lehigh university application essays

Lehigh University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Early Decision: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 1

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Lehigh University 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 150 words; 1 essay of 200 words; 1 essay of 300 words

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

Please Note: All suggestions for answering the following questions are reflective of the opinion of CEA, and do not represent the views of the Admissions Department at Lehigh University.

How did you first learn about Lehigh University and what motivated you to apply? (150 words)

The first part of this question should not be rushed through. Really think back and try to pinpoint the moment that Lehigh appeared on your radar. Maybe a family member went there, and you’ve known about it since you were a kid. Perhaps it’s a popular college for students in your city. Write your truth. And don’t forget to answer the second part of the question: What motivated you to apply? Did the campus tour blow your mind? Does Lehigh have a major that few other schools in your region offer? (In this case, you’ll want to be mindful about how much information you share here, since the very next prompt asks about your academic goals.) No matter your story, invite the reader into your mind and take them on your journey from exploring options to applying. Overachievers will include a sentence or two about their vision for the next four years as well! 

How will the unique combination of college, program, major and/or 4+1 program that you selected above allow you to achieve your educational or professional goals? (200 words)

Admissions already knows why you decided to apply to Lehigh, and now they want to know more about how their unique academic offerings will help you to accomplish your goals. Take some time to meditate on what you hope your life will look like after Lehigh—we’re talking 10-20 years in the future. Once you have an idea of what you hope for that person to be like or do on an average day, invite admissions into your vision and show them how a Lehigh education is a pivotal step (or three) on the ladder of success to get there. Regardless of your vision, your response should cite programs, majors, and classes that Lehigh offers. Anyone can say they hope to become a revered journalist or an impactful teacher, but not everyone is going to do their homework to show admissions that they’ve thought through exactly how they will get there. Of course, admissions isn’t going to hold you to your blueprint, but they do want to see that you’ve given not only your education some serious thought, but your professional goals as well.

We believe the quality and richness of a Lehigh education lies in us being a community of individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas and viewpoints—a community where every individual is able to bring their full selves to every conversation and everything they do. We are committed to fostering a campus experience where everyone is empowered to share a broad range of perspectives in all of our campus learning environments.

With this in mind, choose one of the following prompts and respond (in 300 words):, what would you want to be different in your own community (local, school, religious, academic, etc.) or the broader global community to further principles of equality or equity.

This prompt is for those who think big and have a strong commitment to the principles of equality and equity. Think about all of the communities you belong to (as tiny as your school’s Anime Club and as large as the entire Earth) and consider how different they could be with a few major equitable changes. Maybe your Robotics Club requires members to pay fees for competitions, and you worry this is a barrier to entry for lower-income students. Perhaps your state school board passed new guidelines that you feel jeopardize students’ ability to pursue their extracurricular interests. Maybe you wish governments across the seven seas prioritized combating climate change, since the people who will be impacted the most are those who have the fewest resources available to them. Once you identify and tell a story about the community issue you wish could be different, bring your response back to Lehigh: what will you do with this knowledge as a Lehigh student? How would you try to foster these improvements on campus or by using a Lehigh education?

What factors have most shaped who you are and what you believe today? You might discuss an obstacle that you have overcome or an experience that has inspired you.

This prompt and the next one seem very similar on the surface, but each focuses on something different. Here, Lehigh is asking you to discuss pivot points in your life and how those have shaped you into who you are today. For those of you who have those moments ready to go, great! For everyone else, take a few minutes to trace back over your life so far. What memories stand out as more vivid than the others? What events, conversations, or mentors nudged your life onto a slightly different path? Do some soul-searching to articulate your values, traits, and beliefs. For instance, maybe you grew up with a single parent and developed an early sense of responsibility. Or perhaps you took a Japanese class that sparked a love of Japanese art and a potential major. The term “factor” is broad enough to encompass many different influential people, traditions, or experiences, so keep your mind open as you brainstorm. 

Share with us a part of your personal background, perspective, experience or academic interest that has shaped you as a person and that would uniquely add to the Lehigh community.

This is a more classic Diversity Essay. The focus here is on what makes you unique and how that uniqueness would enhance the Lehigh student body. For this question, think about times when people have been intrigued by or curious about your identity, skillset, or background. Maybe your twin passions for economics and art have turned you into your school’s go-to expert on NFTs. Perhaps you moved from a rural area to a major city and got your classmates excited about sustainable farming. What do you hope to share with others about your lived experience? How will you incorporate this element of your identity into your college experience? Lehigh wants to foster an inclusive student body where everyone feels empowered to be themselves. So how will you help achieve this goal?

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How to Respond to the 2023/2024 Lehigh University Supplemental Essay Prompts 

Cait Williams is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cait recently graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Journalism and Strategic Communications. During her time at OU, was active in the outdoor recreation community.

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Lehigh University is a small private college located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Lehigh, known for rigorous academics and premiere research, opened its doors in 1865. With an array of study abroad options and a beautiful campus located within an hour and a half of both the Pocono Mountains and New York City, Lehigh offers students numerous ways to grow beyond academics. If this sounds like the place for you, let us help you put your best foot forward on the Lehigh supplemental essays!

The Lehigh University supplemental essay prompts

Lehigh requires two supplemental essays on their application. This means there’s a lot of writing to do, but also more than one chance to stand out .  Their application may take more time than some others, but that comes with advantages. Lehigh’s prompts offer you the opportunity to really show them who you are. Take your time and don’t get overwhelmed. Let’s jump in!

How did you first learn about Lehigh University and what motivated you to apply? (150 words)

While the first Lehigh prompt looks like one simple question, it’s important to note that they want you to answer two things. First, how did you learn about Lehigh? Second, what pushed you to apply?

Let’s start with the first part, how you first heard about Lehigh. This part of the prompt shouldn’t be terribly difficult to answer. Colleges know that students may hear about them in a number of different ways, so there is no right or wrong answer, there’s simply the answer that gives them the most information about you. 

If you heard about the school through an alumnus, mention how you know that individual. If it was through multiple people that you heard about the school, tell them which interactions finally pushed you to look more seriously into the school.

The second half of the prompt is another straightforward question about you. Now that you’ve told them how you heard about them, they want to know what pushed you to the next step and actually apply. Show Lehigh that you “did your homework” here!

Here are a few questions to consider:

• Is Lehigh well known for the major you want to pursue? 
• Do they offer great athletic opportunities?
• Is your mom or dad an alumnus and you want to follow in their footsteps? 

It can be easy to answer this half of the prompt with facts about the university, but Lehigh already knows that information. You might mention their clubs and organizations, certain research opportunities they offer, or travel abroad options, but that doesn’t tell them much about you unless you make the connection between their resources and your goals. Use the “why were you motivated to apply section” to give a glimpse into who you are and what you’ll bring to Lehigh University. 

Questions to consider:

• Do you want to join a club or organization and try something totally new and outside your comfort zone? 
• Why are you interested in a particular research subject? Do you know a person or situation that might be improved by that research?
• What do you hope to gain by traveling abroad? Will you be the first person in your family to leave your country, state, or city in doing so?

If you’re still feeling stuck, take some more time to research Lehigh to see what you like about them. Remember, the goal of this question is to get to know you a little better. Don’t overthink it. Be honest and consider what you want them to know about you. 

Also see: What looks good on a college application?

