important,” further underscoring the significance of the essays in the holistic review process. Thus, prospective Wildcats should approach their supplemental essays with meticulous attention and dedication, recognizing their potential to sway the admissions committee and secure their place at Villanova.

The importance of the Villanova supplemental essays cannot be overstated. As prospective students navigate the competitive admissions process, they must recognize the pivotal role these essays play in presenting a comprehensive picture of their qualifications, aspirations, and fit for the university community. By approaching the essays with sincerity, authenticity, and a thorough understanding of Villanova’s values and culture, applicants can effectively convey their unique attributes and perspectives, ultimately enhancing their chances of securing admission to this esteemed institution.

Villanova University Supplemental Essay Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to approach the Villanova essays? CollegeAdvisor.com’s guide to the Villanova supplemental essays will show you how to write engaging Villanova essays and maximize your chances of admission. If you need help crafting your Villanova supplemental essays, create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272 .

Villanova Essay Guide Quick Facts:

• According to U.S. News , Villanova University is considered a most selective school with an acceptance rate of 31%.
• The Villanova University ranking is #49 in National Universities .
• We recommend answering all Villanova supplemental essays comprehensively and thoughtfully.

What is Villanova ranked?

Villanova is a private Catholic university located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia. They are also the only Augustinian university in the United States. Every year, U.S. News & World Report publishes its rankings of the Best Colleges in the United States. Each of the 1,466 bachelor’s degree-granting institutions in the U.S. is evaluated based on 17 performance indicators of academic quality. These include application requirements, student-to-faculty ratio, campus life, and more.

The Villanova University ranking is currently tied at #49 with Lehigh University, Northeastern University, Ohio State University (Columbus), Pepperdine University, and Purdue University. The Villanova University ranking undoubtedly contributes to their current acceptance rate of 31%. However, don’t let the Villanova University ranking deter you from applying.

Remember, the Villanova University ranking won’t directly impact your admissions results. To maximize your admissions odds, then, don’t focus on the Villanova University ranking. Instead, just try to write the best Villanova application essays you can. After all, strong Villanova essays can make a major difference in the admissions process.

Similarly, the Villanova University ranking shouldn’t be your only reason for applying. As a Top 50 school, Villanova receives many applications from students who only apply for reasons of prestige. As you build your college list , focus on finding the best schools for you . The Villanova University ranking can be a useful tool; however, you shouldn’t base your decision to apply on the Villanova University ranking alone.For a deeper understanding of the Villanova University ranking, and college rankings in general, check out CollegeAdvisor.com’s expert guide .

Does Villanova University have any supplemental essays?

Yes. Villanova University requires two short supplemental essays in addition to the Common App Personal Statement. One of the Villanova supplemental essays lets you choose from five Villanova essay prompts.Your Villanova supplemental essays must be different than your Common Application essay. All applicants must complete two Villanova supplemental essays. However, you can choose which Villanova essay prompts to answer.Not sure how to choose a Common App essay prompt? Get some helpful tips from our essay guide .

How do I write the Villanova supplemental essay?

Consider your options.

First, read the five Villanova essay prompts. Then, think about what you want to convey in your Villanova supplemental essays. Consider each option, since the Villanova essay prompts are quite unique. We’ll list out the Villanova essay prompts later in this guide.Don’t choose a prompt at random—your Villanova application essay will be strongest if your topic matters to you. So, make sure you remain deliberate as you choose a prompt for your Villanova application essay.

Try freewriting

Still not sure how to start your Villanova essays? Start with a reflection exercise . First, sit quietly with your thoughts for five to ten minutes. Looking at the Villanova essay prompts, do any topics come up that connect to your identity, experiences, or values? What thoughts stand out to you? Additionally, how might this thought reveal some aspect of your identity or interests? Then, connect your reflections to the Villanova essay prompts. Is there a part of your identity that you can highlight with one of the Villanova essay prompts? Do you have an extracurricular activity, leadership role, or life experience that connects to one of the Villanova supplemental essays?

