jmu supplemental essay

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JMU Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are JMU's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into JMU and build a strong application.

School location: Harrisonburg, VA

This school is also known as: JMU, Madison, James Madison University

Admissions Rate: 78.3%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at JMU is 78.3% . For every 100 applicants, 78 are admitted.

This means the school is lightly selective . The school will have their expected requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores. If you meet their requirements, you're almost certain to get an offer of admission. But if you don't meet JMU's requirements, you'll be one of the unlucky few people who gets rejected.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

JMU GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.55

The average GPA at JMU is 3.55 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA. This school did not officially report its average GPA, but we've estimated it here using data from over 1,000 schools.)

With a GPA of 3.55, JMU requires you to be around average in your high school class. You'll need a mix of A's and B's, and very few C's. If you have a lower GPA, you can compensate with harder courses like AP or IB classes. This will help boost your weighted GPA and show your ability to take college classes.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.55, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

JMU hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to JMU will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

JMU SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1205

The average SAT score composite at JMU is a 1205 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes JMU Competitive for SAT test scores.

JMU SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1160, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1310. In other words, a 1160 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1310 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

JMU has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, JMU will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and JMU forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1160, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

JMU ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, JMU likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 26

The average ACT score at JMU is 26. This score makes JMU Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 23, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 29.

Even though JMU likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 23 or below, you'll have a harder time getting in, unless you have something else impressive in your application.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 23 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to JMU, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 23.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

JMU considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is lightly selective, you have a great shot at getting in, as long as you don't fall well below average . Aim for a 1160 SAT or a 23 ACT or higher, and you'll almost certainly get an offer of admission. As long as you meet the rest of the application requirements below, you'll be a shoo-in.

But if you score below our recommended target score, you may be one of the very few unlucky people to get rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of JMU here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Not accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $70
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office None

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language 3
• Social Studies 2

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes January 15 None
• Yes November 1 None

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 800 Harrisonburg, VA 22807
• Phone: (540) 568-6211
• Fax: (540) 568-3332
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in JMU, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to JMU.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than JMU. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for JMU, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for JMU, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If JMU is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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Don’t Sweat the Supp Stuff: Advice for Crafting Your Supplemental Essay

It can feel daunting to choose what to write about in your college application essays. How do you sum up the complex, dynamic individual you are with such limited space? 

The short answer: You can’t. But that’s OK. 

The goal of your application is not to share every detail of your multifaceted life. Rather, the process allows you to share your story with the admissions committee about what makes you a strong match for the institution. Each piece of the application reveals something about your academic experiences and personal journey that shows us how you might contribute to the Hopkins community. 

In some ways, the essays help tie together the rest of the application. They offer space for you to tell stories that represent the most important parts of your identity, which provide context for other components of the application. 

Let’s zero in on the supplemental essay . 

The supplemental essay portion of the application is specific to each school. Each institution has intentionally crafted a question (or multiple) to help determine whether a student might be a good match. We look for individuals who share Hopkins’ institutional values but will also bring unique experiences and perspectives to the community.  

Below is the supplemental essay prompt for students applying for entry to Hopkins in the fall of 2024:  

Tell us about an aspect of your identity (e.g., race, gender, sexuality, religion, community, etc.) or a life experience that has shaped you as an individual and how that influenced what you’d like to pursue in college at Hopkins. This can be a future goal or experience that is either academic, extracurricular, or social. (350-word limit) *

Picture your life in college. What does your community look like? Which aspects of your identity are most important for you to develop and nurture?  

Now jot down some thoughts about experiences or parts of your identity that have had a significant effect on your life. Maybe it’s a hobby you love, a cultural tradition, or an instance when you discovered something new about yourself. 

Once you have a list, think about how each of these will continue to play a role in your college life. Choose one to focus on and spend some time building it out. 

Keep in mind this essay is not an exercise in “tell us everything you know about Hopkins.” While it’s important for the admissions committee to see you’ve done your research and understand what Hopkins has to offer, simply listing what you hope to pursue on campus is only half of the puzzle. Be sure to connect the dots by explaining why you wish to pursue those things, and how they’ll help you remain connected to and grow in your identity. 

If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas or crafting your essay, reach out to your school counselor or an English teacher. They can help you brainstorm and ensure your piece is answering the prompt in a meaningful way. 

Happy writing! 

* An important note about the essay: In this essay question, we are looking for how an aspect of your identity or background has contributed to your personal story—your character, values, perspectives, or skills—and how you think it may shape your approach to college as a scholar, leader, or community member.