“We believe the quality and richness of a Lehigh education lies in us being a community of individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas and viewpoints—a community where every individual is able to bring their full selves to every conversation and everything they do. We are committed to fostering a campus experience where everyone is empowered to share a broad range of perspectives in all of our campus learning environments.

With this in mind, choose one of the following prompts and respond:

1. What would you want to be different in your own community (local, school, religious, academic, etc.) or the broader global community to further principles of equality or equity?

2. What factors have most shaped who you are and what you believe today? You might discuss an obstacle that you have overcome or an experience that has inspired you.

3. Share with us a part of your personal background, perspective, experience or academic interest that has shaped you as a person and that would uniquely add to the Lehigh community” (Max 300 words)

If you’re feeling intimidated by this prompt, that’s okay. This question will definitely require more time and effort than the first one. So, let’s break it down!

Lehigh clearly states several of their values within the above statement. They want to see some of those same values reflected in your response. Again, the admissions officers are trying to get a good sense of “who you are” to see if their school is the best fit for you. If you don’t have the same, or similar, values, it might indicate that there is another school that may suit you better, which is okay. So, before we start writing, let’s examine their values and your own. 

Questions to consider

• What values does Lehigh think are important?
• Do you think those values are also important?
• What other personal values or principles do you think are important?

The next step in this prompt is choosing which question to answer. Take a minute to read through your options and see if any stand out to you. If there is a question that makes you feel particularly passionate, go with that one! Showing passion is a great way to let people see who you are by showing what you value. 

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Your first option is fairly straightforward. Take an inventory of the communities you are involved in or a part of. It doesn’t matter if the community is small, or large, as long as it’s something that you are a part of in some way, or that you have a personal connection to. Think about how that community and their history. Is there anything that sticks out to you that they’ve unfairly had to deal with? If so, this is your place to talk about it! 

Before we move on, there’s just one more note we’d like to make about this first option. This question asks you to speak about something that you would like to be different, which means you don’t need to necessarily write out a plan for how that thing will change. You may propose some ideas, but the greater purpose of this prompt is to show that you pay attention in your communities and you have a desire to improve your community. 

Don’t miss: How to respond to the Common App essay prompts

Options two and three

The next two questions are similar in structure, though what they are asking are two separate questions. Each option asks you a question that begins with you and asks you to translate what you’ve said about yourself into something. Below we’ve written out in detail what we mean a bit more. Start at point A and slowly think through how your answer connects to point B.

Remember, the goal of these questions is for Lehigh to get a better understanding of who you are. So, take a deep breath and remember that goal. You’ve got this!

Don’t miss: How many schools should I apply to?

• If you think Lehigh is the school for you, start thinking about and writing your application now
• If possible, schedule a tour at the university to get to know more about it
• Make sure you are aware of all the deadlines for your application period to be sure that you don’t miss any important deadlines
• After you’ve applied, your final step is to wait and hear about the status of your acceptance, and regardless of the response, respond to Lehigh to acknowledge that status

Frequently asked questions about Lehigh University 

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Lehigh University Supplemental Essays Guide: 2021-2022

Not sure how to respond to the Lehigh supplemental essays?  CollegeAdvisor.com’s guide to the Lehigh University supplemental essay questions will show you how to write strong Lehigh supplemental essays and increase your chances against the Lehigh University acceptance rate.

If you need help creating Lehigh supplemental essays, create your free account or schedule a no-cost advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.

Lehigh Essay Guide Quick Facts:

• The Lehigh University acceptance rate is 50% – U.S. News ranks Lehigh University as a more selective school. 
• Lehigh University ranking is #49 in National Universities.

What is Lehigh University known for?

Lehigh is a leading research university with a beautiful campus. Lehigh University is known for its strong engineering programs. It provides hands-on learning with an emphasis on building student leaders. The Lehigh University acceptance rate is 50%, and the Lehigh University ranking is #49.  

Showing demonstrated interest can increase your chances against the Lehigh University acceptance rate. So, you should write Lehigh supplemental essays that include details about what programs at Lehigh interest you. This guide will help you write Lehigh supplemental essays that help you stand out from the crowd. 

What is the acceptance rate for Lehigh University?

The Lehigh University acceptance rate is 50%. Don’t let the Lehigh University acceptance rate discourage you, though.  

Since Lehigh admissions are competitive, you should consider attending a campus tour or special event to show your interest. If you show DI and write strong Lehigh supplemental essays, then you can overcome the Lehigh acceptance rate!

What is Lehigh University ranked?

The Lehigh University ranking is #49. According to US News, the Lehigh University ranking and Lehigh University acceptance rate make Lehigh a more selective school. 

Because of the Lehigh acceptance rate and its test-optional policy, well-written Lehigh supplemental essays can considerably increase your admissions odds. 

Does Lehigh have any supplemental essays?

Yes. All applicants must complete three Lehigh supplemental essays in addition to the required essay for the Common App or Coalition App .

We’ll discuss how to complete each Lehigh University supplemental essay in this Lehigh supplemental essays guide. 

Are the Lehigh essays important?

In a word: yes. Lehigh has moved to a test-optional policy for the next two years. Without test scores, your Lehigh supplemental essays matter even more. You should, therefore, do all you can to make your Lehigh essays count!

Since the Lehigh University acceptance rate is 50%, strong Lehigh University supplemental essays can heavily impact your admissions result. So, for your best shot against the Lehigh University acceptance rate, don’t discount your Lehigh supplemental essays.  

How do I write Lehigh University supplemental essays?

All applicants must complete three Lehigh University supplemental essay questions. In this guide, we’ll discuss how to address the Lehigh University essay prompts. 

Lehigh University Supplement Essay – Question 1 (Required)

With the understanding that some students will change colleges at Lehigh after the first year, please briefly describe why you chose to apply to the first-choice college or major that you listed above. (200-word limit)

The first Lehigh University supplemental essay prompts you to discuss your chosen college or major. This prompt lets you show why you care about your field, so make sure to highlight your passions and use specific details. 

Note that the term “college” refers to one of the five colleges at Lehigh University. Your major is housed within that college.

The terms “college” and “university” are often used interchangeably. However, the Lehigh University supplement essay question does NOT ask your reasons for choosing Lehigh.  

Choosing a college or major

At this point, you’ve likely chosen a college or major. However, if you’re feeling unsure, that’s okay! If you want help picking a field of study, check out our tips for choosing a college major.

This Leigh University essay prompt recognizes you may change your major after your first year. So, while you have listed a first choice, Lehigh knows that things may change.

Providing a reason

Next, the Lehigh University essay prompts you to explain your reasons for your choice. This is a great chance to share your passions. It’s also a perfect place to show your knowledge of Lehigh’s programs. 

Look at the following example:

My experiences as a student athletic trainer exposed me to the effects of concussions on the human brain and led me to an intrigue of how the human brain works. Studying in the College of Arts and Sciences to earn a BA in Behavioral Neuroscience…

Be sure to identify a specific college and major in your Lehigh supplemental essay. Also, share a story that shows your passion for your area of interest. While your readers know you may change your major, showing your commitment to a given field can really boost your essay! 

Remember, the Lehigh University acceptance rate is just 50%. So, you should do all you can to help your Lehigh essay stand out. 

Essay Draft Key Questions: 

• Do you identify a specific college and major in your Lehigh University supplement essay?
• Does your Lehigh University supplement essay provide a reason for your area of interest?
• Have you demonstrated your passion for your field in your Lehigh University supplement essay? 