Consider your application narrative

Additionally, think about how each topic fits into your application narrative. Your personal narrative plays a crucial part in the college application process, and the Villanova essays help form this narrative. As you write, then, look for themes across your responses. These themes will make up your candidate profile, so make sure they’re clear.

Trust your instincts.

If you instantly feel a connection to one of the Villanova application essay prompts, then choose that one. You will write stronger Villanova essays if you feel attached to your topics, and thoughtful essay responses will increase your admissions odds.Still having trouble choosing from the Villanova supplemental essay prompts? Need some extra motivation to help you get through the process? If so, read our article for more tips on how to write a great essay.

What are Villanova University’s essays?

There are two required Villanova supplemental essays in the 2021-2022 Common App. We have listed the prompts for the Villanova supplemental essays below. We’ve also included tips on how to complete each of the Villanova essay prompts.Each of the Villanova essays is short—less than 250 words. However, don’t let the length of the Villanova essays intimidate you. Instead, jump right in, get to the point, and make every word count.For a full list of application requirements aside from the Villanova essays, please visit Villanova’s website .

Villanova Supplemental Essay – Question 1 (Required):

For the first Villanova-specific essay, we have offered a range of topics to pique your interest. We hope to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, experiences, and opinions. Choose one of the five topics below and submit a written response in about 250 words. Prompt 1: St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities? (250 words recommended.) Prompt 2: What is the truest thing you know? (250 words recommended.) Prompt 3: One of the themes in St. Augustine’s book, Confessions, is the idea of redemption. Tell us your story of being given a second chance. (250 words recommended.) Prompt 4: In the Villanova community, we believe that we all learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others? (250 words recommended.) Prompt 5: Augustine’s “Miracles are not contrary to nature but only contrary to what we know about nature.” Tell us about a societal issue that you believe the wonder of technology is well-poised to help solve. (250 words recommended.)

Choosing a prompt

As you read through the Villanova application essay prompts, do any topics stand out to you? Can you highlight part of your identity with a specific Villanova supplemental essay prompt? Or, can you link an extracurricular activity, leadership role, or life experience to one of the Villanova supplemental essays? Each of the Villanova essay prompts lets you share something different about yourself. Spend some time with the Villanova essay prompts, then, to determine which is right for you.

If you are having trouble choosing a prompt, then start with a writing exercise. First, choose 2-3 of the Villanova essay prompts that interest you and set a timer for 10 minutes. Then, write as much as you can about that topic. Once your timer goes off, review your work. Couldn’t stop writing about one specific topic? If so, choose that topic as your Villanova application essay prompt. Remember, your Villanova application essays should be authentic, cohesive, and different from your Common Application essay.

Starting your draft

Now that you’ve chosen your prompt, it’s time to start drafting! Below, we’ve broken down some questions to think about for the Villanova essay prompts. Whichever prompt you choose, though, make sure you use specific details to tell your story.

If you pride yourself on your sense of equity and justice, then you might pick the first Villanova supplemental essay prompt. Perhaps you founded your school’s first LGBTQ+ student club, or you saw a need and fundraised to start a youth-oriented organization in your community. Whatever your story, always include specific details. Additionally, always write about the “why.” Why did you choose this particular form of activism? What does it mean to advocate for yourself or for another person/community? Finally, why do equity and justice matter to you? Bonus points, also, if you can connect your Villanova essays back to the university’s core values.

Do you consider yourself to be humble, honest, and unafraid to admit when you have made a mistake? Then maybe prompt #3 is more your speed. This Villanova essay prompt is twofold. First, it asks you to describe the challenge or failure you faced. Then, it asks you to discuss how you redeemed yourself. As you draft, avoid just focusing on your failure. Instead, emphasize how you redeemed yourself. What did you learn from this situation? How did it make you feel? Don’t be nervous about being vulnerable—it’s okay to show your reader that you aren’t perfect. After all, perfection is boring. Use your Villanova application essay to reflect on your experience and how you created positive change from a less-than-ideal situation.

Maybe you are a think-outside-of-the-box type who is concerned about our society’s future. If so, consider Villanova supplemental essay prompt #5. First, select a societal issue you want to solve. No issue is too big or too small! Then, describe how technology can solve the issue. You might discuss how certain technologies could make the world a better place. This can give your reader insight into your knowledge and experience. It can also highlight your curiosity and problem-solving skills. If possible, highlight your academic interests and how they might complement your studies.