Please note that the U.S. Supreme Court recently limited the consideration of race in college admissions decisions but specifically permitted consideration of “an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life” so long as the student is “treated based on his or her experiences as an individual—not on the basis of race.” Therefore, any part of your background, including but not limited to your race, may be discussed in your response to this essay if you so choose, but will be considered by the university based solely on how it has affected your life and your experiences as an individual.

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Home — Application Essay — National Universities — Journey to Inclusivity: Exploring Diversity in JMU Supplemental

Journey to Inclusivity: Exploring Diversity in JMU Supplemental

• University: James Madison University

About this sample

Words: 628 |

Published: Jan 26, 2024

Words: 628 | Pages: 1 | 4 min read

Table of contents

Academic curiosity and personal growth, community engagement and leadership, unique perspectives and cultural sensitivity, envisioning a future at jmu, conclusion: an ongoing narrative.

In the tapestry of my educational aspirations, the threads of self-discovery are intricately woven through the fabric of my experiences. As I embark on the journey of JMU supplemental essays, I am compelled to reflect on the pivotal moments that have shaped my academic path and fueled my desire to contribute to the vibrant community at James Madison University.

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My academic journey has been a dynamic exploration, a continuous quest for knowledge that extends beyond the confines of a traditional classroom. Through rigorous coursework and extracurricular pursuits, I have cultivated a deep-rooted curiosity that propels me forward. JMU's commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity resonates with my own academic values.

One defining aspect of my academic journey has been my involvement in a research project focused on sustainable energy solutions. This endeavor allowed me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, sparking a passion for environmental science and sustainability. JMU's emphasis on experiential learning aligns seamlessly with my belief in the transformative power of hands-on experiences.

Beyond academic pursuits, my engagement in community service and leadership activities has been a cornerstone of my personal development. JMU's dedication to community involvement deeply resonates with my commitment to making a positive impact beyond the academic sphere.

As a leader in a local environmental awareness organization, I orchestrated initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practices within the community. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of collective action and the tangible change that can emerge when individuals unite for a common cause. JMU's emphasis on community engagement aligns seamlessly with my passion for effecting positive change on a broader scale.

My cultural background has played a pivotal role in shaping my worldview and influencing my approach to problem-solving. Through interactions within a diverse community, I have come to appreciate the richness of differing perspectives. JMU's commitment to inclusivity and diversity is a beacon that mirrors my own dedication to fostering understanding among individuals from varied backgrounds.

One transformative experience was volunteering with a global health initiative, where I collaborated with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds to address health disparities in underserved communities. This experience underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity in developing effective solutions and reinforced my commitment to promoting inclusivity in all aspects of my academic and personal life.

As I contemplate my future at JMU, I am drawn to the university's vibrant and collaborative community. The interdisciplinary nature of JMU's programs provides a unique opportunity to integrate my passion for environmental science with other fields, fostering a holistic understanding of complex issues.

JMU's emphasis on fostering well-rounded individuals aligns with my own belief in the importance of cultivating a diverse skill set. Whether engaged in collaborative research projects, participating in community service initiatives, or contributing to the cultural tapestry of the university, I envision an immersive experience that goes beyond the boundaries of a traditional academic journey.

As I navigate the landscape of JMU supplemental essays, I recognize that this essay is not merely a reflection of my past but a prologue to the narrative I wish to continue at James Madison University. My academic curiosity, commitment to community engagement, appreciation for diverse perspectives, and vision for a sustainable future converge harmoniously with the values embodied by JMU.

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I am eager to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of JMU's community, bringing with me a commitment to academic excellence, a passion for positive change, and an unwavering dedication to personal and collective growth. With gratitude for the journey thus far and anticipation for the chapters yet to unfold, I look forward to the possibility of enriching the JMU community and, in turn, being enriched by the experiences it offers.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, jmu supplemental essays.

Hey there! I'm starting my application for JMU and was curious if they have any supplemental essays or if it's just the Common App essay? Thanks for your help!

Hello! Over the past few admissions cycles, JMU has not required any additional essays for the general application process, so it's safe to assume that this policy will continue for future applicants.

However, it's essential to double-check their website or contact their admissions office for the most up-to-date information, as requirements often change from year to year. Additionally, if you're applying for a specific program or scholarship within JMU, there might be separate essays required for those applications. So, make sure to explore all the opportunities you're interested in and check for any associated essay requirements.

Best of luck with your application to JMU, and I hope this information helps you prepare!