Lehigh University Supplement Essay – Question 2 (Required)

How did you first learn about Lehigh University and what motivated you to apply? (150-word limit)

Lehigh University prompts like these, while seemingly simple, require care. So, don’t discount this Lehigh supplement essay. Your response should include where you first learned about Lehigh and why you applied.  

Tell the truth

Be honest in your response. If you learned about Lehigh University from a school counselor, share that. If you learned about Lehigh University from an alumnus’s visit to your school, share that. This Lehigh University essay prompts you to share what drew you toward Lehigh.  

Try to avoid a vague response such as “I heard about it from some friends,” since this doesn’t show your specific connection to Lehigh. This Lehigh University supplement essay question isn’t looking to trick you. Instead, your readers genuinely want to know where you first learned about Lehigh.  

Connect to your interest

Motivated applicants are usually successful students. So, show what motivated you to apply to Lehigh! Also, try to discuss specific aspects of Lehigh. While this Lehigh University supplement essay might seem simple, including details will help your essay stand out. 

Lehigh supplemental essays like these let you explore Lehigh’s programs, so use your essay to show why you love Lehigh. Additionally, showing DI in this Lehigh University supplement essay can help you stand out. Since the Lehigh acceptance rate is relatively low, you should approach your essay with attention and care. 

Think about the following questions:

• Have you been able to visit the campus ? 
• Have you spoken with an admissions officer ? 
• Is there a particular program that excites you? 

In other words, what do you know about Lehigh that excites you? Is it their entrepreneurial mindset ? Their focus on creative inquiry ? Or, perhaps your passion lies in their methods more than a particular program.  

If you explain how you learned about Lehigh and why you want to attend, your response for this Leigh University supplement essay is sure to stand out!

• Have you stated how you learned about Lehigh in your Lehigh University supplement essay? 
• Does your Lehigh University supplement essay explain your why you want to attend Lehigh? 
• Does your essay include details that show your knowledge of Lehigh’s programs? 

Lehigh University Supplement Essay – Question 3 (Required)

A compelling characteristic of Lehigh’s community is that our students want to be actively engaged in their learning, their community, and the world. Our students look to make a difference and have a real-world impact. We expect our community to challenge your viewpoint, your naturalized assumptions, and the way that you see the world around you. Lehigh University is committed to being an anti-racist institution. By this, we mean actively speaking out and addressing acts of racism, racist comments, racist practices, policies, and procedures. What would you want to be different in your own country or community to respond to issues of inequality, inequity, or injustice? (300-word limit)

The longest of the Lehigh University supplemental essays asks you to think about three things:

• What is an injustice in your country or community that moves you?
• Where do you see this injustice occurring?
• What do you want to do to rectify it? 

I dentify an issue

This Lehigh University essay prompts you to consider Lehigh’s anti-racist stance. So, you may want to think about an example of injustice that relates to racism. 

If you need help choosing an issue, consider some of our tips for generating ideas. Additionally, you may think about any issue that you have read about or experienced that ignites your desire for justice.

If you’re struggling to come up with a topic, think about these questions:

• Is there an injustice that you want to change? 
• Has something happened at your school or in your hometown that demands justice? 
• Is there a system or institution embedded with inequality that you want to transform? 
• Is there an issue that fires you up to make change? 

Your Lehigh University supplement essay could relate to any of these questions. For the first part of your Lehigh University supplemental essay, you should explain your chosen injustice as it manifests in your country or community. Then, you should explain how you would remedy this injustice.

As you write your Lehigh supplement essay, be careful not to tell anyone else’s story. While your Lehigh supplemental essay can show your care for those from different backgrounds, your essay should also reveal how you relate to the world.

Create social change

After you’ve identified your injustice, your Lehigh University supplement essay must include what change could resolve this issue. Your Lehigh University supplemental essay should also explain how you can be a part of that change. 

For instance, let’s say that you want to change the representation of Latinx communities in the news media. First, identify and explain the issue. Then, express how your future goals would help you foster change: 

Ex. With my BA in Journalism and a minor in mass communications, I know that my education, partnered with the work of the Association of Latino Professionals of America at Lehigh empowers me to make changes in the representation of Latinx communities in the news….

You can also draw on previous activism in which you have taken part: 

Ex. During my senior year of high school, I used my experience on the yearbook staff to create a spread titled “Latinx Innovations” which highlighted specific contributions that Latinx members of our local communities had made to the history of our high school…I want to continue this activist journalism at Lehigh…

Additionally, try to be as personal, specific, and honest as possible. If you describe your issue and show how you’d help fix it, your Lehigh University supplemental essay is sure to shine! 

Essay Draft Key Questions:

• Have you identified a specific injustice in your Lehigh University supplement essay? 
• Does your Lehigh University supplement essay show your knowledge of how that injustice impacts your community or country?
• Do you highlight your passion to be a change-maker in your Lehigh University supplement essay? 

Lehigh University Supplemental Essays – Final Thoughts

The Lehigh essay prompts may seem overwhelming, especially when you think about the Lehigh University ranking. However, don’t let that discourage you! With these tips, you can write a strong set of Lehigh supplemental essays and maximize your chances against the Lehigh University acceptance rate.

This 2021-2022 essay guide on Lehigh was written by Sasha Litzenberger . Want help crafting your Lehigh supplemental essays? Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.

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How to Write the Lehigh University Application Essays 2016-2017

Check out the lehigh university application essays for 2017-2018.

In eastern Pennsylvania, about an hour north of Philadelphia, lies one of the oft-nicknamed “Hidden Ivies,” Lehigh University. Commonly touted for its engineering school, its prime location near booming business hubs (like New York City) and a reputation for excellent research programs have made the university an epicenter of academic excellence.

An undergraduate student population of 5,062 and acceptance rate of 34.3% also make this mid-sized school among the most selective in the country — meaning you should take great care in writing your supplemental essays if you hope to study at Lehigh next fall.

For reference, the middle 50% of accepted applicants had SAT critical reading, math, and ACT scores of 610-700, 660-750, and 30-33, respectively. Additionally, Lehigh keeps track of the interest that applicants demonstrate in the school through things like campus visits and informational sessions and considers these points when making admissions decisions. If possible, definitely visit the Lehigh University campus ! If this is not possible due to logistics or expense, consider getting in contact with your region’s admissions officer to build a relationship.

Beyond demonstrating interest, though, one important step towards gaining acceptance is an exceptional set of essays. Here, we’ve detailed how to write successful and effective responses to each of Lehigh’s essay prompts.

Lehigh University Essay Prompts

What do you and Lehigh have in common? (250-350 words)

There are two definitive ways to approach this prompt. The first being your average, “We both value diverse perspectives,” or “We place an emphasis on interdisciplinary education.” This would fall under the traditional approach category because there is little creativity injected into the writing.

Although you could be pointing out valid similarities between your values and Lehigh’s, this method won’t make your essay stand out in the admissions office. Think about the thousands of other application essays that will be written with almost identical language and wording. So while there is nothing inherently wrong with taking the prompt at face value, there is also a more abstract, distinct way to respond .

For example, starting off with a sentence along the lines of, “Like Lehigh, I aspire to be covered in snow on a blistery winter day in January,” will not only make your reader do a double take, but it allows you to delve into one of your interests that may not have come out in your application yet (like skiing, hiking, etc.). Make sure to then connect these back to the university though and how you look forward to pursuing them on campus.