Villanova Supplemental Essays Draft Key Questions:

• Did you choose a topic that connects to your identity and interests?
• Does your response highlight an important aspect of your identity that supplements your application?
• Does your response showcase your values and how they relate to those of the Villanova community?

Villanova Supplemental Essay – Question 2 (Required):

You may be aware that our community, which we have affectionately named “Nova Nation,” is an exciting place to be. With a legacy spanning nearly 180 years, there is rich history to look back on, and an abundant future to look forward to. The Admission Committee would like to know why you want to call Villanova your new home and become part of our community? (150 words recommended.)

This second of the Villanova supplemental essay prompts is their version of the “Why Us” essay. If you are not familiar with this type of essay, we recommend reading our Supplemental Essays FAQ guide before you start writing.

Do your research

For this Villanova application essay, you need to explain why you want to join the “Nova Nation.” First, familiarize yourself with the Villanova website and social media pages. Then, research what about the university excites you the most. Make a list of majors, programs, or activities that stand out.

Get specific

As you approach this Villanova application essay, make sure you include as many specific details as possible. Avoid statements that might apply to any school. Rather, focus on what makes Villanova unique. What do you like about Villanova? What part of the Villanova community do you most want to join? Don’t just list the things you love about Villanova. Instead, choose a few specific examples to discuss in detail.Perhaps you are a stargazing enthusiast who loves service and social justice. Describe how Villanova’s astronomy and astrophysics major aligns with your academic interest as well as how you plan to work for the common good in their campus ministry.

Essentially, your Villanova application essay should describe, in specific terms, how you will take advantage of what Villanova has to offer.Also, be sure your Villanova application essay indicates how you would fit into the Villanova community. What will you add to Villanova’s campus? How will you embody Villanova’s core values? Remember, you have limited space in your Villanova essays, so be thorough yet concise.

Villanova Supplemental Essay Draft Key Questions:

• Does your Villanova essay discuss what you love most about the Villanova community?
• Do you reference programs, majors, and activities by name?
• Does your essay explain what makes you a good fit for Villanova?

What does Villanova University look for in essays?

Villanova seeks students who reflect the school’s three core values: Veritas (Truth), Unitas (Unity), and Caritas (Love). The Villanova supplemental essays assess how well you’ll fit into the “Nova Nation.” The Villanova essay prompts also help the admissions team understand your opinions, thoughts, and experiences.Villanova’s website lists six tips for writing a strong Villanova application essay. They are:

1. Speak your truth.

Allow your honesty to come through in your Villanova application essays. Each of your Villanova essays should show the admissions office who you truly are.

Have fun with the Villanova supplemental essays! Celebrate how much you have learned about yourself as you write your essays.

3. Make your words count and worry less about counting your words.

These Villanova essay prompts are quite short. Review your Villanova essays to confirm that each word matters.

4. There are no right or wrong answers.

Write about what is true to you. The rest will fall into place.

5. Seriously proofread and proofread seriously.

Nobody likes a run-on sentence or grammatical error. Take some extra time to proofread to ensure your Villanova essays are ready to submit.

6. Ask for a second opinion, not a rewrite.

A second set of eyes is always helpful. However, don’t let your voice get lost in the mix. Your reader wants to learn about you, not your best friend.Need more helpful tips on writing your Villanova supplemental essays? Check out this virtual Essay Workshop below featuring Villanova University’s Assistant Director of Admissions.

Villanova Supplemental Essays: Final Thoughts

Writing short yet thoughtful Villanova supplemental essays can seem stressful. However, don’t let the Villanova essays stop you from applying! Instead, use the Villanova supplemental essays to show who you are outside the classroom. Reference this guide as you tackle the Villanova application essays. Good luck!

This essay guide on Villanova was written by Claire Babbs , UT Austin ‘12. For more CollegeAdvisor.com resources, click here . Want help crafting your Villanova supplemental essays? Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.