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So JMU does not officially have an essay they do have have an additional information with the prompt "You may use your personal statement to highlight special interests, talents, goals or unique experiences (500-word maximum)". Should i do this or just submit my application leaving it blank.

James Madison University

Academic Programs

• Art & Design
• Communication
• Engineering
• Finance/Accounting
• Government/Political Science
• Health Science
• Liberal Arts
• Performing Arts
• Social Science
• Visual Arts

Student experience

• Disability Services
• Intramural/Club Sports
• Military/Veteran Services
• On-Campus Housing
• ROTC Program
• Study Abroad
• Undergraduate Research
• Veteran Fee Waiver

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

Completing your application is easy! STEP 1: Submit your application ($70 fee). Step 2:  Submit an official high school transcript, including any dual-enrollment courses you may be taking. For transcripts to be considered official, they must be sent through the Common App, or another secure provider such as Naviance/Parchment, e-Scrip Safe, etc., or by mail from your school. If sending by mail, please use the following address: James Madison University Office of Admissions – MSC 0101 100 E Grace Street Harrisonburg, VA 22807 Please note, JMU will not accept recommendation letters that arrive via Parchment, postal mail, etc.

To apply for transfer admission, you should have completed at least 24 credit hours post high-school graduation before you would start classes at JMU. If you’ll have completed less than 24 credit hours, please contact your regional recruiter . Priority is given to applicants with associate degrees, or at least 48 college credits. Competitive transfer applicants have at least a 3.0 GPA and have completed college course work in English, mathematics, social science and lab science.  For more information, please see the Transfer Applicants section of our website.

Additional Information

JMU graduates are far more than merely educated. Members of a fellowship of doers, they know how to make things happen. They’ve honed their ability to think critically. They’ve learned the importance of a strong work ethic and have become committed to and skilled at collaborating with others. Diplomas in hand, they leave campus determined to live lives of meaning and pursue careers of purpose.

Admissions office

100 South Main Street , MSC 0101 Harrisonburg , VA 22807 , United States of America

Phone number

540-568-5681

For first-year students

Admissions website.

www.jmu.edu/admissions/undergrad/index.shtml

Financial aid website

www.jmu.edu/financialaid/

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How to Write the Johns Hopkins University Essay 2023-2024

Johns Hopkins University has just one supplemental essay, which all applicants are required to respond to. However, while other schools you’re applying to may have more supplements, you want to make sure you dedicate enough time to this essay, as Hopkins is one of the most competitive schools in the country, especially for students interested in medicine.

In this post, we’ll break down how to brainstorm for and actually write your Hopkins essay, as well as common mistakes you want to be sure to avoid.

Read these Johns Hopkins essay examples to inspire your writing.

Johns Hopkins Supplemental Essay Prompt

Tell us about an aspect of your identity (e.g. race, gender, sexuality, religion, community, etc.) or a life experience that has shaped you as an individual and how that influenced what you’d like to pursue in college at hopkins. (this can be a future goal or experience that is either academic, extracurricular, or social). (200-350 words).

Brainstorming Your Topic

This prompt is a version of the common Diversity Essay , with the added layer of explicitly connecting your identity to one of your goals for your time at Hopkins.

The first thing to note is that the way colleges factor race into their admissions processes will be different this year, after the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in June. 

Colleges can still consider race on an individual level, however, so if you would like to respond to this prompt by talking about how your racial background has impacted you, you are welcome to do so.

You are also welcome to write about a wide range of other aspects of your identity. As the prompt itself highlights, an individual is more than just their race, gender, sexuality, and other attributes that typically come to mind when you hear the word “diversity.” We are also shaped by the communities we’re in, the hobbies we enjoy, our interests, and so on. So, if you are having a hard time coming up with a topic for this prompt, shift to that line of thinking. Here are some examples of less traditional topics that could work:

• The people you see every day while walking your dog before school
• A group sea kayaking trip you did one summer
• Your passion for the color purple

The main requirement for your topic is that it has “shaped you as an individual,” per Hopkins’ request. There is one other thing you want to consider, though. Namely, can you connect this aspect of your identity to one of your goals for Hopkins?

Note that this connection doesn’t have to be direct. If your parents immigrated to the United States from Korea, you don’t have to write about wanting to do research on international migration with Professor Erin Chung. You can, of course, if you genuinely are interested in that line of research. But the connection you make can also be more nuanced.