We can’t stress enough the importance of being unique in the college admissions process, so when possible, always try to be a little out-of-the-box with your prompt interpretations. Don’t go off the deep end by any means, as there is a fine line between creative interpretation and total misinterpretation, but strictly adhering to a prompt that only has eight words to begin with isn’t necessary. In fact, we encourage you to be liberal with your understanding of the question.

Please select one of the following prompts (150-250 words)

A. Imagine that you just completed your visit to Lehigh University. What would you tweet about us and why?

Your response to this question could easily overlap with the previous “What do you and Lehigh have in common?” prompt, so if you choose this option, be careful not to repeat information or reasoning. This question also reveals the school’s assumption that you have visited the school and shows they are concerned with demonstrated interest (which we talked a bit about earlier on).  

For those not on Twitter (or in case you’ve forgotten), the character limit for a tweet is 140 characters, so there is little time for a full-blown profession of love for Lehigh or a lengthy story about your awesome tour guide. While this might sound unconventional for a college essay, do keep in mind that you don’t need to pay complete attention to English grammar conventions. But you should be direct, purposeful, and not unnecessarily wordy. Due to the character limit, you also only have time to discuss one (maybe two) things about your visit, so choose wisely!

As far as possible topics, professors, research opportunities, and other primarily academic motivators to attend the school should have been referenced in the previous prompt. While you can definitely include some of these, understand that this question is more geared towards things like the student body, the atmosphere, extracurriculars, or even the physical campus itself — normal, more reactionary topics that you might actually tweet about in real life. Think along the lines of this: “Smiling faces. The Baker Institute. Trees as far as the eye can see. I could spend years here.”

The simplest way to structure your response would be to begin with your tweet, because including it later on will probably result in a clumsy introduction or just awkward wording in general. This also eliminates the need for extra words since you’re only afforded 150-250 to begin with.

B. Describe your favorite “Bazinga” moment.

If you’re not familiar with the television show The Big Bang Theory , needless to say, this prompt might not make much sense. We’ll do our best to explain the concept of a “Bazinga” moment, but another prompt that doesn’t take so much time on the front end to understand might be a better choice if you’re a newcomer to the world of Sheldon Cooper.

With that being said, Sheldon, one of the central characters on the show, is so engrossed with science and his work that his social skills are almost nonexistent — making for some incredible, sarcastic humor. He often exclaims “Bazinga!” after a joke or prank, and the word could technically double for “Gotcha!” or “Fooled you!”

So in terms of your Lehigh essay, you can choose to reference your love for the show and the best “Bazinga” moment you have witnessed while watching, but you will then have the task of connecting it to your own life. Maybe the show actually inspired you to learn more about the actually Big Bang, or perhaps weekly viewing parties were a bonding activity for your group of friends. Whatever it is, don’t forget to include the ever-important aspect of self-reflection.

Alternatively, you could explain a “Bazinga” moment in your own life. However, considering they’re directly referencing the show, it wouldn’t hurt to at least briefly mention The Big Bang Theory . Do you love pulling pranks? Do you, like Sheldon, have a passion for dry humor? These are all solid ways to approach the prompt.

C. If your name were an acronym, what would it stand for and how would it reflect your strengths and personality?

Our apologies to applicants with long names. But jokes aside, this prompt gives you plenty of leeway both structurally and in terms of content. You could choose to format your response with the letters of your name alongside the left-hand margins and your explanations located directly to the right, and if you feel comfortable with your poetic abilities, writing the essay in the style of a poem would definitely be one way to stand out.

Similar to the “five characteristics” prompt, think of words or adjectives to describe yourself that are both revealing and not always expected. For example, if one of the letters in your name is a “C,” don’t be afraid to use “Cake-lover” as one of your personality traits. The trick is finding a balance between humor and serious insight. Admissions officers don’t want to be bored, but they also don’t want to read an essay that is 100% sarcastic. So if “cake-lover” is one of your examples, counter it with a more serious descriptor next.

D. In your opinion, what are the five characteristics of a successful person?

A little more serious in nature, the obvious answer to this question would be words like “dedicated,” “ambitious,” or “intelligent.” But keep in mind a generic essay that explicitly answers the prompt might not even reveal anything about you. While your approach to the prompt might allow admissions officers to infer certain things — do you take risks, read between the lines, etc. — it’s still important to include a personal story or explanation at some point.

For this prompt specifically, one option is to write about how you have exhibited these characteristics in your own life or, alternatively, times when you could have employed them. If you believe having a knack for conflict resolution is one trait of a successful person, write about the time in your life that taught you this. Was it an argument with a friend? Standing up for yourself in class? Learning to compromise? Whatever it is, talk about yourself in addition to just the characteristics!

A slightly more creative way to approach this question would be to use adjectives not commonly chosen to describe leaders or successful individuals. Say you want to write about being self-motivated. Let’s face it, that’s a pretty generic-sounding character trait. Instead, you could describe this idea by stating, “To me, all successful people are runners.”

Now I know what you might be thinking, I know plenty of exceptional, goal-oriented industry leaders who don’t enjoy an afternoon run after work . Chances are, your admissions officer could be thinking the same thing, but you undoubtedly will spark their curiosity.

The key here is that you’re not using the term “runners” literally. Running for sport implies a drive to succeed, a desire to push past obstacles and boundaries — like Kathrine Switzer’s unstoppable appetite to prove her critics wrong when she was the first female marathon runner in 1967. These are traits that most definitely make for a successful person.

Like the example above, choose “characteristics” that have multifaceted meanings and that you can connect to historical events or times in your own life. As crazy as this sounds, you could even make up your own words if you have the context and explanation to back them up. Remember, your goal is not only to meet expectations, but also to stand out in the admissions process.

E. You’ve just reached your one millionth hit on your YouTube video. What is the video about?

Given the prominence of viral videos and social media in our generation, the question’s place on Lehigh’s application should come as no surprise. By far the most versatile prompt on this list, Lehigh is begging you to let your weird side out. While you still want to come across as a serious applicant, this is one question where one of your goals could be to make the admissions officer chuckle, perhaps even remember your application out of the hundreds of others.

The key to using humor in college essays is not just to be funny or sarcastic, but to allow your wit to speak about your personality and the traits that will make you an ideal fit for Lehigh. To give you a more concrete (and semi-embarrassing example), let’s say your favorite past-time as a toddler was dancing outrageously to Shania Twain and your parents happen to have countless home videos of your “performances.”

After first describing why your childhood moves deserve to go viral, you could delve into how that outgoing, self-confident attitude has translated into your current self. If you’ve become more reserved over the years, how has that affected your life, relationships, or studies, positively or negatively? What can be learned by approaching challenges (or life in general) with a carefree attitude?

While obviously this is one very specific example, we want to impart on you how important it is to write supplementary essays with depth and personal reflection. Understand that even simple, seemingly straightforward prompts shouldn’t just be taken at face value. Make sure your choice of prompt reflects the traits you want to present in your application.

As with any college application essays, bear in mind that the amount of time you spend on them will directly reflect your desire to attend the school (in the mind of an admissions officer). Considering Lehigh has such comprehensive additional essay requirements that will no doubt test your creativity, this is not an area of the application to rush through. Brainstorm, plan, and appropriately outline before you even begin writing. And most importantly, express your individuality!