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Honors Program

<p>I got asked to apply to Villanova’s Honors program. Its a three page essay and a ton of paperwork. Does anyone know what the advantages are to the honors program? Should I even bother if they’re closer to the bottom of my list?</p>

<p>I was under the impression that you don’t apply for the honors program until you have submitted your registration deposit. So, no, don’t do it unless you’re planning on going there.</p>

<p>A select number of additional accepted Early Action Candidates will receive invitations to apply to the University Honors Program in late February; review of applications, and notification of candidates are completed by April 1.</p>

<p>Well I don’t know if you’re an EA applicant or not so that doesn’t really mean anything to me. Sorry.</p>

<p>My D got an invite too. She is not sure she is going to V, but decided to complete the application and write the essay yesterday anyway, after looking at the honors website and learning more about the program.</p>

<p>do you have to be invited to submit an application to the honors program? i just found out that i was accepted to villanova last week, but i didnt get an invitiation, although i have the right scores to be considered a candidate.</p>

<p>My son was accepted EA and received an invitation for the honors program last week. It is due, not postmarked, by March 31st. He is not interested in applying.</p>

<p>I don’t really see the point of Nova’s honors program… just because someone did not apply early does not mean that they deserve any less “honors” (ok, i’m a tad bitter). this really leads me to think that it’s just an unnecessary distinction that just might look nice on a job application.</p>

<p>I was under the impression that regular decision candidates who qualify can apply for the Honors Program in May. I don’t think that it is limited to just the EA students.</p>

<p>VNovaMom, that was my impression too (which is why I said what I did earlier in this thread).</p>

<p>ok, i stand corrected- but still, from what i’ve heard honors programs are really only worth it in terms of the “perks” they provide, not the designation itself. does anyone know if nova offers any such perks? (i.e. early class registration, housing preference, etc.?)</p>

<p>Bump… does anyone know how incoming freshmen who were admitted RD can apply for the honors program? On Villanova’s website, I can only find the form to apply for current students.</p>

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Villanova University

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Want to see your chances of admission at Villanova University?

We take every aspect of your personal profile into consideration when calculating your admissions chances.

Villanova University’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Select-a-prompt short response.

Please select one of the four essay prompts listed below to fulfill the writing requirement and respond in about 250 words.

St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities?

As an Augustinian community, we believe that you should see people for who they are. Please share with us a time when you were misjudged based on your identity or background.

In the Villanova community, we learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others?

At Villanova, we often say “each of us strengthens all of us.” In a time of personal challenges, how do you borrow from the strength of others?

Why This College Short Response

Why Villanova? Why do you want to call Villanova your new home and become part of our community?

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

Villanova University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Action/Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 15

You Have: 

Villanova 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 250 words, 1 short response of 150 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Oddball , Community

Essay #1: Villanova Free Choice (2023-24)

For the first Villanova-specific essay, we have offered a range of topics to pique your interest. We hope to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, experiences, and opinions. Choose one of the five topics below and submit a written response in about 250 words.

Prompt 1: St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities? 

If you choose this prompt, then social justice is probably pretty important to you. And you don’t have to be a protest organizer to impress admissions here. It can be just as bold to engage in a dialogue with family members from older generations on controversial topics or utilize your creativity to draw informative comics breaking down complex issues for Instagram. If you’re feeling stuck, maybe start by thinking about the topics that are most important to you. What keeps you up at night? Gun violence? Corporate greed? Food deserts? Next, think about what steps you’ve taken in your life to create change, inform, and/or organize. Ultimately, the key to writing an excellent response to this prompt is in the details. Don’t just tell Villanova about something you’ve advocated for recently; tell them why you did so, and maybe even share how you would like to continue engaging with or fighting for equity and justice in the future.

Prompt 2: As an Augustinian community, we believe that you should see people for who they are. Please share with us a time when you were misjudged based on your identity or background.