For example, say that some of your relatives still in Korea don’t speak English, but you have developed a relationship with them through visits to museums and famous architectural sites, as you have a shared love of art. These experiences have shown you the unifying power of art, which is a phenomenon you’d like to explore more through Hopkins’ Renaissance Art History study abroad program in Florence.

Although this connection may not be one your reader was expecting, it works, as you explain it in a clear, easy-to-follow way. Plus, this essay is on the longer side for a supplement. You have 350 words at your disposal, so you have plenty of space to draw more sophisticated connections.

Tips for Writing Your Essay

If you have done your brainstorming well, writing the actual essay should be pretty straightforward: you want to describe the aspect of your identity you’re focusing on, and then connect it to the goal you’ve chosen to highlight. As just noted above, you have room to work with, so there’s no need to rush anything.

The only real rule here is that the connection you’re drawing is explained clearly. For a rather extreme example, if you just said “I have family in Korea, which makes me want to study abroad in Florence,” your reader would have no idea what you’re talking about. So, just make sure you’re able to articulate the link you see, so admissions officers understand how we got from A to B.

If you’re having a hard time with that, maybe take a step back from your essay, and come back the next day with a clear head. Sometimes, spending too much time on an essay will bog you down, and make it hard to see where to go next. 

If you’re still having trouble the next day, you might want to return to the brainstorming stage, and either focus on a different aspect of your identity, or connect it to a different goal you have for college. There’s no shame in hitting rewind. Most students do at some point in their essay-writing process, as even topics that seem perfect at first can prove to be not quite right once you start trying to actually write about them.

Finally, like with any college essay, your writing will be stronger if you show, rather than tell. That means you want to rely on specific anecdotes and experiences to support your points, as that will make your essay more engaging. You can compare the two approaches below:

Telling: “I have quite a few family members still in Korea. Most of them live in Seoul, but some of them live in more remote areas.”

Showing: “I press my nose against the car window to get one last look at the glittering skyscrapers of Seoul, before my dad turns onto the winding, tree-lined road which leads to my uncle’s house.”

The information communicated is basically the same, but the showing approach paints us a picture, rather than reading us a list of facts like the telling approach. Because we are immersed in the student’s story, we feel much closer to them, and the whole point of college essays is to get admissions officers to understand who you are.

Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest potential pitfall here is answering the second half of the prompt (the “how that influenced what you’d like to pursue in college at Hopkins” part) in a way that isn’t specific enough to Hopkins. This subset of the prompt is essentially a mini “Why This College?” essay, which means you don’t want to just share a goal you have for college in general, but rather something you hope to achieve at Hopkins specifically.

The examples above show the level of specificity you want to get to. Contrast those examples with vague versions of the same goals: “At Hopkins, I hope to research migration from Asia,” or “At Hopkins, I hope to do a study abroad program that will allow me to pursue my interest in art.” These goals would be fine to share with a family member at Thanksgiving, but for Hopkins admissions officers, they’re too general, as these are things you could do in some form at plenty of other schools around the country. 

By going a level deeper, to a particular professor who does the kind of research you’re interested in, and a particular program that will allow you to study art, you show Hopkins admissions officers that you’ve really done your homework on their school, which gives them confidence you’re ready to hit the ground running when you arrive on campus.

If you’re not sure about how to get to this level of specificity, hop onto Hopkins’ website, and skim their course offerings, faculty directory, study abroad programs, club pages, and so on. Odds are, you’ll see something there that aligns with the general goal you’ve identified for yourself, which will take you from the big picture to the narrower focus you want.

Where to Get Your Johns Hopkins Essay Edited 

Do you want feedback on your Johns Hopkins essay? 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!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Jump to section, applying to jmu, changing your major, academics and campus life.

While there is no single academic program we can expect all students to follow, our strongest candidates choose rigorous secondary school curricula. Competitive applicants challenge themselves beyond high school graduation requirements in the core academic areas of English, math, science, social science and foreign language.

Because secondary schools vary by size, academic program and grading scale, we do not have rigid requirements. The majority of our incoming freshmen are ranked in the top third of their high school with 'A's and 'B's in core classes (math, lab science, foreign languages, English and social sciences).

JMU does not require the SAT/ACT to be part of your application file. If you choose not to submit standardized test scores, you will not be penalized in the admissions application, scholarship or Honors College review processes.

Our Admissions Facts page has the most recently reported mid-50 percent for both SAT and ACT tests.

Yes. We know that not all schools provide the same opportunities, but you should seek out a full and demanding college preparatory program.