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

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ilLUminating Your Path to College

Join us on campus to learn more about the college search and application process! With two sessions, one for rising sophomores and juniors and one for rising seniors, you’ll get important information and guidance for wherever you are in the process.

ilLUminating Your Path to College 201

For rising seniors, friday, july 28, 2023.

Rising seniors, we’re excited for you to spend the afternoon with us on campus! We have prepared an afternoon where prospective students will take an in-depth look at the college application, network with Lehigh University departments and engage in meaningful conversations with current Lehigh Students. Check-in will begin at 12:30 p.m. EDT and programming will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m. EDT with an information session that covers topics including:

• How to Stand Out in Your College Essay
• Should I Interview for College?
• Creating a Squad and Navigating Letters of Recommendation
• What is the Difference between Regular Decision and Early Decision?

Next, visitors will participate in an interactive case study of previous Lehigh applications. Here you can learn about how each part of an application plays an important role in Lehigh’s holistic review.

After an in-depth look at the college application, programming will shift gears to allow prospective students the opportunity to envision what their life as Lehigh students would look like. We encourage visitors to engage with representatives from offices across campus at our Lehigh University Campus Expo. Afterwards, we will host a Student Panel where visitors can ask current Lehigh students about their experiences at Lehigh.

Those registered for “ilLUminating Your Path to College 201” will be invited to attend an optional Admissions Information Session and Asa Packer Campus tour the morning of the event.

Event details including a full agenda and parking information will be emailed on Monday, July 24, 2023.

REGISTER HERE >

ilLUminating Your Path to College 101

While this program for rising sophomores and juniors has passed, please reach out to your Admissions Counselor with any questions as you continue along your college search journey. Be on the lookout next spring for details regarding next summer’s ilLUminating Your Path to College 101!

Lehigh University Undergraduate College Application Essays

These Lehigh University college application essays were written by students accepted at Lehigh 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 Lehigh University

Building passion nicholas malone, lehigh university.

Throughout my life, my eyes have been drawn to the sky. When I was a child I would look up in speckled black night and gaze at constellations, unable to comprehend the extent of the universe, wondering if it ever ended. By day I would look to the...

A Simple Smile Merudh Vijay Patel

"Merudh, get up, get up!" It was four in the morning, and I was four years old. The heart-pounding sound of my dad's voice woke me out of a deep sleep. As I peeked through my bedroom door, I saw my father bolt out of our house with my mother in...

Piano Conquest Anonymous

It was a crisp, clear January day in Park Ridge, New Jersey, a few miles from the middle of nowhere. Before me stood an imposing sight: Schubert’s Impromptu. With a length of fourteen pages and a required foundation of meticulous technical skills,...

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...

Just Like a Soccer Team David Matthew Lamp

A good university is, in many ways, a lot like a strong soccer team. Just as Lehigh does not have a single objective of teaching information, so also the aim of a strong soccer team is not only to win. Aside from teaching in the classroom, a...

Cohesive Campus Scott Patrick Novick

A baseball player my entire life, I often find myself comparing the sport to different things in life. In my eyes, a college campus is comparable to a baseball team, and doing well in a college setting is similar to winning a baseball game.

Coming Full Circle Anonymous

He reached out, unfurled his hand, and looked up at me with what can only be described as a look of pure desperation. I reached into my pocket and pulled out a crumpled five-dollar bill and handed it to the man. "It's a cold one," I remarked. "God...

A Common Thread Anonymous

Since I was a toddler, my father has taken me sailing on the Long Island Sound. As I grew older, I began to ask questions. How do the sails move the boat forward? Why isn’t the boat pushed over by the wind? After ten years of asking questions, I...

A Fairy Tale Anonymous

It was 2 AM. As my fingers moved across the keyboard, words sprang onto the surface of my laptop screen like drops of tar. Word count revealed that I had only written 500 words today. Unacceptable. Stephen King averaged 2000 words a day. I had to...

Lehigh Essay Anonymous

One afternoon I received a letter from a friend, a current student at Lehigh. Nestled inside the letter was a newspaper article regarding initiatives undertaken by a group of Lehigh students to provide fresh, organic food to those living in the...

Common App Essay Anonymous

I felt an unequivocal sense of community when I gazed at my dinner plate one night at Chewonki and acknowledged that the beets, potatoes, and lettuce on my plate were plucked from the earth by me and my best friends. The hours that we expended on...

My Hands Anonymous

My hair used to fall out because I thought I was strong, my heartbeat used to waver because I thought I was in control, and my hands used to shake because, for the first time, I thought I was beautiful.

My hands have done great things. I used my...

@Home Anonymous

Two dogs with bladder problems, one screaming six year old, and one painful, fifteen-hour drive. After suffering through traffic jams, vehicle smog tests, and no privacy, my parents decided to uproot our San Diego routines and begin a new life in...

Holocaust Memorial Day: an Underrated and Under-recognized Holiday Anonymous

It’s May 5, a typical Thursday. Your alarm rings. You sit up, check your phone, and spot a Facebook viral video on Holocaust Memorial Day. It's not an ordinary day. Plugging in your headphones, you brace yourself and hit play.You see a black...

A Slow Start Anonymous

She runs so gracefully, her arms swinging back and forth, her legs flying, barely even touching the ground as she laps the girl in front of her. I am that girl—not the graceful one but the slow one who runs like a beanbag chair, hunched over and...

Summer Camp Anonymous

Despite what he meant to me, I won’t tell you his name; that privilege was signed away as part of camp counselor protocol.

I moved myself under the rock wall. The dense heat rising from the tire pieces covering the floor paired with the green...

Quality, Quantity, and Inclusive Leadership Noor Baban

I always thought of living life through the saying “quality over quantity”, but when dealing with problems like child poverty, or teen suicide, you need quality and quantity. This was what got me into running the Kids in Action Network Non-Profit...

Challenging the Classroom Anonymous

The best way to learn is through blood, sweat, and a little bit of vomit. Prior to my relatively new experiences in EMS I always believed that the classroom was where you learned and the real world is where you apply your skills. 150 hours of...

Roll The Dice! Anonymous

Everyone in Darte Hall knew my set of house rules. Number tokens are applied to the board randomly, twos and twelves are equal, and your turn is forfeited if you roll the die outside of the box lid. The game The Settlers of Catan has become a...

Christopher Robin is the Best Movie in the World Jessica Fatzinger

Christopher Robin is the best movie in the world. Despite the poor acting and the animation that made the animals look sad and dreary, a movie is impressive if it can make the viewer feel an emotion, and Christopher Robin exceeds in that realm....

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This is a pretty broad question for this short space.

what do they look for in havung something in common with their university

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"Growing faster than his buddies, Dan soon became the tallest boy in class." What should this sentence say?

I think the problem is with the modifier "growing". It confuses us between Dan and his buddies. I' might write something like,

"Dan was growing faster than his buddies and became the tallest boy in school."

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My favorite thing about Lehigh is the people, hands down. The people you meet here want to see you do well in all aspects of life. They will celebrate your success and help you get back up when you may fall down. Keagan Casey, 2024

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Home — Application Essay — University — Lehigh University

Lehigh University Admission Essays

My interest in pursuing a master's degree at the lehigh university.