This prompt will likely stick out to students who know what it’s like to be reduced to one aspect of their background or identity, and odds are, you have a specific memory in mind. As you write your response, you’ll want to make sure you summarize your account as succinctly as possible; that way, you can dedicate most of your words to discussing your feelings and experience. Since you only have 250 words to work with, you won’t be able to write a lengthy thesis on the general public’s preconceived notions about people who appear different from them, but you can reveal more information about your background and experiences. Share what it’s like living in a world where stories are often assigned to you before you have the chance to introduce yourself and offer admissions deeper insight into who you are in the process.

Prompt 3: In the Villanova community, we learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others? 

If you find yourself drawn to this prompt, we’re willing to bet you’ve learned a thing or two in your life that you want to share with others. By all means, lean into your instincts. In order to ace your response, show admissions that you are capable of thoughtful reflection, seeing different sides, adopting a growth mindset, and/or sharing with the world so that others can avoid suffering. Maybe you learned a lesson about the gift of the here and now after losing a relative in an abrupt way. Or, perhaps, you wish to tell your peers, “They’re not judging you! They’re too busy thinking about themselves!” Whatever your life lesson may be, we encourage you to leave some space to share why this lesson is valuable and who you think will benefit from your advice.

Prompt 4: At Villanova, we often say “each of us strengthens all of us.” In a time of personal challenges, how do you borrow from the strength of others? 

Life can be difficult—especially during college when you’re becoming a whole adult—and when it is, we often turn to loved ones for support. Borrowing from the strength of others requires humility and vulnerability, which are wonderful traits for any community member to have. After all, even though the word itself isn’t mentioned, “community” is at the heart of this prompt. Many applicants are likely to think of a beloved mentor who has guided them through periods of hardship in the past. It’s important to remember, as you write, that this essay is about you, so don’t spend too many words describing the actions of others. Instead, showcase your ability to connect, to be inspired, to see yourself as part of something bigger than yourself. Ultimately, the kind of person who can borrow from the strength of others is likely to lend strength to others in times of need and will make an excellent addition to any college campus.

Essay #2: Why Villanova?

Why do you want to call villanova your new home and become part of our community (150 words).

A classic short why essay. This is the time to do some research on Villanova’s course offerings and extracurriculars, and then show admissions why this particular university stands out from the crowd for you. Don’t be afraid to go deep! Beyond the classes and professors in your desired academic department, explore the options for other subjects you’ve always wanted to study. Learn about clubs and special events on campus to get a feel for student life. Read over the school’s mission statement to get to know the community both in and around the campus. You might even want to read up on the notable alumni you admire and provide examples as to how they inspired you to attend! By the time you’re done, you’ll have a whole list of reasons for wanting to call Villanova your new home. Now all you have to do is arrange them. Think about telling a story that illustrates your path to Villanova and shows admissions that this community is the perfect place for you to pursue your degree.

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Villanova English

Welcome to the blog for the Villanova English department! Visit often for updates on department events, guest speakers, faculty and student accomplishments, and reviews and musings from professors and undergraduates alike.

Thursday, February 1, 2024

English and creative writing awards.

 Villanova English Department Essay Awards, 2023-24

If you have a piece of work that you're especially proud of, please consider submitting it for consideration for one of these awards.

The Margaret Powell Esmonde Memorial Award , which comes with a prize of $250, is given to the most distinguished scholarly or critical essay written by a graduate student in a Villanova English course within the last 12 months.

The Jerome J. Fischer Memorial Awards , which come with a prize of $250, are given to the most distinguished scholarly or critical essays written by an undergraduate student at Villanova within the last 12 months.

Submissions for the Fischer Award must have been written either for a Villanova English course (all except ENG 1975) or for a Villanova Honors course (1842 level or higher) taught by a member of the Villanova English faculty. It is permissible to revise or expand papers beyond what was submitted for the course. Submissions may be excerpted from a senior Honors thesis.

The Core Literature and Writing Seminar Essay Award , which also comes with a prize of $250, is given to the most distinguished critical essay written for a Villanova Core Literature and Writing Seminar (ENG 1975) in the previous calendar year (i.e. in Spring or Fall 2023).

• In addition to their essay, students should include a cover page including the course and professor for which the paper was written, as well as their email and a local mailing address

• Students should also submit the essay assignment or an approximation of the assignment.

• Essays should be formatted in Times New Roman 12 (or equivalent font) and double-spaced.