The Admissions Committee uses your highest math and verbal scores from any test administration in reviewing your application for admission. JMU does not require the SAT/ACT to be part of your application file. If you choose not to submit standardized test scores, you will not be penalized in the admissions application, scholarship or Honors College review processes.

No. SAT II subject tests are not required for the admission process. Some majors and degrees at JMU have a foreign language requirement. If you are pursuing such a degree, we recommend that you take the SAT II Foreign Language which is used for placement purposes. Learn more about our Placement Policy.

We neither require nor grant personal interviews. However, if you visit the university and need to speak to a counselor to discuss a unique situation, we are more than happy to meet with you.

Mid-year grades may be requested to be reviewed with a student's application. While mid-year grades are not required, s tudies have shown that students who experience a drop in their senior year grades will often follow with poor grades in their freshman year of college, so it is always in your best interest to continue to do well through senior year. JMU does require an official transcript for all admitted students after graduation.  We reserve the right to rescind an offer of admission due to poor academic performance in the senior year.

No. We recognize that there are differences in the overall strengths of high schools, but we are most interested in how well our candidates have taken advantage of the resources available to them.

No, but there are advantages to you and to us if you submit your application materials promptly. We can let you know if any documents are missing or incomplete in a timely manner. Last-minute applications often look hurried and are more likely to be missing important information.

No. Because our decisions are made in the context of the entire applicant pool, it is not possible for us to predict your chances for admission.

No. There are no quotas for individual schools or communities.

Yes. We never know precisely how many students will accept our offer of admission, therefore, we invite a group of students to be on our unranked waitlist. The waitlist is the pool of applicants we consider if we are able to admit additional students to fill the class. The extent to which we use the waitlist varies widely from year to year.

Freshman Waitlist FAQs  /  Transfer Waitlist FAQs

Freshmen are typically admitted to James Madison University to begin in the Fall Semester. A small cohort of freshmen will be admitted for the Spring semester.

The majority of transfers enroll in either the Summer or Fall; however, a limited number of transfers are admitted for Spring. Spring transfer applicants with associate degrees and a cumulative college GPA of 3.00 of higher are given priority.

ALL applicants living outside of the United States who have U.S. citizenship, U.S. permanent resident status or dual citizenship must apply by appropriate deadline using our domestic application.

JMU has a non-binding  early admission process . Applications for Early Action are due Nov. 1 with decisions posted online in mid-Jan.

Applicants for admission to JMU will have their residency for tuition purposes determined based on the information provided on their complete Application for Virginia In-State Tuition Rates. This application is incorporated in our undergraduate applications for admission based on initial answers provided on your application.

You may review the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Guidelines for Residency Determination, which can be found at the following site:  https://www.schev.edu/financial-aid/in-state-residency/guidelines-for-in-state-residency-tuition

Once an application for admission is submitted you may be requested to provide additional documentation to determine your residency for tuition purposes. The Office of Admissions will notify you of your residency determination in communications throughout the application process.

Yes, you may appeal your residency decision. Please note that in-state tuition is not need-based. We follow the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia's Domicile Guidelines.

Prior to appealing your residency decision, please be sure you have sent in all residency items from your to-do list in MyMadison. Items may be sent to  [email protected] .

Applicants who have received an admission decision and wish to appeal their residency decision may do so by completing a residency appeal. This  residency appeal form is only for undergraduate students who disagree with their residency decision for their first semester at JMU. We may request additional information as part of the appeal process.

JMU students are encouraged to explore academic areas of interest. You can change your major any time between the application process and graduation. Please know that changing your major after your sophomore year may delay your graduation.

Check out our About JMU page for a rundown of quick facts.

Yes. With three levels of participation - Honors Scholars Track I, Honors Scholar Track II, and Senior Honors Project Track III - you can find the academic challenge to meet your needs. At graduation, your level of participation will be noted on your diploma and transcripts. For more information, please visit the  JMU Honors College web site.

We offer semester-long study abroad programs in five cities: Antwerp, London, Florence, Salamanca, and Edinburg. A faculty member-in residence accompanies each group for the semester-long experience. There are also dozens of short-term programs offered each summer offering a variety of courses, including general education courses. The Center for Global Engagement also works with students who choose an external study abroad program with another college or university if the destination of choice is not offered at JMU. Complete information can be found on the  Center for Global Engagement  web site . 

Not at all. Most students involved in performing arts here are majoring in fields unrelated to the arts.

All freshmen live in university-sponsored housing. We believe students get the most from the James Madison experience by living in the residence halls. After freshmen year, students may remain on or move off campus.