‘The scientist explores what is, the engineer creates what has not been’ – Theodore Von Karman The world has become an engineering nexus and engineering application and usage can be seen in almost all division of action, including energy, telecommunication, healthcare, logistics, production, transportation, manufacturing…

Finding My Melody

As a musician, I have always been drawn to the sound of the piano. It is an instrument that can convey a wide range of emotions and has the power to move people to tears or to make them dance. I have always admired pianists…

Lehigh Essay: College Admission Essay Sample

One afternoon I received a letter from a friend, a current student at Lehigh. Nestled inside the letter was a newspaper article regarding initiatives undertaken by a group of Lehigh students to provide fresh, organic food to those living in the proclaimed “food desert” of…

Just Like a Soccer Team: College Admission Essay Sample

A good university is, in many ways, a lot like a strong soccer team. Just as Lehigh does not have a single objective of teaching information, so also the aim of a strong soccer team is not only to win. Aside from teaching in the…

The Inspiration Within

As I sit down to write this essay, my thoughts wander to my childhood, which is where my passion for literature and language began. My family had moved to a new town, and I had a hard time making new friends. My parents, in an…

A Common Thread: College Admission Essay Sample

Since I was a toddler, my father has taken me sailing on the Long Island Sound. As I grew older, I began to ask questions. How do the sails move the boat forward? Why isn’t the boat pushed over by the wind? After ten years…

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, lehigh university supplemental essay.

Hi, I'm planning to apply to Lehigh University in the future and I heard there's a supplemental essay as part of the application. What kind of questions do they usually ask? Any advice on what to focus on when writing it? Thank you so much!

Hey there! You're right about Lehigh University having supplemental essays as part of their application. While the prompts may change from year to year, the intention behind the question is generally to learn more about your personality, values, and fit with Lehigh's community.

My advice for writing the Lehigh supplemental essays is to focus on your genuine interests and how they align with the University's offerings. Make sure to do some research on Lehigh's programs, resources, and values to provide specific examples of how you see yourself thriving there. This could include things like clubs, research opportunities, or unique courses. It's also crucial to demonstrate your personal growth and the impact you hope to have on the community.

For a detailed breakdown of Lehigh's current prompts and advice on how to respond to them all, check out this CollegeVine article: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-lehigh-university-essays

Remember to be yourself while writing the essay, as admissions officers are interested in getting to know the real you. Good luck, and I hope this helps!

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• 17 May 2024

Reading between the lines: application essays predict university success

Analysis of more than 40,000 university application essays found that gradual transitions between chunks of text correlated with higher marks. Credit: Dusan Stankovic/Getty

Aspiring students who wrote content-rich university admission essays were more likely to end up with higher grades in their classes 1 .

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Nature 629 , 731 (2024)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-01396-8

Berger, J. & Toubia, O. PNAS Nexus 3 , pgae163 (2024).

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Fall 2025 UGA Essay Questions

  david graves        may 22nd, 2024 in blog.

For First Year students applying to UGA for Fall 2025, we will keep the same longer personal essay (250-650 words) as before, using the essay prompts from the Common App . The shorter UGA specific essay (200-300 words suggested) topic will also remain the same as last year, with the following essay prompt:

“ The transition from middle to high school is a key time for students as they reach new levels of both academic and personal discovery. Please share a book (novel, non-fiction, etc.) that had a serious impact on you during this time. Please focus more on why this book made an impact on you and less on the plot/theme of the book itself (we are not looking for a book report).”

• FYI – We are not restricting you to the exact years of 8th-9th grades, but rather the general timeframe of the middle to high school transition, which can extend somewhat further than one year on each end. Feel free to use your discretion in your choice of the timeline focused on the shift to your high school years.

As always, we also share an essay from an enrolling First-Year student that we believe shows great writing skills:

As a middle-schooler on the brink of entering high school, I was like lost cattle entering a vast social and academic wilderness. In the center, a winding, sun-soaked desert path stretched far into the horizon, beckoning my gaze with its promise of adventure and discovery. Enter The Alchemist and its magnificent idea of the “Personal Legend”– a life goal so lofty that it made locating my locker on the first day of high school appear easy. Forget about the difficulty of making new hobbies or friends; the content from this novel sure played an essential role in determining my ideology related to pursuing my future.

The protagonist enthusiastically praised the significance of believing in one’s dreams, which led my younger self down the correct path. Generating profits after extensive hours of work through my business, navigating changes in learning after COVID-19, and confronting adversity due to my darker skin color all presented difficult periods where persistence and faith were important in progress. Although self-belief was a crucial aspect of pushing through difficult times, it also motivated me to be more confident. Taking risks, from soloing in my 8th-grade jazz band to giving my crush a cringeworthy love letter, changed my belief in embracing adversity.

Furthermore, the book’s emphasis on interacting with people from different backgrounds, cultures, and belief systems mirrors my journey into the real world. Whether developing a dancing board at a Purdue summer camp or a calculus Halloween graph, collaboration enforces the ability to work with others who may share different ideas. Diverse backgrounds boosted my understanding, tolerance, and empathy while increasing my engineering career readiness. Not only was The Alchemist a great book, but it enforced critical systems that I use until this day to succeed in life. The Alchemist played an essential role in instilling new concepts I needed as an adolescent. “And when you want something, all the universe conspires you to achieve it.” Thank you, Paulo Coelho.  – Josh W, Collins Hill HS.

• This essay gives us insight into the student’s feelings and thoughts, and he shares his ideas through descriptive word choice. This is an excellent essay, but please know that we are not expecting this level of writing from the applicant pool overall. This essay example is meant to show our applicant pool how to express themselves through examples, personal growth and emotion. When we are reviewing essays, we are looking more at the student’s voice coming through and less on technical writing skills.

Tags: admissions , essays , file reading , freshman admission

• Lehigh Launch

Frequently Asked Questions

General faqs.

What is Lehigh Launch?  

Lehigh Launch is a unique place-based, academic program that takes you to some of the world's most exciting areas for the fall semester of your first year at Lehigh. Lehigh Launch students participate in either the Semester in the American West, set in western Wyoming and Santa Fe, New Mexico, with additional study in Colorado, or the Semester in Chile, set in Santiago with additional study throughout Chile. You will live and learn with approximately 12 to 14 other students while taking academic courses that earn 16 credit hours toward your degree.

Does Lehigh Launch start and end at the same time as the regular Lehigh semester?  

The start dates for Lehigh Launch vary by location. Students in the Semester in the American West typically travel to Wyoming one week before the start of on-campus classes, with one week of remote learning prior to traveling west. Students return home just before Thanksgiving.

The Semester in Santiago, Chile dates align closely with the start and end of fall classes on campus.

Who is eligible for Lehigh Launch?  

Lehigh Launch is a program for first-semester college students, and all first-year applicants to Lehigh are eligible to apply. Lehigh Launch draws students from all four of Lehigh’s undergraduate colleges as well as from Lehigh’s intercollegiate interdisciplinary programs. Transfer students are eligible for Lehigh Launch if the coursework is compatible with progress toward their degree.

How big is the program?  

The Fall 2023 cohorts will consist of approximately 12 to 14 students.

How much does Lehigh Launch cost?  

The program tuition is the same as on-campus tuition, and the program fees and other expenses total the same amount as room and board, fees and other expenses for on-campus first-year students. Students are responsible for their travel to and from the program location at the beginning and end of the semester; Semester in the American West students are responsible for some clothing costs for their backpacking course. Financial aid applies to Lehigh Launch as it would a regular semester, and students may apply for additional scholarship support for travel and equipment costs.