• For the Fischer Award, papers up to 6 pages will be considered separately from papers that are 6-15 pages. Longer papers are expected to engage scholarly sources.

• Essays should be formatted in MLA or Chicago Style.

• Only one submission per award is allowed.

• Judges are looking for argumentative originality and rigor, elegance of writing, and interpretive incisiveness. Submissions should be carefully proofread.

The deadline for submissions is Friday, March 14, 2024. Submissions should be emailed as an attachment to Professor Joseph Drury .

For previous winners, as well as information about Jerome J. Fischer, see our department Awards page .

In addition...

The George D. Murphy, Ph.D. & Honors/English Awards in Creative Writing

The contests are open to all Villanova undergraduates and will be judged anonymously by a panel of Villanova faculty and Philadelphia area writers. Winners will receive a $250 cash award and will be honored and the Department of English awards reception on Friday, April 26.

Entries must be typed. For poetry submit no more than five poems (ten page maximum). Prose entries should be no more than twenty-five pages. The name of the author should only appear on the cover letter and should not appear on the work itself.

The cover letter should include:

Name, address, phone number, major, email and titles of the poems or prose piece.

Email entries as a Word Document to Alan Drew and Lisa Sewell .

George D. Murphy, Ph.D. received his B.A. (1949) and M.A. (1951) in English from Notre Dame University and his Ph.D. in American Civilization from the University of Pennsylvania in 1964. He joined Villanova’s English Department in 1954 and retired in 2000 after 46 years of service. His scholarly publications focused on American writers of the 20th Century. While at Villanova, he was known for his exquisite sense of humor and a singular gift for recalling and recounting a host of humorous tales. While an undergraduate at Notre Dame, he was on the editorial board of its literary magazine— The Juggler of Notre Dame — and contributed a number of poems, short stories, and critical essays. He returned to creative writing at the end of his life as a way of coping with grief over his wife’s death and produced many first-rate poems.

Deadline: Friday, March 8th

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

How to Get Into Villanova: Acceptance Rate & Strategies

June 9, 2023

Sometimes a college’s growing athletic prowess can catapult its popularity, enhance its academic reputation, and lead to an increase in selectivity. Such is the case with Villanova University, a private, Catholic institution located in the posh Main Line suburbs of Philadelphia. Nova’s 1985 NCAA Men’s Basketball title propelled the once-regional institution into the national spotlight; that same team’s titles in 2016 and 2018 helped the university reach a new stratosphere of selectivity. In fact, applications to the university have increased by 30% in one recent five-year period—and the Villanova University acceptance rate, which was close to 50% as recently as 2014, hit 21% for the entering class in the fall of 2024.

Given that the process of gaining acceptance into Villanova becomes increasingly challenging with each passing year, this blog is designed to provide you with data on:

• Villanova acceptance rate 2023
• Villanova’s Early Decision acceptance rate 2023
• SAT, ACT, GPA, and class rank of accepted Villanova applicants
• Admissions trends 2023
• The demographics of current Villanova undergraduates
• Villanova’s yield rate
• How Villanova admissions officers evaluate candidates
• Tips for applying to Villanova
• Nova essay prompts
• How to assess whether applying to Villanova is even worth the $80 application fee (for you)

Many students applying to Villanova may also find the following blogs to be of interest:

How to Get Into:

• Fordham University
• Boston College 
• Georgetown 

Let’s begin with an examination of the most recent admissions data.

Villanova: Acceptance Rate – 2023

The University received 23,721 applications for its 2023-24 freshman class. In targeting a class size of 1,700 students, the Villanova acceptance rate was 20.5%. This was lower than recent Villanova acceptance rates which were as follows:

• Class of 2026: 23%

Villanova Early Decision Acceptance Rate

In putting together the Class of 2026, the university accepted 815 of 1,467 ED applicants. This means that the Villanova Early Decision acceptance rate is 56%. Clearly applying ED gives students a massive edge in the admissions process at this institution.

Villanova offers both ED I and ED II, with November 15 and January 15 deadlines.