Freshmen are not permitted to have cars on campus. You certainly do not need a car to get around Harrisonburg. The Harrisonburg Transit is convenient and free to students. Parking on campus, however, is not always easy to find. Upper-class students pay a parking fee to register their car for on campus parking.

Safety should be a concern everywhere. The university has a strong public safety program that includes a full campus police force, lighted pathways, an escort service, campus cadets, emergency phones and residence halls that are locked 24 hours a day.

We have 18 Division 1 intercollegiate athletics teams, a growing list of club sports teams and a vibrant intramural sports program. Our adventure program has possibilities you may never have considered before. Our 147,000-square-foot University Recreation Center is amazing. Your game is here.  Read more »

Please call us at (540) 568-5681, or e-mail us at [email protected] .

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James Madison University Undergraduate College Application Essays

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

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College Application Essays accepted by James Madison University

New sickness infects high school students nationwide suzanne lassise, james madison university.

ELLICOTT CITY, MD--- It is 12 AM and parents everywhere believe their teenagers are snug in bed. However, instead of sleeping, their kids are wide awake, studying every ounce of information they could be tested on in a matter of hours. Believing...

How Swimming Has Affected My Life Rebecca Papritz

Giving up my weekend nights for swim practice was something I was used to by the time I reached high school. Swimming, I felt, was my niche, and with that niche came many sacrifices. Yet, for all the “hardships” that came with it, I earned the...

The Performance Changed the Performer Anonymous

Two flamboyant characters sat in the center of the first row; I saw their hands dancing wildly in the air while I tiptoed quietly into the theatre so as not to pop their bubble of eccentricity. However, the heavy door’s loud click as it closed...

Unique Eyes Grace Sheridan

Eye color was evenly divided in my family before I was born: two sets of blue eyes and two sets of green eyes. My birth would have traditionally tipped the scales, but I was born with one blue eye and one green. This anomaly was originally...

A Transformative Experience Anonymous

As the sunlight began to dim, my panic rose. The street signs were incomprehensible, and any request for assistance only resulted in a barrage of unfamiliar German. I found myself hoping for a rapid rescue, yet I knew that I needed to find my own...

Good ole days Jake Galante

"I think I'm ready to go home now," I inform my roommate Patrick, yet again, as we mix cement and shovel rocks for hours upon hours under the beating Mexican sun. It is Tuesday of our week-long mission trip to Nuevo Durango, and I already feel...

The Pastor's Daughter Lauren DeRoco

I nervously sat down to the computer and started typing. Creating an Evite wouldn’t seem like a big deal to most people, but it was to me. Always having been too shy to reach out to my teammates from soccer, I had never been included in their...

The Art of War Goes to Chick-fil-a Andrew Branson

It is 7:00 on Saturday morning and I walk into the Chick-fil-a kitchen. Attempting to prepare my mind for work, I enter my daydream of war to get through the upcoming seemingly endless morning. My ingredients suddenly turn into weapons and armor;...

The Type of Doctor I Want to Be Jordan V. Oliver

After completing an hour of training with the overworked nurses of Johnston-Willis Hospital, I acquainted myself with Holly, a frail ninety year old woman who, along with fighting terminal cancer, was recovering from a stroke that also impaired...

Recent Questions about James Madison University

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

Johns Hopkins University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 2

You Have: 

Johns Hopkins University  2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 300 words.

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why

Tell us about an aspect of your identity (e.g. race, gender, sexuality, religion, community, etc.) or a life experience that has shaped you as an individual and how that influenced what you’d like to pursue in college at Hopkins.? (This can be a future goal or experience that is either academic, extracurricular, or social).  300 word limit.

JHU is purposefully leaving this question super open-ended, so you can write about any facet of your identity or background that has been most integral in shaping who you are. Admissions also wants to know how this aspect of your life experience has impacted what you want to gain from your time attending Hopkins. Start by thinking about your identity. You can write down some words that you would use to describe yourself or work backward by thinking about what you hope to pursue at Hopkins, then consider how that relates to your identity, background, or community.

Maybe you dream of becoming a surgeon, specializing in gender-affirming surgery, to combine your interest in science and medicine with your passion for helping members of the trans community. Perhaps you don’t know what you want to major in yet, but you hope to expand your horizons at JHU as a first-generation student, bringing what you learn back home to share with your family and community. As long as you put aside time to brainstorm freely and edit meticulously, we’re confident you’ll impress admissions with your response!

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