How should I decide between the Semester in the American West and the Semester in Santiago, Chile?  

You should think about the locations and program content, and which would appeal to you most. There are important differences.

The Semester in Santiago, Chile is based primarily in a large, cosmopolitan city. Students will be living in a Spanish-speaking country and taking a Spanish course as their humanities course. While in Chile, students will be staying with families in home stays.

The Semester in the American West spends half the semester on the edges of the Wyoming Wind River Range, away from major population centers. The group spends several days traveling through Colorado, visiting national labs near Denver, connecting with Lehigh alums, and visiting smaller cities, before transitioning to Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico. Students and Lehigh faculty live at a common location. A three-week wilderness backpacking expedition in Wyoming’s renowned Rocky Mountains, led by the National Outdoor Leadership School, is a highlight of the program.

About the Academic Program

What courses will I take?  

Each student in the program takes a regular course load of 16 credit hours that are designed specifically for Lehigh Launch. These include the Lehigh Launch core course, four credits of humanities coursework, four credits of social science coursework, and four credits of natural science coursework. These courses fulfill typical general education requirements that nearly all Lehigh students must fulfill as a part of graduation requirements. Specific course offerings may change each year; the program administrators can provide more information about the upcoming year’s courses.

Who will teach my courses?  

At least two of your four Lehigh Launch courses will be taught by Lehigh faculty members. Your other courses may be taught by Lehigh faculty or by faculty affiliated with our program partners.

Will there be an orientation program at the start of Lehigh Launch?  

Yes, there will be an orientation program on site at the start of the program.

Do my Lehigh Launch grades count toward my Lehigh GPA?  

All Lehigh Launch courses are Lehigh courses, and as such, they apply to your GPA just as on-campus courses do.

Will I be able to register for spring classes at the same time as my peers on campus?  

Yes, you will register online, in the same way and at the same time as your on-campus peers. Your Lehigh Launch faculty and your first-semester advisors on campus will help advise you with course selection and will help connect you with additional advising resources on the main campus should you need them.

Who Can Participate?

Lehigh Launch is open to students pursuing any major in any of Lehigh’s colleges. There are particular considerations that can vary by college or program, however.

I’m applying to the Rossin College of Engineering – can I participate in Lehigh Launch?  

Yes—and many engineering students are particularly interested in Lehigh Launch as the program provides a study-away experience prior to advanced coursework within the major. Due to the sequencing of engineering courses, however, engineering students will need careful advising to stay on track, and summer coursework may be required for some engineering majors to graduate in four years. If engineering students arrive with exam credit (e.g., AP, IB, A-Level) or transfer credit in at least two of the typical first-year courses for engineering students (i.e., calculus, chemistry, English composition, or physics), they are in a good position to stay on track without summer coursework. Calculus is particularly critical for first-year engineering students; Lehigh Launch students who take first semester calculus (i.e., Math 21) in their spring semester will very likely need to take second-semester calculus (i.e., Math 22) during the summer after their first year in order to stay on track to graduate in four years.

Can pre-med and other pre-health students participate in Lehigh Launch?  

Yes. Students planning to apply to medical school will be able to complete the recommended coursework to be prepared for the MCAT (which includes the courses required by medical schools) by the end of their senior year. That will allow them to take the MCAT in the spring of their senior year or the summer after. (If accepted to medical school, these students would have a "gap" or "glide" year between graduating from Lehigh and matriculating to medical school---a typical scenario for Lehigh applicants and applicants nationally.) Some pre-med students may prefer to take several prerequisite courses in Lehigh summer sessions, which could accelerate their pre-med track.

I am a varsity athlete -- can I participate in Lehigh Launch?  

Varsity athletics requires a significant amount of time, and participation rules vary by sport. We encourage athletes to talk to their coaches before committing to Lehigh Launch. We also ask that you let the Lehigh Launch program know that you are a varsity athlete, so that we can properly advise you on both academic and non-academic issues related to Lehigh Launch.

Can I participate in LUSSI if I participate in Lehigh Launch?  

Due to the schedules of both programs, students may not participate in both LUSSI and Lehigh Launch.

Can I participate in PreLUsion if I participate in Lehigh Launch?  

Due to timing of Launch orientation and travel during PreLUsion week, students will not be able to participate in PreLUsion.

I am an international student – can I participate in Lehigh Launch?  

International students may participate in Lehigh Launch. Applicants to the Semester in Chile program should see that location’s FAQs for passport and visa information; they do not need to have a passport and visa in hand at the time they apply to Lehigh Launch.

Can I participate in Lehigh Launch if I wish to participate in fraternity or sorority recruitment?  

Yes. First-year students at Lehigh cannot join a fraternity or sorority until their second semester. Panhellenic recruitment and IFC fraternity recruitment both take place in the spring semester. Cultural Greek Council chapters do not have specific periods for accepting new members. So as long as you meet the standard eligibility requirements , including academic requirements and student conduct expectations, Lehigh Launch students can participate in fraternity and sorority recruitment upon the start of the spring semester. Women who participate in the Panhellenic recruitment process will need to miss certain portions of the Lehigh Launch transition programming in order to rush, but they will be required to complete all other Lehigh Launch programming in January.

Spring Semester on Campus

Will I have a hard time making friends when I start my spring semester on Lehigh’s campus?  

Lehigh Launch students typically say that they have good transitions to campus, and appreciate arriving on campus with a cohort of friends. The January Summation and on-campus orientation provide an opportunity for students to expand their peer group before starting classes, and Lehigh Launch students are particularly well suited to strike out to join clubs and find the activities that suit them best.

Where will I live on campus when I return for the spring semester?  

Lehigh Launch guarantees on-campus housing for program participants, and works to place participants in housing with other first- and second-year students.

Admissions FAQs

What does Lehigh consider when selecting Lehigh Launch applicants?  

We are looking for students who are curious about themselves and the world around them, who have an independent spirit, and who have outstanding leadership potential. Students should be willing to challenge themselves, be self-reliant, and have the maturity to thrive in a program that will stretch them personally as well as academically.

What should I consider when deciding whether to apply?  

• Are you comfortable exploring new places and cultures? Lehigh Launch students will be in environments that will offer cultural and personal challenges every day.
• Can I thrive without some of the support programs offered at Lehigh’s home campus? Though Lehigh Launch faculty and staff are experienced teachers and mentors who will support their students, Lehigh Launch cannot provide the same level of programming that offices such as Academic Transitions, the Center for Academic Success, Disability Support Services, and the Writing Center provide to first-year students.
• Do I have ongoing physical or mental health concerns that could be exacerbated by the stress of the program, or that could make it difficult for me to thrive? In either program, there is help for students who become sick or need medical assistance, and there are many medical resources in the cities and towns where students will live. But Lehigh Launch students will not have access to an on-campus health center or an on-campus counseling center. In addition, students participating in the Semester in the American West will spend three weeks in remote locations that are several hours from health care clinics.

How do I apply for Lehigh Launch?  

The Common Application allows you to indicate that you wish to apply for Lehigh Launch, and asks you to select your program (American West or Chile). The Common Application will also link to the Lehigh Launch supplemental application that you must complete.

Since Lehigh Launch is a special program, does applying to Lehigh Launch help or hurt my chances of being admitted to Lehigh?  