Villanova Admissions – SAT, ACT, GPA, and Class Rank

Students admitted (different from enrolled) into the Class of 2027 possessed middle-50% GPAs of 4.20-4.58 and middle-50% standardized test scores of 1450-1520 on the SAT and 33-35 on the ACT. Among those actually enrolled in the Class of 2026, the SAT range was 1390-1480, the ACT range was 32-34. Also, 70% percent of students from the most recent enrolled cohort placed in the top 10% of their high school class.

Admissions Trends & Notes – Class of 2027

• The 23,721 applications received was slightly lower than the previous cycle.
• 50% of those admitted to the Class of 2027 applied test-optional.
• Continuing on that subject, Nova will remain test-optional for the 2023-24 admissions cycle.
• 37% of admitted students to the Class of 2027 were involved in the arts.
• 82% of admitted students played a sport in high school.

Who Gets Into Villanova University?

Let’s look at the demographics of Villanova undergraduates:

Geographically, the breakdown of the Class of 2026 is as follows:

• Mid-Atlantic: 992
• New England: 318
• Midwest: 139
• Other U.S.: 35

As with all selective colleges, those from lower-populated, more remote areas of the country (e.g. Wyoming, South Dakota, and Alaska) enjoy a boost to their admissions prospects.

Only 2% of undergrads are international students. Out of the 42 countries represented in the undergraduate student body, the most heavily-represented are:

Villanova University Acceptance Rate (Continued)

Looking at ethnic identity, the breakdown of the Class of 2026 was as follows:

• Hispanic: 13%
• African American: 6%
• Two or more races: 4%

The breakdown by gender of the Class of 2026 reveals 2% more female students than males.

• Female: 51%

The majority of students at Villanova identify as Catholic. Here is a complete look at the religious affiliation amongst undergrads at this school:

• Catholic: 71%
• Protestant: 9%
• No Preference: 5%
• Unknown: 7%

Nova’s Yield Rate

Villanova University’s yield rate — the percentage of accepted students who elect to enroll, divided by the total number of students who are admitted — was 32% last year. For comparison, schools like Stanford and Harvard were over 80%, and the University of Chicago, MIT, and Yale all sported 70%+ yield rates. Villanova also finished behind other comparable institutions such as Boston College and Georgetown.

How Villanova Rates Applicants

Villanova ranks only three factors as being “very important” to their admissions process: rigor of secondary school record, GPA, and class rank. Rating as “important” are: essays, recommendations, extracurricular activities, talent/ability, character/personal qualities, work experience, and volunteer work. “Considered” factors are: standardized test scores, first-generation status, legacy status, race/ethnicity, geographic residence, state residency, and the level of an applicant’s demonstrated interest.

In the words of Villanova admissions officers themselves, they are seeking students who are “intellectually inspired, morally grounded, and globally minded” and those who have the capacity to be change-makers, chance-takers, and difference-makers. In evaluating your application, the committee promises to take “a holistic approach to reviewing applicants to our undergraduate programs. When we read your application we will consider the complete picture – including your academic performance and rigor, activities outside the classroom, recommendations, essays, life experiences and, if reported, test scores. We want to learn who you are as a student and as a person.”

Tips for Applying to Villanova

If you plan on joining the 23,000+ Wildcat hopefuls for the next admissions cycle, you should know the following:

• There are no interviews offered through the university. As such, you’ll need to use the essays and recommendations to forge a personal connection with an admissions officer.
• Villanova does consider “ demonstrated interest ” so it is critical that you initiate contact with the admissions office, connect through social media, and visit campus or meet Villanova reps at college fairs near you.
• In addition to the Common App essay, make sure to dedicate sufficient time and effort to the supplemental essays required by Villanova University. In the 2022-23 cycle, the instructions/prompts are as follows:

Essay #1: Villanova Free Choice (2022-23)

For the first Villanova-specific essay, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, experiences, and opinions. Choose  one  of the five topics below and submit a written response in about 250 words.

Prompt One: St. Augustine states that well-being is “not concerned with myself alone, but with my neighbor’s good as well.” How have you advocated for equity and justice in your communities?

Prompt Two: What is the truest thing that you know?