Lehigh Launch is not a “conditional admit” program for students who would not otherwise be admitted to Lehigh. At the same time, it certainly does not hurt your chances of being admitted to Lehigh. Lehigh Launch looks for students who are intellectually curious and well suited to the program. As a special program, it has a competitive selection process, but your high school grades are likely not the most important part of your application.

What is the timing of Lehigh Launch interviews, and if I am accepted to Lehigh Launch, when must I decide to commit to the program?  

Lehigh Launch students may apply to Lehigh via Early Decision I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision plans. All Lehigh Launch finalists must complete a finalist interview via Zoom.

Early Decision applicants will have about a week following their Lehigh Launch interview to decide whether they wish to begin their Lehigh experience through Lehigh Launch, or whether to withdraw from the Lehigh Launch selection process and return to the admission pool for an on-campus fall semester. If Early Decision applicants decide to remain in the Lehigh Launch applicant pool, and are accepted to Lehigh Launch, then that acceptance is a binding admission that routes you to a Fall semester in Lehigh Launch and a spring semester on Lehigh’s Bethlehem campus. Students accepted to Lehigh via Early Decision, and who did not apply to Lehigh Launch as a part of their Lehigh application, may still apply to the program for later consideration for the program, with the Regular Decision applicants.

Regular Decision applicants to Lehigh who are selected as finalists for Lehigh Launch are interviewed on a rolling basis beginning in March. Those who are accepted to Lehigh Launch have their space held in the program for approximately ten days; deposits submitted after that period are accepted on a space-available basis.

Will Lehigh Launch consider applications to the program after Lehigh’s May 1 deposit deadline?  

Lehigh Launch will consider late applications on a space-available basis.

Can I use my financial aid for Lehigh Launch?  

Yes, your financial aid applies to the cost of a Lehigh Launch semester exactly the same as an on-campus semester.

What is the deposit fee for Lehigh Launch?  

Lehigh Launch requires a $1,000 deposit fee that is separate from the $500 deposit toward your admission to Lehigh. Both deposits are credited toward your Lehigh tuition, and both deposit requirements can be waived in cases of financial need. Both deposit fees are not refundable. Once you submit your Lehigh Launch deposit fee, you will not be able to change your plans to spend the fall semester on Lehigh’s campus.

What should I include in my Lehigh Launch application?  

We encourage you to think specifically about your program location of choice, and explain why you wish to pursue this academic living-and-learning program. The review team will be able to read your Lehigh University application, so we discourage writing a Lehigh Launch essay that overlaps with your Lehigh University application essay.

Does Lehigh Launch require additional letters of recommendation or references?  

Your Lehigh Launch application does not require additional letters of recommendation, but applicants will need to provide the name, title, email address and phone number of a teacher or guidance counselor who knows them well and is able to speak by phone about a Lehigh Launch finalist’s maturity, independence, and social and academic preparation for the program. The reference you list for Lehigh Launch may be someone who submitted one of your letters of recommendation, or it may be someone else. We will not call your references until after your Lehigh Launch interview.

Can I withdraw from Lehigh Launch and switch to an on-campus semester after I have committed to Lehigh Launch?  

In most cases, students who withdraw from Lehigh Launch will have their admission moved to the spring semester. Students may withdraw from Lehigh Launch and matriculate on campus in the fall semester only under very particular circumstances such as a serious medical situation; in this case, the student must submit a petition and documentation requesting the withdrawal. The circumstances warranting withdrawal must be determined to be exceptional and unforeseen in order for a student to receive a deposit refund and switch to Lehigh on-campus classes for the fall semester.

Semester in the American West students who have a health situation that prohibits them from participating in the co-curricular backpacking expedition at the start of the program will join their cohort in Wyoming when the backpacking component has concluded.

Can parents visit during the Lehigh Launch program?  

Because of the nature of the program, there is no time for family visits during the Lehigh Launch semester. Families may visit their children at the end of the study-away component (end of November), and arrange for their own travel and accommodations.

American West-specific FAQs

Can you tell me more about the courses in the Semester in the American West?  

In addition to the four-credit integrative core course, which fulfills the first-year seminar requirement for CAS and IDEAS students, students will take several two-credit courses. These courses let us take advantage of specific opportunities in Wyoming (first half) and Colorado and New Mexico (second half). The two credit-courses in Fall 2023 are:

• Conservation Biology and Ecology in the West (natural science with lab)
• History of the American West (social science)
• Shamanistic Rituals and Sacred Survival in the West (humanities)
• Water in the 21st Century West (natural science with lab)
• Politics and Identity in the American West (social science)
• Policy Challenges of the American West (social science)

Tell me more about the outdoors component of the Semester in the American West. Do I need to be an athlete to participate?  

Our program partner, the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), works with participants who have extensive experience outdoors, as well as those who have never been in the wilderness at all. With experienced instructors guiding the group, the NOLS components of the semester provide a great opportunity to introduce you to new opportunities and develop your leadership potential.

And you should know that the NOLS expedition is very challenging. There will be a range of experience and fitness levels among your classmates, but it is important that all students commit to a regular, rigorous fitness routine in the summer to prepare for the Semester in the American West. Your group will backpack between two and eight miles daily as part of the Rocky Mountains hiking expedition, wearing backpacks typically weighing 45 pounds and will learn to camp comfortably when nights can be very cold. You will be better prepared for the wilderness expeditions if you are generally fit, and have familiarized yourself with NOLS programs and expectations .

Are there specific physical and other requirements for the NOLS backpacking component?  

Yes. NOLS has essential eligibility criteria that are a requirement of its program. These criteria are essential because they protect the health and safety of both individual participants and the group.

I’m an international student. Am I a good fit for the Semester in the American West?  

The Semester in the American West is a great way to get to learn about the United States and form friendships with American students. Because there are not supplemental courses for non-native English speakers, participants should be very comfortable with their English reading, listening, and speaking skills to thrive in the program.

What should I know about the NOLS requirements regarding COVID-19 vaccinations?  

Lehigh requires students, faculty and staff to be fully vaccinated and boosted, with the exception of approved medical or religious exemptions. You can read more about Lehigh’s vaccination requirements here . While Lehigh has a process for religious and medical exemptions from the vaccination requirement, NOLS requires participants to be fully vaccinated, and NOLS does not have an exemption process; all participants must be fully vaccinated.

Santiago, Chile-specific FAQs

Do I need to speak Spanish?  

No prior knowledge of the Spanish language is required to participate in this program, but an understanding of some Spanish will be helpful for cultural and practical reasons. All classes, with the exception of your Spanish class, are conducted in English. You will be placed in a Spanish class that fits your ability – from complete novice to Spanish proficiency.

Where will I live?  

Students will be placed in centrally-located homestays, vetted and overseen by our partner IES Abroad in Santiago. Students will have private, furnished rooms. Families will provide three meals per day, laundry service, linens, pillows, towels and WiFi. Language level and other student needs will be considered when assigning students to a homestay.

I don’t have a passport – will I need one for the Semester in Santiago, Chile? What about a visa?  

Yes, you will need a passport for this program. Your passport must remain valid at least six months after the end date of the program. Lehigh and IES will support students in applying for passports and visas as needed.

Can you tell me more about the courses in the Semester in Santiago, Chile?  

Students will earn 16 credit hours through classroom-based and experiential learning, while fulfilling distribution requirements in natural science, social science and the humanities, as well as the first-year seminar requirement. Details on courses will be announced in late 2023.