Prompt Three: One of the themes in St. Augustine’s book,  Confessions , is the idea of redemption. Tell us your story of being given a second chance.

Prompt Four: In the Villanova community, we believe that we all learn from one another. What is a lesson in life that you have learned that you would want to share with others?

Prompt Five: Augustine’s “Miracles are not contrary to nature but only contrary to what we know about nature.” Tell us about a societal issue that you believe the wonder of technology is well-poised to help solve.

Essay #2: Why Villanova? (2022-23)

Prompt:  Why do you want to call Villanova your new home and how will you become part of our community?

Please submit a written response of about 150 words.

For specific advice on how to address each one of these prompts, visit our blog: Villanova University Essay Prompts and Tips .

Villanova University Acceptance Rate – Final Thoughts 

With Villanova growing increasingly more selective pretty much every year, you will likely need to possess strong SAT/ACT scores, close to a 4.0 weighted GPA, and earn a place in the top 10% of your high school class. Applying ED will provide a sizable edge if you find yourself “on the cusp” from an admissions standpoint. Further, all college-bound teens need to make sure that they formulate an appropriate college list, containing a complement of “target” and “safety” schools. You’ll definitely want to do this in conjunction with an admissions professional (including your own high school counselor). For more, revisit our blog entitled: How Many Colleges Should I Apply to?

• Application Strategies
• College Search/Knowledge

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.

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ACS WRITING AWARDS

ACS serves as a first-year foundational writing class, for which students create a portfolio of their best work. As an important part of the program, each year we honor outstanding writing submitted by students from their Ancients 1000 and Moderns 1001 classes. Our award categories include analytical and creative writing. Work is submitted anonymously for review.

The Dr. John A. Doody Award

Named for the founder of the Augustine and Culture Seminar Program, the award recognizes the most accomplished thesis-driven essays focusing on one or more texts from the Ancients course. Essays which analyze pieces of art from other mediums (paintings, sculpture, music) which connect to course texts and themes are also most welcome.

The Veritas Award

At Villanova, we live by the virtues of Veritas -truth- Unitas - community - and Caritas -service. Augustine teaches us to seek the truth tirelessly, diligently, and passionately. This award honors students who seek to accomplish this task through writing about texts they encountered in their Moderns course. Essays which analyze pieces of art from mediums (paintings, sculpture, music) which connect to course texts and themes are also most welcome.

The Seamus Heaney Award

Irish poet Seamus Heaney, who won the 1995 Nobel Prize for Literature, was a great friend to Villanova's Irish Studies Program and a visiting scholar on campus. This award recognizes the most accomplished thesis-driven essays composed for an Honors section of ACS, focusing on one or more texts from the Ancients and Moderns course.

The Earl Bader Award

Former Villanova English Department Chair Earl Bader, PhD, served as the chair of the ACS Writing Awards committee at its inception, encouraging student originality of thought and self-expression. This award recognizes creative work integrally linked with ACS texts that demonstrates knowledge and insight. Seeking submissions that epitomize originality, have a strong sense of voice, include vivid imagery, and reflect creative risks. Essays from both Ancients and Moderns are welcome.

The Robert Russell, OSA Award

Named for Father Russell, who established the first Villanova graduate program in Philosophy and the annual "Saint Augustine Lecture," this award recognizes the most accomplished essay on St. Augustine's Confessions. Competitive essays in this category will engage with Augustinian thought in thorough, innovative and exciting ways.

Application Criteria

To apply for any of these awards, please review the following criteria before submitting:

• Applicant must be a currently enrolled/registered Villanova University student.
• Accepted electronic submissions format in Microsoft word only.
• One submission per student, per category permitted.
• Applicant's name   SHOULD NOT APPEAR  anywhere on the manuscript (committee review is anonymous).
• All citations must be correct and complete.
• Submission deadline is the Wednesday, May 30, 2024 at 12:00 p.m.

AUGUSTINE AND CULTURE SEMINAR

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CIVITAS THROUGH CARITAS

Civitas through Caritas: Cultivating Love, Cultivating Citizens is a summer program for rising high school seniors in the greater Philadelphia area.